Levaquin and Tendon Ruptures
Levaquin (levofloxacin) is a member of a class of drugs known as flouroquinolones, which are prescribed to fight bacterial infections. The FDA put a "black box" warning on this drug to increase awareness of its link to tendon ruptures and tendonitis.
The FDA warning states that “ruptures of the shoulder, hand, Achilles tendon, or other tendons that required surgical repair or resulted in prolonged disability have been reported in patients receiving quinolones, including levofloxacin. Post-marketing surveillance reports indicate that this risk may be increased in patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids, especially the elderly. Levofloxacin should be discontinued if the patient experiences pain, inflammation, or rupture of a tendon. Patients should rest and refrain from exercise until the diagnosis of tendinitis or tendon rupture has been confidently excluded. Tendon rupture can occur during or after therapy with quinolones, including levofloxacin."
Signs and Symptoms of a Tendon Rupture
Tendonitis is rip-and-tear damage to a tendon and Levaquin may increase the chance of tendon injuries. The most common injuries reported are tendon ruptures and tendonitis in the shoulder's rotator cuff, the hand and particularly the Achilles' tendon in the foot. Signs and symptoms of tendonitis include swelling and bruising, pain and tenderness near a joint. Movement aggravates these symptoms.
The tendon most frequently associated with Levaquin-induced ruptures is the Achilles tendon in the foot. Signs and symptoms include sudden and severe pain, difficulty in walking and swelling and bruising.
Tendonitis can occur in other tendons, as well; some have well-known names. Tennis elbow — the outer sides of the forearm near the elbow. There is pain when you rotate your forearm or grip an object. Golfer's elbow — pain on the inner part of the elbow. Patellar tendonitis: pain below the kneecap. Adductor tendonitis — pain in the groin. Rotator Cuff tendonitis — shoulder pain.
These tendonitis side affects are a serious consideration if you are prescribed Levaquin. When tendonitis is mild, it can be treated with over-the-counter medications. More severe injuries may require more aggressive treatments.
