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Levaquin

Levaquin (levofloxacin) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic manufactured by LevaquinOrtho McNeil Pharmaceutical Inc. and used to treat bacterial infections in adults. Levaquin kills many different types of bacteria, including bacteria that can cause lung infections, sinus infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections. Levaquin is best known for treating bacterial infections that cause:

  • bronchitis
  • pneumonia
  • chlamydia
  • gonorrhea
  • skin infections
  • urinary tract infections
  • infections of the prostate

Besides bacterial infections, Levaquin may also be used to prevent or

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slow anthrax after exposure. Levaquin does not kill viruses, however, and is not effective in treating viral infections, such as the common cold or flu.

How Levaquin Works
Levaquin belongs to the class of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones. Fluoroquinolones, like Levaquin, fight bacterial infections in the body by stopping the production of essential proteins needed by the bacteria to survive. Levaquin is the most powerful germ-killing antibiotic currently available, which is why the U.S. military stockpiles a form of it for possible biological warfare.

Because Levaquin is so potent, Levaquin may wipe out good bacteria along with the bad. For instance, Levaquin may kill good bacteria, also known as “normal flora,â€? in the digestive track. After Levaquin destroys this good bacteria, unwanted yeast or other bacteria may take over, causing upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting. To help avoid this problem, doctors recommend taking Levaquin with lots of water. 

Levaquin is also known to adversely affect the central nervous system, causing drowsiness, dizziness, irritability, insomnia, restlessness and headaches. Additionally, Levaquin can weaken cartilage and cause joint damage. In rare cases, Levaquin may also cause hallucinations, seizures, and the life-threatening skin condition known as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Those at greatest risk of suffering side effects from Levaquin include: 

  • runners, weight-lifters, or any athletes or workers who put a lot of pressure and strain on their joints
  • tea and coffee drinkers
  • small children
  • expectant mothers
  • the elderly or anyone with a weak immune system
  • heavy alcohol drinkers or those with a history of liver problems
  • diabetics

Levaquin Injury Lawyers

Adverse reactions to antibiotics that treat bacterial infections, such as Levaquin, are responsible for more than 140,000 emergency rooms visits each year. If you or a loved one took Levaquin and experienced an adverse side effect, contact us today as you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.




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Levaquin Quick Facts

Levaquin Quick Reference Guide
Other Names:

Levofloxacin

Date Approved:
December 20, 1996

Manufacturer:
Ortho-McNeil

Status:
On the market

Approved Uses:
Bacterial infections
Pneumonia
Chronic Bronchitis
Sinus Infections

Off-Label Uses:
n/a

Serious Side Effects:
Tendon rupture
Toxic epidermal necrolysis
Peripheral Neuropathy

Common Misspellings:
Leviquin
Levoquin