Post Marketing Reports August 2003

Sun, 31 Aug 2003 10:55:09 -0400 by Guest, #3407
I began taking levaguin on Wednesday. Thursday morning, upon awaking, I noticed tht my achilles tendons seem tight and sore, Friday moring, 10 minutes into my typical 3 mile jog, I pulled up with pain in the back of my thigh that was a either a strain, pull, tear or cramp. At any rate I could not continue to run. Saturday afternoon, getting off the couch, I felt the same sensations in the back of my leg, behind the right knee. Today, Sunday, these pains have now extended to my right calf.

After reading the experiences of other Levquin users, I believe that these muscle and tendon problems stem from taking the drug. Because I must cure the condition for which the drug is perscribed, I will continue with the recommended dosage for a while and hope that the side effects go away.

However, I would caution others, particularly those who are acustom to regular, stenous exercise, that this medicine may lead to damage of their muscles and tendons.

Fri, 29 Aug 2003 20:34:28 -0400 by jody, #3401
I was at the end of my rope when I looked for Levquin side effects tonight. I have been on Levaquin 500 q.d. for a UTI that I've had for months. I had a cystoscopy nearly a month ago and my urologist put me on Levaquin 500 for 30 more days. I did not have any of the common side effects listed but started having horrible joint pains right after starting on it but thought it was something else - I also have cardiomyopathy and insulin dependent diabetes and thyroid, etc. etc. Finally saw my internist yesterday who did rheumatoid panel and sed rate and called today saying my sed rate was high but rheumatoid panel was fine and offered nothing further. Thank goodness for this web site! I'm not taking another Levaquin EVER! Thanks. Jody

Wed, 27 Aug 2003 23:05:30 -0400 by Guest, #3386
Oh, I can't believe how lucky I was to find this site. I have been on Levaquin for the past 6 days...My legs feel like they weigh 100 pounds each, my joints hurt all over, even the bottoms of me feet are killing me!! and the insomnia... I also feel very uncoordinated. I am stopping it now, and I did get a prescription, but no warning about these side effects. I am allergic to PCN and Sulfa drugs, this was prescribed to me for a sinus infection. I would rather have the sinus pain than this awful feeling.
No nausea or other intestinal problems as yet.

Wed, 27 Aug 2003 00:39:15 -0400 by Guest, #3378
My father who is 82 was given Levaquin after a Urinary Tract Procedure. After 3 doses became very sick. He was taken to the E.R. in an ambulance with heart palpitations, trouble breathing, sweating, loose stools and confusion. At the hospital the doctor put him on an I.V. drip of Levaquin and wrote out a prescription for my mother to fill for more Levaquin which she administered to him herself.
When I arrived at the hospital he was able to relate to me that his symptoms began while taking the Levaquin. I checked the internet and found hundreds of testimonials against this drug. Needless to say I had the drug discontinued immediately and got him out of that doctor's care and out of the hospital. His health has improved greatly, but he is depressed, tired, and is not himself at all.
This man was an intellegent and vibrant person who danced the fox trot at his grand daughter's wedding just a month ago.
Today he admitted to me that his abilty to reason and remember things has been coming and going. He insists that it all began with his taking the Levaquin. I, for one, believe him one hundred percent.
My question is how can we get this poison out of his system?
I am a great believer in natural medicines and therapies. Has anyone tried anything that has helped.


Tue, 26 Aug 2003 21:53:21 -0400 by Guest, #3377
This is the second time I have been prescribed Levaquin for my accute sinues and bronchitis. It really works for me, but I have experiences dizziness and a continuous light head feeling. Also very depressed and an itch all over my body. I took Levaquin 500 for 10 days and concluded treatment a week ago, but still continue feeling light headed and depressed.

Tue, 26 Aug 2003 11:15:01 -0400 by Guest, #3373
I posted a message about 2 weeks ago regarding my side effects to Levaquin after taking it for 6 days. Mine were: headache, nausea, trouble swallowing, insomnia, horribly depressed and my head was in a constant "fog".

Anyway, I wanted to report that I'm feeling MUCH better. Hang in there - it DOES ware off! By the way, I was told that if you have these types of reactions to AVOID all poultry products and caffine (chicken and other foul contain small amounts of the drug found in Levaquin).

Mon, 25 Aug 2003 23:53:28 -0400 by Guest, #3371
"it is your responsibility to ask about potential side effects, interactions with other drugs you are taking, etc. It is also your responsibility to read the detailed informa tion that comes with every prescription from a pharmacy that lists possible side effects"

Excellent advice but with one FATAL flaw. The majority of the information recieved from the physician and/or the pharmacy is wholely inadequate regarding the side effects of these drugs. (the majority of them are not even listed) When asked about the potential side effects the physicians routinely state that these are safe and effective drugs with minimum side effects. Nothing could be further from the truth. The monographs indicate once again that such events are rare and occur at rates approaching 1%. Once again, not true, in reality they rapidly approach 27%. One recent study indicated 65% (Cipro when given for prostatitits) When such events manifest again the medical community denies any and all such assocation stating that they have never heard of such things, even though it has been reported in medical journals for almost forty years. Of the hundreds and hundreds of adrs reported within this forum you will not fnd ONE that is not a known, listed and published adverse event. It has been only through forums such as this that such knowledge is shared. You certainly will not find such information readily available from your physician or from your pharmacist. Herein lies the problem. Nor will you find it within the monographs as such warnings are couched in antiquated descriptions such as uticaria (itching) and other greek and latin terms for common medical conditions. This has been done deliberately to mislead the general public regarding such events. It is not lack of common sense that these victims are lacking, it is the trust that they have placed in their physicians to have an intimate knowledge regarding toxic chemotherapuedic agents that they hand out like Halloween candy. Such ignorance is rampant and to expect a physician who routinely fails to recognize, treat and report such events to be of any value during such a discussion is asking far too much. Patients are routinely handed free samples of these drugs, with no risk vs benefit discussion ever taking place, no monograph or any other information provided by the physician, and then told when such events manifest "..it cannot be the drug.." are instructed to continue taking it. The majority of the medical community has no idea what a fluoroquinolone is and what drugs make up the class let alone what the potential side effects may be. If the lack of common sense is found to be so disturbing then perhaps the lack of common sense regarding the prescribing of these toxic drugs that needs to be addressed. Not the ignorance of the patient who trust the FDA, the manufacturers, the physician and the pharmacist, only to find that thier trust has been grossly misplaced. There are anything BUT a safe and effective antibiotic with minimum side effects. They in fact are not even true antibiotics. They are a toxic and dangerous form of chemotherapuetic agents of last resort. ONLY to be prescribed when nothing else has proven to be effective. They are not and never were intended to be a first line agent. These are one form of such therapy that indeed have the potential to do far more harm than good when carelessly prescribed. Such ignorance cannot possibly be considered the fault of the patient. It is the fault of the prescibing physician. Should one wish to attack the lack of common sense I suggest that they start there. The victims of such scripting abuse have enough problems to deal with without adding such nonsense to thier never ending list.

Mon, 25 Aug 2003 22:56:44 -0400 by Guest, #3370
I have been on Levaquin for 2 weeks. I was diagnosed with a Mastoid infection and the Dr. has prescribed this med for me for 1 month and then I will have another cat scan and then be on the med for another 2 months. I have had and occasional upset stomach, diarhea, and some sore muscles. My main side effect is not being able to sleep at night. I would rather be taking this med then having surgery and the symptoms seem to be fading the longer I take it. As for as my infection, I can now move my head and the swelling is going down. I am allergic to PCN, sulfur, and keflex. This seems to be one of the stronger ones that is at least tollerable for me.

Sat, 23 Aug 2003 18:55:39 -0400 by nermal421, #3353
My Dr. gave me a 5 day sample of Levaquin 250mg for a UTI 4 days ago. I took the 1st dose & almost immediately began experiencing a headache over my eyes. I figured it was just stress. I took my second dose & began feeling lightheaded & kind of dopey & my headache was still going strong. On day 3, I woke up with a golfball sized lump in the center or my forehead. I called the Dr. immediately but he could not be reached for 3 hours. In these 3 hours the swelling in my forhead continued to spread. I rushed to his office yesterday afternoon & he was amazed. He siad hes never heard or a reaction like mine but told me to NEVER take Levaquin or any similar drug ever again. He prescribed me another antibiotic & a 7-day pack of prednisone for the allergic reaction. Today I woke up and my forhead is not as swollen. The golf ball is gone but the swelling is travelling down my face. The bridge of my nose & under my eyes are now swollen. I'm very emotionally sensitive and my headache is still present. Levaquin is an evil evil drug! Take with caution!!!! I'll update when I'm feeling better.....hopefully real soon!

Fri, 22 Aug 2003 16:14:40 -0400 by Guest, #3347
Levaquin 500mg is the worst pills i have ever taken it gave me a severe problem i had vaginal discomfort ..burining itching and swelling i had taken this medication to heal and urinary track infection when it healed it i went on to anotha infection which is far more worse then anything i will never take this medication again

Fri, 22 Aug 2003 11:50:19 -0400 by Guest, #3344
Ten days ago I had to go to the emergency room because I was prescribed Bactrim for a UTI and sinus infection. I was only taking it a short time and I started vomiting for two days and was so weak I could hardly get to the bathroom. I did not know that I was allergic to this drug. The doctor there sent me home after my vomiting was under control with Levaquin for 10 days. It has helped my problem but I have such sore joints and muscles and am unusually tired and depressed. I do not have my usual morning sinus headaches. I do have an appointment with my doctor this afternoon and after reading what other people have said about this drug I am understanding why I have such sore joints. I hurt so bad to even get dressed and I have no strength in my body. I am wondering when I will return to normal.

Thu, 21 Aug 2003 22:10:12 -0400 by Guest, #3342
To Guest #3337

You know...to the last message posted about how our health is our own responsibility and all that guff...THAT IS WHY WE ARE READING THESE MESSAGES!!!!! We do rely on our Dr.'s and the pharmacies to provide us with information on our drugs, as who has a better knowledge of them??? Yes, we are all entitled to our own opinions...but I believe you are outcasted MANY TO FEW! Kudos to you about your wonderful Levaquin experience...we all wish we had as much to complain about as you!

Thu, 21 Aug 2003 22:04:17 -0400 by Guest, #3341
To Guest #3337

You know...to the last message posted about how our health is our own responsibility and all that guff...THAT IS WHY WE ARE READING THESE MESSAGES!!!!! We do rely on our Dr.'s and the pharmacies to provide us with information on our drugs, as who has a better knowledge of them??? Yes, we are all entitled to our own opinions...but I believe you are outcasted MANY TO FEW! Kudos to you about your wonderful Levaquin experience...we all wish we had as much to complain about as you!

Thu, 21 Aug 2003 18:06:56 -0400 by Guest, #3339
I am adding a positive response for Levaquin. I have Mycoplasma pneumoniae which won't go away. I have some immunity problems and had another rhinal plasty surgery 3 yers ago. I noticed taking Levaquin did not kill mycoplasma pneumoniae at 500mg. The doctor called in for me 750, which worked like very well. You have to take 1000mg a day to kill mycoplasma, which is in your sinuses, ears, lungs. I keep going into broncial pneumoniae which is hard to diagnose. I have special serology bloodwork done to find it. My ears kept ringing on 500mg a day, muscle pain, and other problems, vision loss. Serretia Marscenses had cultured from my nose, which is the result of Mycoplasma, which has a whole barrel of symptoms. Very diffucult to treat. To kill Mycoplasma needs to be at stronger doses. I do not deny there are allergies to antibiotics. but Mayo Clinic told me to take antibiotics for a month. which Mycoplasma tends to hang on for 3 weeks or better. I hope anybody else hasn't suffered for as long as I have. Yes, I do read the phamplet the pharmacist gives me. Just ask for the write up. I am now getting gamma-globulin to boost my immune system to fight Mycoplasma. I wish everyone well. Shirley

Thu, 21 Aug 2003 13:41:36 -0400 by Guest, #3337
I am on Levaquin, but my side effect is from reading these posts, not taking the drug. I have no patience with people that have no common sense. Yes, doctors should tell you about the drugs they prescribe, but it is your responsibility to ask about potential side effects, interactions with other drugs you are taking, etc. It is also your responsibility to read the detailed informa tion that comes with every prescription from a pharmacy that lists possible side effects, which ones are likely to go away after a dose or two, and which ones you should contact a doctor about. If you get the drug as a sample at your doctor's office, stop in at a pharmacy and ask for the information sheet or get on the internet and find it.

All antibiotics cause dstomach upset and sometimes diarrhea because they kill all the bacteria they find, the bad ones causing your infection as well as the good ones living in your digestive system that keep you healthy. All antibiotics can cause yeast infections for the same reason. As some smart European posters to this list suggested, eating yogurt with live acidophilus cultures or taking acidophilus pills from the healthfood store may mediate this effect.

Lastly, even if your doctors don't have common sense about the symptoms of an allergic reaction, you should know the signs, because severe reactions can lead to anaphylactic shock and even death. Rashes, hives, itching, dizziness, and shortness of breath ARE NOT SIDE EFFECTS! They are warning signs of an allergic reaction. You can become allergic to any drug at any time, even if you have taken it with no problem many times before, antibiotic allergies are very common, and it is vitally important for you to know what drugs you are allergic to because not every doctor reads every word in your medical file. I am allergic to sulfa drugs (which I learned from a severe case of hives while taking Bactrim), yet a doctor prescribed Celebrex for a knee injury, and if I hadn't known that Celebrex contained sulfa I would have been in trouble instead of safely taking sulfa-free Vioxx.

Bottom line, you are responsible for your own health, no one else. Know the difference between signs of an allergic reaction, standard side effects, and rare side effects that should cause concern. If you're concerned, CALL YOUR DOCTOR, HEALTH PLAN, or PHARMACIST rather than posting on an online newsgroup. It could save your life.

Thu, 21 Aug 2003 09:09:42 -0400 by Guest, #3336
I was recently diagnosed with a UTI and was prescribed Doxycycline for it. I had taken 5 of the 7 days of the script, with no relief. I went back to the Dr. and was given a 7 day sample of Levaquin. I took one last evening around 8pm, and needless to say...I got about 4 hours of sleep. Not continuous sleep either, that was in about 30 minute intervals. The nausea set in, my head started pounding, I was freezing and hot all at the same time. When I finally did get to sleep, I had horrible vivid dreams, woke up completely drenched, my heart racing, out of breath, and my head still throbs. I am also having trouble swallowing. I am so wiped out I can barely type this message. I can barely climb the stairs without having to sit down and rest afterwards. I did not get any kind of side effect leaflet due to this being a sample, and thought I would look it up on the Internet. Well...I am glad that I read this before looking up the general side effects, as I will not be taking the remaining 6 pills. I am a single mother with 3 small children, work full time, and definitley do not have time in my schedule to feel like this!

Wed, 20 Aug 2003 22:12:25 -0400 by Guest, #3332
I have been on Levaquin for 9 days for a sinus infection. On about the 7th day my face started breaking out in a rash. The rash is all over my chin, up the side of my face behind my ears, on my forehead, into my eyebrows, and above my lips. I have also noticed today that I am starting to itch all over. Not really bad itching, but enought that I noti ce it. I have not used any new shampoo, makeup, or soap; just the same products I always use. I feel sure this strange slightly itchy face rash is due to the Levaquin. The rash is a fine concentrated rash also with pimple like rash areas too. I do not normally have any problems with my face. This is strange.

Wed, 20 Aug 2003 16:57:34 -0400 by Guest, #3330
I have been taking Levaquin for 11 days. The side effect that it has given me was the metal taste in my mouth, loose bowels and joint pains.

Thank goodness I am finished taking it.

Tue, 19 Aug 2003 12:12:39 -0400 by Guest, #3315
I was wondering if anyone had any swelling of the fingers after taking Levaquin? I have experienced this now for the second time since taking this medication.

Tue, 19 Aug 2003 10:47:27 -0400 by Guest, #3313
I HAD A SORE THROAT AND LEVIQUIN WAS PERSCRIBED FOR ME. I HAVE BEEN TAKING THE DRUG FOR SIX DAY'S. ON DAY NUMBER 5 I EXPERIENCED DIZZINESS TO THE POINT OF NOT BEING ABLE TO HARDLY STAND. I ALSO HAVE CHEST PAINS AND LEG AND MUSCLE PAIN. I HAVE ALSO HAD TROUBLE SLEEPING AND MY FACE FEEL'S FLUSHED ALL THE TIME. THIS CAN HAPPEN WITH ANY ANTIOBOTIC SO I WILL COMPLETE MY SEVEN DAY DOSAGE AND HOPE THAT THE SIDE EFFECTS WILL GO AWAY.

Tue, 19 Aug 2003 00:47:09 -0400 by Guest, #3310
I have been on this drug for two weeks now. It was given to me for pneumonia which had started out as bronchitus but was not caught in time. Since beeing on this medicine, I feel worse. My joints hurt <I'm 19 and feel like an 80 year old>, I have muscle spasms, acid reflux, dizziness, drowsiness, numbness in my fingers, depression, and trouble sleeping. I can't seem to concentrate when reading, writing or even talking. This sucks:'(

Mon, 18 Aug 2003 16:33:31 -0400 by Guest, #3307
11 days ago, I went to the my sinus specialist for a recurring sinus infection. He gave me 2 weeks worth of Levaquin since I had previously tried Bacrim and Amoxicillin without help.
Well, I felt sick ever since I started taking it. I had muscle ache, nausea, diarhea and all over body ache. It also didn't help my sinus infection any.
After a week, I called the doctor and asked him to stop taking it. His nurse told me to continue it for two weeks.
Well, I went to the beach on Friday and I had about two hours of sun. I now learned that you shouldn't take sun when taking LEvaquin. I have been vomiting for two days. I have extremem muscle/joint pain. I am dizzy. I can not walk. I had to go to the emergency room where they told me I was having a severe reaction to Levaquin and they told me to stop taking it.
I really thought I was going to die yesterday.
Today, I'm a little better.
The drug made me really sick. Be careful.

Mon, 18 Aug 2003 13:28:09 -0400 by Guest, #3305
I was bit by 4 fire ants. Of course I cannot be sure, I was sitting at a picnic table. It could have been a spider, but I'm sure I would have killed it before the second or third bite. One of the bites, evidently was successful with its poison. I was bit on the upper inner thigh. The infection spread on my leg to an area of 7 inches by about 9 inches. There was also a lump forming in my leg. It was at this point when the infected area would turn purple for 20 minutes at a time that I was prescribed levaquin. I am currently at day 11 of 14. I cannot take the itching. There is itching everywhere, my face, my arms, but particularly painful is the orafice for BMs. I put up with the nausea, the sleeping troubles, the acid reflux, the getting dizzy once in a while, the exhaustion in tyring to exercise, my neck and shoulder joint hurting. I just can't handle the anus itching, because you just cannot scratch there. And yet I'm not sure what the trade off is because there is still the lump from the insect poison in my leg. I'd like to finish with this nasty medicine (we'll see if I can suffer the last 3 days) but I will never willingly take levaquin again.

Sun, 17 Aug 2003 19:18:20 -0400 by Guest, #3298
I have been placed on levaquin again for a skin bacteria. I was on it last year for an altogether different reason. I am a weight lifter and swimmer and cannot continue to lift or swim while taking levaquin as it causes drastic joint pain....not just ankles, but knees, elbows and shoulders. My advice....if you're going to take levaquin, cease strenuous activity. If you cannot, look for an alternative.

Sun, 17 Aug 2003 00:09:33 -0400 by Guest, #3291
I STARTED A 3 DAY ROUND OF LEVAQUIN/500 ON 8/14/03 AND AFTER 2 HOURS STARTED TO HAVE CHILLS AND A FLU LIKE FEELING BY 9 AT NIGHT I WAS IN BED WITH FEVER AND ALMOST DELERIOUS THINKING MY HUSBAND WAS TALKING TO SOMEONE IN THE ROOM WITH US... I DREAMED I WAS TALKING TO MY DEAD AUNT ABOUT HER SON AND SHE WAS SITTING ON THE BED WITH ME ..MY HUSBAND SAYS I WAS TALKING OUT LOAD TO HER ..NEEDLESS TO SAY HE HAS TOLD ME TO NOT TAKE THE REST OF THE TABLETS I AM A TYPE 2 DIABETIC AND MY SUGAR HAS BEEN LOW ALL DAY AND SINCE I CANT TASTE RIGHT AND HAVE A GAGGING SENSATION I CANT EAT RIGHT I AM TAKING THIS FOR A UTI THIS IS MY FIRST TIME WITH THIS MED. ALWAYS TOOK SOMETHING ELSE FOR ONE AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM LIKE THIS BEFORE.. THATS WHY I WENT LOOKING FOR INFO ON HERE ..I THOUGHT MAYBE IT WAS JUST ME I WENT AHEAD AND TOOK ANOTHER DOSE TODAY BECAUSE I HAD HOPED IT WAS JUST MY GETTING USED TO IT LAST NIGHT...BUT I WILL NOT TAKE ANOTHER AFTER SEEING ALL OF THESE SYMPTONS ..MY DOCTOR WILL HEAR FROM ME MONDAY FIRST THING ...WHEN MY HUSBAND CALLED THE PHARMACIST LAST NIGHT TO TELL WHAT WAS HAPPENING HE REASSURED HIM THAT IT WAS NOT THE MEDICINE AND THAT THE ONLY BAD SIDE AFFECT WAS A WEIRD TASTE AND A BAD HEADACHE..SO MUCH FOR TRUST /I AM SO THANKFUL I FOUND THIS SITE I HOPE EVERYONE WILL DO WELL AND MAYBE SINCE I ONLY TOOK 2 IT WILL LEAVE MY SYSTEM QUICKLY BLESS ALL OF YOU

Sat, 16 Aug 2003 08:11:43 -0400 by Guest, #3288
I was given Levaquin 500mg for 10 days for UTI...
I have only taken one pill so far and I started experiencing dizziness. I took my blood pressure this morning and it was 116/69 so that was ok..
Is dizziness due to the med? And would it occur after taking only one pill? Someone please respond via email about this...

Sat, 16 Aug 2003 00:20:59 -0400 by Guest, #3284
A recent post stated that this site has been a "collecting pool for side effects", which begs the question is that not exactly what this site is for? If you notice the link states that sending a post here is for ADDING an additional adverse drug reaction to this never ending list [specifically "Add Side Effect"}. I do not believe it was intended for any "positive" reports as they would NOT be considered an adverse event. One would also have to question as to "WHY" someone who has had a positive experience to a drug would even bother to research it. It has been my eperience that only those who are suffering would be motivated to do so. Perhaps such post are being generated by those who would profit from the sale of such a toxic drug. Something to consider when reviewing this list of post marketing reports contained herein.


Sat, 16 Aug 2003 00:02:07 -0400 by Guest, #3283
There have been numerous aditional post since I brought the following to your attention, therfore I am sending this information once agian:

Those who continue to suffer the adverse side effects of this drug may find the following to be of some help:

The following is the link to the quinolone adverse drug reaction discussion forum:

groups.yahoo.com/group/quinolones

The following is the link to the fluoroquinolone research forum:

groups.yahoo.com/group/fq_research

The following is the link to the homepage of the fluoroquinolone toxicity research foundation where you will find over 4000 articles documenting the damage these drugs can and will do.

www.fqresearch.org

I do hope that you will find some answers to all of your questions by using these links. You are far from being alone for your name is "Legions". These sites are independent of medications.com and have no relationship what so ever with medications.com


Director
Fluoroquinolone Toxicity Research Foundation




Fri, 15 Aug 2003 18:35:12 -0400 by Guest, #3282
I was given 500mg of levaquin for an ear infection, I took the first dose in the early evening (around 5 pm) I felt a little lightheaded, but nothing I could not handle. That evening I woke up in the middle of the night feeling like my body weighed about 500 lbs. Next morning I felt nauseated all day.
My doctor also told me there were no side effects. After reading these post I'm so glad I didn't continue with the medication.

Fri, 15 Aug 2003 14:48:02 -0400 by Guest, #3279
I have been on Levaquin for 4 out of 10 days. So far the only annoying side effect has been some gastrointestinal upset, but it's not too bad.

I'll let you know if it gets worse.

Fri, 15 Aug 2003 11:09:31 -0400 by Guest, #3277
This drug is the devil! I have typically been very tolerable to different types of drugs, but all that changed with Levaquin. I felt fine for the first day or so and then one morning at work I developed a headache. This quickly developed into a racing heart, the shakes, inability to concentrate and finally the WORST feeling of depression I've EVER experienced! I honestly thought I was losing my mind! Luckily I foiund this site! For most of the next 24 hours I felt the way one might feel minutes before giving a presentation in front of hundres of people -- almost like a state of panic. It was miserable! I've never been one to post messages, but I'm doing this in hopes that it helps someone else.

Fri, 15 Aug 2003 10:47:24 -0400 by Guest, #3276
In addition to joint pains and fatique, I have experienced an increase in acid reflux. I find that I have to supplement my prescription medication with OTC anti-acid medications. Likewise, my stomach seems a little upset in general.

Tue, 12 Aug 2003 21:20:41 -0400 by Guest, #3255
I have been taking 500mg of Levaquin for 13 days of a 14 day prescription. After 9 days I started to experience joint pain, primarily in my knees, fingers, toes and plantar surface of my feet. Suspecting the Levaquin, I found this site and was surprised to see others with the same problems. While I did not associate it with the drug until I read the reports from others, I began having extremely vivid dreams from the day I started taking the prescription. Also developed hives on day 7. I've never previously had any reaction to an antibiotic (or any other drug).

Tue, 12 Aug 2003 15:47:34 -0400 by Guest, #3252
I just got out of the hospital a few days ago. I received Levaquin intravenously. I am now taking a weeks worth of pills. Reading these entries is very disturbing.

I have expereinced aches in joints, but I relate that to being stuck in bed for four days doing nothing.
Other than that, I tire very easily and have been experiencing some headaches. I'll take that over tha pain I was in before.
I've found it's better to take in the evening because suroundings do become a little hazing sometimes, and I find it hard to concentrate at work, so I look for sites on the meds I am taking instead...

Mon, 11 Aug 2003 22:42:00 -0400 by rosemary, #3247
Terrible pain in pelvic as well as hip joints; knees, ankles, foot joints; so bad, I cannot walk. Depression, feeling like going mad, headache all over head and neck.

Mon, 11 Aug 2003 19:59:17 -0400 by tammy, #3246
I went to the Doctors on July 28th for a bubble that was appearing on my left chek bone. My doctor diagnosed me with an ear and sinus infection. He then gave me 14 days worth of Levaquin 500 mg. This was second time he had given me this drug. 3 weeks prior to this he gave me 6 days worth of Levaquin for the same bubble that appeared on my face and then sent me to a dermatologist. I had been feeling faint, dizzy, hot , cold, heart palpitations, however though I had the flu or heat stroke(this was the first time I wason Levaquin) This last tome I had taken 12 of the 14 pills and noticed my right knee had been bothering me for about a week, funny taste in my mouth (like a filling was leaking), tirede, irritable and then my left shoulder was hurting. I kept thinking I must have bumped on soemthing, well then my right shoulder started hurting,. The left shoulder got so severe I could not even pull my shiort up over my head without breaking into tears. Finally my husband said, I bet its that antibiotic your taking. I recvd samples of the medication so Indid not have the write up they give you at the pharmacy. I thought I was going crazy, the pain was getting hard to tolerate. When I saw my doctor I told him what was going on and he said he had only heard of the Archilles tendon giving some patients problems as a side effect. He had never ehard of the shoulders however he said to go off the medicine and he prescribed me soma (muscle relaxer) did not help and then Vicodin(did not help). I have been off the medicine for 5 days including today, feeling a litlle better both shoulders still hurt especially at night and I tire easily. I think this is poison and should be taken off the market. I told the doctor he needs to go on to the internet and educate himself I was furious.

Mon, 11 Aug 2003 15:30:33 -0400 by Guest, #3242
First dose seemed to go okay...........for the first few hours. Then I was at work and the nausia hit me like a ton of bricks. Worst part of it all I couldnt quit crying. Needless to say I was sent home. I would rather put up with Burning when I pee to this.......FDA sux. I told the Dr. I didn't want to try a "New Drug" Why don't they ever listen.......???? Cipro always worked great with no side effect. Luckly for me at the time I could only afford to buy 3 pills.

BTW The only people who are getting the nasty new bacteria are people who live on atibiotics, not the ones who quit taking them..
Its the ones who make there bodies resistant, where their antiboties won't build on there own without help. Like a drug addict...always needs more.....newer, better. So parents.....before you take your babies to the Dr. for a cold and get antibiotics for them...your not helping anyone you are making your children MORE sick then better......

Mon, 11 Aug 2003 08:03:09 -0400 by tearnap51, #3237
I had no idea an antibiotic could cause such side effects until I visited this site. I have taken Levaquin twice in the past 2 months for chronic sinusitis. First time for 10 days (250 mg) and then couple of weeks later for 21 days (500 mg). I don't think it is gone yet. I complained to my husband of extreme joint pain, pain in my ankles and extreme fatigue. He said I bet it is that antibiotic you are taking and I just kind of brushed him off. However, when I mentioned it to a friend who has had many sinus problems she said I better check it out on the Internet. Sure enough I see others who have had similar problems. I work nights so I do have different sleep patterns but have never been one to require a lot of sleep but lately I can't seem to get enough sleep. I have not taken it for about 5 to8 days and wonder when my symptoms will start to go away.

I, too, am allergic to penicillin and sulfa so have tried many different antibiotics but never had a reaction like this. It is horrible to have this much pain. I will definitely be telling my doctor about my reaction to this antibiotic. I, too, was never given any warning about the possible reactions to this but was told not to take it with other products like calcium. My patient advisory leaflet did mention to advise my doctor if I had tendon, joint or muscle pain but I didn't make the connection of this type pain. Guess I should have been smarter.

Fri, 8 Aug 2003 21:25:42 -0400 by Guest, #3220
Common sense is needed!! With any type of medication there are bound to be a number of different side effects, some people experience all others none. But when any medication taken produces rash/hives you should stop taking that drug immediately and seek medical attention.

I"m deathly allergic to Pennicillins and now have also become allergic to Sulfa meds.

I'm not thrilled with being on antibiotics, but Levaquin for the most part only makes me nauseated. I work at a Hospital from 6:30 a - 3:00 p in the Medical Records dept. I normally take my antibiotic late afternoon / early evening so that I don't have the nasty side affects during work hours.

I don't like taking antibiotics all the time for other reasons, I don't want my body to resist them when I get older and need them. There are infections where your body either becomes immune to the drug or totally the drug fails and you have worse infections and may die from them. MRSA is just one to mention.

I have Urology problems and Levaquin is the drug of choice so I have to put up with them :( I also have chronic sinusitis and levaquin also helps there too.

Get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids and most of all
USE YOUR HEAD/COMMON SENSE!!!

Fri, 8 Aug 2003 14:28:16 -0400 by Guest, #3218
I've been on the drug for 3 days, and I feel terrible. I think it's working to clear up an infection, but the side effects are so bad, I think an alternative antibiotic would be beter- I feel really sick/nauseous inside my body, my entire esophagus feels like it is inflamed (it hurt so much it woke me from my sleep one night), and I'm horribly depressed. There is also a general restless but tired feeling. However, I am not particularly healthy to begin with and I'm sensitive to most drugs (which I told the physician!), so maybe for most people it's okay.

Thu, 7 Aug 2003 23:45:16 -0400 by Guest, #3211
I was given a ten day precription of Levaquin 500mg. for a sinus infection and infected tooth by my medical doctor. Four weeks earlier I had stopped taking my hormone therapy. I woke up with very bad hot sweats and at the same time panic and anxiety attacks. My mind would focus on something upsetting and I couldn't stop it. I would wake up retching and had a sore shoulder and knee. After about a week of taking this drug I started with just crying for no reason. My husband thought I was on the verge of a nervous breakdown.I went to my medical doctor and was told that I had three choices. To go back on HRT, Take a drug like paxil, or see a counceler. He never mentioned that this could be from Levaquin. I then went to my Gyn, and he put me back on the hormone therapy that I had been getting off. After eight days on Levaquin I decided to stop it. That first night I slept just fine. I am so angry that neither doctor mentioned that this drug had such bad side effects. I told my medical doctor that I have a hard time taking medicines as I always get reactions.At times I still feel a little shaky.I sure am going to let my doctors know about this. Thank goodness I found this site on the computer. I thought I was going crazy.

Wed, 6 Aug 2003 21:32:04 -0400 by Guest, #3198
I am a female, I went to my doctor Maybe a month ago with a urinary tract infection, He put me on levaquin. I begun to get a little better but the infection was not completely gone, So I called him back and went a second round with levaquin. That was like a month ago. I went back to the doctor with a rash that would not seem to go away. It started on my feet and then my legs, he told me it was Chigger bites, he gave me an anti-inflammtory drug, predinsone,and a lotion for itching. Shortly after that I pulled muscles in my shoulder and neck swimming, Went back to the Doctor, Was told I just pulled some muscles and was gave muscle relaxers and loratab. My rash by this time was much worse, it had spread to under my arms, buttocks, arms. Basically all over. I went back to the doctor today and was sent to a dermatologist. She right off looking at it close under a light, Said I had a drug reaction. The rash had spread to my throat and she was concerned about that. We went over all the different medication I had been on, I absent mindly forgot about the levaquin. She told me to refer to my medical record and try to find out what drugs I had taken in the past, That I didn't normally take. Levaquin was it. Be careful taking this medication, Drug reactions can be very dangerous. I am almost 90% sure that it was caused by the levaquin. I will touch base tomorrow with my dermatologist to see what she thinks about the levaquin- But after reading all of these side effects you all have had, I am convinced. Next urinary infection I have, I think i will ask the doctor for a different antibiotic.

Wed, 6 Aug 2003 19:18:42 -0400 by Guest, #3195
i am 23/male, had to take a weeks worth of levaquin for what they oringally thaught was urinary track infection but later turned out to be a kidney stone. i never got even the slightest noticable side effect feeling. if there was one ther eit was so minimal i never even noticed it....kinda pissed i had to pay all that money for pill i in the end never even needed to take anyways though. (they had me on 250mg pills)

Wed, 6 Aug 2003 13:01:27 -0400 by Guest, #3192
I took Levaquin for a sinus infection and by the 3rd day I had such terrible muscle and tendon aches that I couldn't sleep. I seemed to get a little relief from standing up. I thought I had hurt my back--never thinking it was the medication. Although the medication was working well for the infection, I could not stand the pain and had been taking Tylenol#3 for it. After stopping the Levaquin, the muscle and tendon pain subsided, but it has been 6 weeks and I still get sharp leg pains. I took 5 of the 10 day prescription. I then finished up with Amoxicillin 500mg for the infection.

Tue, 5 Aug 2003 06:23:26 -0400 by Guest, #3181
I dont think these are new but I would like others to know before they take this medicine.I took levaquin for a prostate infection for 16 days -was supposed to take it for 30. I had many side effects including poor sleep,vivid dreams,muscle and joint pains,ringing in the ears,dizzines,fatigue,and most of all an overall nasty feeling-everything looked ugly.The medicine seemed to be working so I stuck with it in spite of these side effects.On the 16th day doing nothing more than just normal walking in my house I tore a muscle-ligament in my right calf.Now I am walking with a limp and severe pain and my urologist told me to immediately see an orthopedist as torn tendons are a possible side effect of this medicine.I wish I was told earlier.Take my advice dont take this medicine! You are just going to trade one problem for another.

Tue, 5 Aug 2003 05:49:16 -0400 by Guest, #3180
its 500 in the morining. i thought it was wierd the pharmisist warned me not to play sports while on this drug as it tightens up tendons that can lead to other injuries. im on my 7th day now on a 10 day prescription. it has been getting harder to sleep every night, now i have a burning rash or hives that started in one leg and are spreading everywhere, my jaw is shaking uncontrolably, and my eyes are on fire, what kind of testing do they do, what kind of doctors give prescriptions based on wonderdrugs. there is adeeper underlying problem than my current joint weakness upset stomach, shaking, and hives and did i fail to mention my eyes are on fire, im tired during the day and the rash has been getting worse. i dont like to not sleep suspect LEVAQUIN at 500 in the morning and find this website. im a very physically active person but not lately my tendons ache. this bs better subside soon IM FINISHED WITH IT all my body cracks topped with hives

Mon, 4 Aug 2003 15:26:29 -0400 by Guest, #3174
I am a 24 year healthy male. Last week I told to take a weeks worth of Levaquin for a chest infection. After a few hours of my first dose, I noticed neck pains, weakness, dizziness, diarrhea, and headaches. I was unable to fall asleep, I was sweating alot more, and had some pretty crazy dreams. On the second to last day, I noticed my heart rate would increase now and then for no particular reason. All of these side effects are listed with the medication. This IS a very powerful medicine. But I will take ALL of those side effects over the 103.8 fever I had, with a cough that wouldn’t let me breath much less sleep at night. After a day and a half of Levaquin I was feeling better. It works, just read the side effects before taking it and be aware. Some people are allergic to certain things, in which case sever side effects will occur (hives, etc). This is true for any drug, not just Levaquin.

Sun, 3 Aug 2003 20:53:24 -0400 by Guest, #3167
My wife was given Levaquin for a repeat sinus infection. Previously diagnosed with a metabolic/kidney disorder that has produced over 10 years of frequent kidney stones and other problems. Her body takes longer to respond to most drugs. After the 4th dose of levaquin, she started complaining of frequent urination and mild pain in the rib area. She is now complaining of severe vaginal pain during urination. Although most of the symptoms described in this site are not present, we feel it necessary to stop the medication for possible irreversible damage. Beware....

Sat, 2 Aug 2003 14:27:21 -0400 by Guest, #3156
I am a 44 year old male in fairly good health. My doctor prescribed Levaquin (500 mg), and I took my first dose at bed time. Within 2 hours I had never experiences quite a reaction in my life. My legs started to hurt, and I started getting very cold. My teeth were chattering. I tried to go back to bed but couldn't sleep as I was freezing. (This is New York in the middle of the summer with the a/c off).

I actually called the doctor on call at 3:00 a.m. and he said I can let it pass through my system or go to an emergency room.

So I let it pass and finally went to sleep by 5:00 a.m. covered in blankets. I woke up at 9:00 a.m. with sweat on my sheets and realized the drug must have wore off.

Needless to say, I will not be taking a second dose tonight before I consult with my doctor after the weekend.

This was all to help what appeared to be a sinus infection.

I say to all reading this, be careful with this powerful drug.

Sat, 2 Aug 2003 12:17:22 -0400 by Guest, #3155
Severe exhaustion - had to lie down many times during the day and stop driving when it occured. Severe pains in back of head that will not go away. Have not been able to go out, or do anything because of this pain. Can't sleep. Dr just says to stop medication and take Ibuprofen. Supposed to start a job with school in a few days but do not know if this will be possible with the severe pain in back of head. Also pain in the heel of my right foot.

Sat, 2 Aug 2003 01:17:58 -0400 by poisoned1, #3151
I am a 31 year old male, have always been in good health with no known allergies, eat a healthy diet, and have worked out with weights and cardio twice a week for the last year.

I recently went to see a doctor for strep throat. I was given amoxicillin and the strep went away after 7 days.

Two days later, the strep symptoms started to gradually reappear. I went back to the doctor and was prescribed 10 days of Levaquin. I did notice some side-effects of rapid and irregular heartbeat, mild panic attacks, confusion, depression, vivid epic-long dreams, and minor dizziness. I had not previously read anything negative about Levaquin and just thought these were normal symptoms of being medicated for strep throat. The strep symptoms went away after 1 day of being on Levaquin.

Then my REAL NIGHTMARE began. After about 2 days on Levaquin, a SEVERE rash/hives started to spread over my body, starting with my hands. I went back to the doctor, was told I had contact dermatitis from "something" I was allergic to, and was given an anti-inflammatory shot in the arse and Kenalog ointment to apply. As directed, I had always taken great pains to avoid being in the sun whatsoever while on antibiotics. The rash continued to grow worse and worse over the next several days.

I went back to the doctor and was given another anti-inflammatory shot. I asked if the rash could be a result of the Levaquin, and the doctor quickly brushed that "absurd" notion aside! By the 9th of my 10 day trip on Levaquin, the rash had completely spread all over my body, even under my palms. Frightening! Only the soles of my feet and groin area have been spared this horrible-looking, itching madness. On that 9th day, it even started to appear on my face. Though the doctor insisted I should, I did not take the 10th dose of this "poison."

I wish I had done my research and found this website sooner! I have now been off of Levaquin for 48 hours and the rash is still raging strong. The itching has almost brought me to the brink of insanity. I have taken Benadryl tablets and used Benadryl gel and thankfully, they have brought me some minor amounts of comfort. My NIGHTMARE rash does not seem to be going away. I look like some sort of medieval, infected "plague victim." I am severely depressed and the rash is now so horrific-looking that I do not even want to leave my house! I have now read some accounts on this site about this sort of rash happening, but never learned just how long I can expect to endure this HELL?

I was never given ANY warning at all about how serious this medication is, and how threatening it's side-effects can be. I would rather have that nasty strep throat back than now look like some plague-victim and be itching non-stop, unless I'm stoned out of my mind on Benadryl!!!

I have never in my life enjoyed wearing the mantle of a victim, but I truly feel that some sort of cruel injustice has been done to me. Having this never-ending rash has now dragged me into such a deep depression that I feel I may soon need to seek professional mental help. Any advice on how I might make this rash go away and be back to looking like a normal human being would be greatly appreciated.

I wish all of you out there a speedy recovery from your personal LEVAQUIN NIGHTMARE. Thank you.

Fri, 1 Aug 2003 23:31:06 -0400 by tankyflu, #3150
I recently had surgery for kidney stones and was prescribed Levaquin in the ER before my surgery was scheduled. So far, I have taken 4 doses and my doctor has prescribed me to take 10 more. I refuse to go get that prescription filled!

I walk up the steps and feel like I have just ran a marathon. I wake up in the middle of the night in a puddle of sweat. As I sit here typing this....I feel dizzy and like I've been on some type of psychadelic drug or something. At first, I had no idea what was causing these symptoms but after reading this site, I am so relieved that I know what is causing me to feel this way. I have not felt any muscle aches or itching or anything and I hope that I don't since I have just discontinued my use of this drug. Does anyone know how long after you stop takiang this medication does it take for the dizziness, shortness or breath and sweats stops? Thanks for any information.

Fri, 1 Aug 2003 17:20:40 -0400 by Guest, #3147
I took Levaquin in April for a sinus infection that was pretty severe that the medicine worked and I don't remember major side effects. However, I have the sinue infection back in one ear, went to the dr. yesterday and she prescribed again 500mg for 10 days. I took the first pill last night and w/in a few hours was nauseated, my vision was blurring (thought it might be time to change contacts), did not sleep well and got up several times in the night to urinate (which is rare). I woke up feeling very achy and my right forearm, shoulder and neck were very sore. I thought maybe I slept on it wrong. Today I am nauseous, urinating frequently and having vision problems not to mention very lethargic at work. Not good. After seeing all the negative comments on this website I feel better that I'm not losing my mind and it is the Levaquin, which I plan on not taking anymore and will call my dr. for another alternative.

Fri, 1 Aug 2003 12:32:27 -0400 by Guest, #3143
I was prescribed Levaquin for 20 days for a chronic sinus infection that my specialist and I believe I had for over a year. The drug worked like a charm and I had no side effects except a little stomach discomfort the first night. Unfortunately, after a month or so the infection returned. Again I was prescribed Levaquin. This time, after a week on it, I had major side effects; thrush, diarreha, lightheadness and an achy feeling. I called my doctor, and although he was reluctant to change it since it worked so well the first time, he told me to stop taking it. When the diarrhea stops I will be prescribed something else. My theory is that there is nothing inherently bad about Levaquin. But I believe it was meant to be prescribed only for severe infections. That is why it worked so well for me the first time, but it is clearly overkill for this second infection I developed. The fact it is availible as an IV should tell doctors that it is a serious drug to be reserved for the most serious of cases.