Oct. 9,2008. I was given Avelox Monday Oct 6,2008 from my family...

One thing you must know. You are know allergic to ALL FLUOROQUINOLONES. Take another one and it may kill you, make sure you get some tags or a medalert USB bracelet, necklace or something you can wear. In hospitals they routinely give Cipro in IV or pill form, another one of these drugs. You must have this information on your person because if you don't they won't know your allergies. Best of luck to you.

I am sorry to hear about your experience. I also had an allergic reaction to this drug in August, though not as life-threatening as yours. I, too, was being treated for sinus infection, which for me is routinely twice a year. Normally I receive Z-pack and I'm good. This time the doctor gave me samples of Avelox. I questioned the nurse about the drug, not having heard of it, and she said that is what he wanted me to have. When I got home that evening, I did not take a dose b/c I had a bad feeling about taking a new drug at night. After taking the second dose, I got a red, itchy patch on my neck. After the weekend, and stopping the medication, I went back to the doctor and found more spots on my upper torso. I mentioned my reluctance to take this medication and of course he suggested that I worried myself into getting hives. After 4 weeks of itching, and breaking out all over, I now know that I cannot take any form of this medication again. I believe it was very reckless to give such a strong drug as a sample to a patient, and would love to see a class action lawsuit arise as a result of all of the pain and suffering it has caused. This drug belongs in a hospital, as a last resort drug, where you can be monitored for severe reactions. Good luck to you, you are NOT alone!

Over in Germany,where this drug is made, Bayer sent letters to the Drs there stating the problems w/ this drug and it should only be used in cases where nothing eles works, and monitor closely . I am stunned FDA aproved it here....thanks for the responses.