Levaquin and insomnia

I mentioned this a few weeks ago and have found the source of my comments. It is in Peter D'Adamo's book "Eat Right For Your Blood Type". The reason I found this interesting is because my dad had a terrible reaction to Levaquin and was curious about his blood type after reading that AB and B blood types should avoid fluoroquinolones. Dad passed away in March, but ascertained his blood type from mom's, mine, and brother. I am O, brother AB, and mom type A. Dad, therefore had to be B. Food for thought.
Dad had ulnar nerve damage, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, insomnia, pain in calves and shoulders,etc. Succumbed suddenly from rare b-cell lymphoma in lungs, which just appeared out of nowhere while in hospital for Levaquin reaction. Mom unfortunately took Levaquin last month. Then suddenly is now dying from Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer. Is this all a coincidence? Is this stuff fertilizer for cancer?

Burning aches aches and pains, all over body and in joints, extreme fatigue, headache, insomnia.

Took drug for 20 days, side effects began after a day or two, but I didn't know about the relationship between the drug and the side effects until after I took the last pill. I thought something was just very wrong with me!

Still lacking in energy a week after taking the last pill, still have some severe aches and pains, especially in the shoulders and hips.

On for 10 days, off for several and then on for another 20 for sinus infection. Whole body aches and has since second day or so after starting the second course of the drug, however the extreme aches are getting better since final dose. I have also had extreme fatigue to the point that between the aches and the fatigue, I really wondered if my body was shutting down.

Since stopping the drug I have been having insomnia nightly, despite taking Vicodin for the pain at night. Usually, if I need to take Vicodin for orthopedic pain, I will sleep all night without waking.

Joint at second toe on right foot inflamed, whole ball of the foot swollen, but ortho (foot specialist) says he's aware of Achilles Tendon problems but has not heard of Levaquin causing or contributing to inflammation or swelling of this joint, however he said the problem with the toe is progressing "quickly". I did not have a problem that I knew of with this toe and joint until taking this drug.

Face is somewhat puffy, more than usual and fingers are stiff and feel swollen in the morning.

While taking levaquin I also had severe insomnia. Slept very little with lingering effects. Husband also had sleeplessness when taking levaquin. He quit taking and after few days went back to normal sleep pattern.

It has been almost two years since I took one tablet of 500 mg levaquin for a throat infection. I immediately felt lightheaded, then came the hot prickly skin, rapid heartbeat, insomnia and just a feeling of doom. I did not take another pill. Right after this my ankles started to hurt and podiatrist said had a torn posterier tibial tendon. To this day, I cannot walk without a limp, and can only wear athletic shoes with orthotics. If I stand for or walk for a small period of time I am in a lot of pain and have to sit. I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis from the inflammatory markers in blood tests and rf factor, even though mri of my hands and wrists are normal. My right shoulder and arm hurt, my wrists and fingers hurt, my knees, neck. It is better, but I will never be the same as I was - no more running, walking my dog, going camping with my daughters girl scout troop - can't go hiking. I am 50 and I feel like I am 90. Would like to sue someone.

I am an 80 year old male----quite good health except for having right hip replacement since 1988 industrial accident---several months ago, my orthopedic surgeon told me the severe pain; again in right hip, required surgery to correct. I had that surgery about 3 weeks ago and it went well--had usual pain, muscle cramps, but nothing alarming---I also had a left knee implant 4 years ago, so I know what to expect. I was discharged from hospital after 3 days and seemed OK-----however, I developed a mild infection the the drainage area of the surgery, my Orthopedic surgeon said not to take any chances and prescribed 500 milligrams of LEVAQUIN---one tablet each day fro 30 days!!!!~the very first day I took Levaquin, I was very stiff and sore in muscles, arms, legs and the worst insomnia I have ever experienced---I took a SECOND pill next day because I trust my doctor-----I immediately began having HORRIBLE NIGHTMARES, anxiety and absolutely unable to sleep longer than an hour at a time.----I feel like some of the descriptions that people said about LSD---I thank God I had sense to stop drug and am cleansing my system---I pray I am more successful in clearing this poison that some others I have read about-------BAN LEVAQUIUN it is a deadly, multifaceted poison that damages, muscles, eyes, joints ------THE WHOLE BODY!!!!! B.

I've been taking Levaquin for 7 days for a bad sinus infection. Last night I took the last pill. It worked very well, within 1 day my sinus infection felt a lot better. However it gave me severe stomach cramps, and it caused constipation and insomnia. And then I began noticing that I was getting some anxiety and depression symptoms which I attributed to possible PMS. However, now I'm thinking it's attributed to the Levaquin. I noticed that after taking it for 3 days I was feeling like I had to force myself to smile at things that normally would be humorous or fun. And for the last 4-5 days my kids and husband have been asking me if I was "sad" why I was angry so much. Today I thought maybe I should go see a counselor because maybe I am depressed. Then I thought to check on the side effects of Levaquin (I did not know there were even such bad side effects until I read this website). Well now I'm thinking maybe it isn't ME after all, but the Levaquin! Does anyone have any idea how long it takes for this to get out of your system? Are there ways to speed the process up? I have got to get this out of my system, I can't stand feeling like this.

I have had bronchitis for 3 weeks. I first was prescribed a 5-day Z-pack, which didn't do the trick. Went back to the clinic doctor, as I don't have insurance, and I switched to Levaquim, 500mg/day, once a day, for 7 days. Its now 5 days in and I'm still sick. I don't cough a lot because of the Hydromet cough syrup, but I can tell I'm still sick.

Side effects have been insomnia mainly, and a sporadic inability to concentrate. I have not been nauseas at all, nor have I had any of the joint or other pain reported by other people. I can't even be sure the side effects I have had are from the Levaquin, as opposed to the cough syrup.

Doctor prescribed 500mg 1x day for Upper Respiratory Infection. I took it the first 7 days. I experienced insomnia, anxiety, loss of taste and smell and loss of appetite. After a meal, food just sat there and bloated my stomach for 10 hours. I also was shocked to experience increased sexual desire and that is the last thing I wanted while in the dark mental state of panic induced by Levaquin. It's a horrible drug.

I found this site and stopped taking it. I called the doctor, who said he did not agree that Levaquin caused those symptoms. It's time for a new doctor.

I have read the dreadful Levaquin experiences of others here. May some good come out of the suffering of these folks and may this site serving as a warning to prevent others in the future from ever taking Levaquin. God bless everyone.

I started taking Levaquin 500mg on Jan. 28,2009 after having it prescribed fby my cardiologist for a lung infection, after he conducted blood, urine and heart ecosonogram tests over the three previous days. I had an infection, everything else was fine. I am 55 and have mitral valve prolapse and have been treated 20 years ago for atrial fibrillation, hence my primary care doctor is a cardiologist. Willingly starting the treatment of one tablet a day, I noticed insomnia the first and subsequent nights, tiredness and probably depression as my friend and wife said I was acting a bit "needy" and anxiety. My family commented on my anxiety as did my friend who I only email and phone. My infection noticeably improved so I was feeling better and marked it up to having been sick, until the 4th day when I starting having shortness of breath and I noticed a feeling I knew well but had not experienced in 20 years, my heart area hurt in a mild way and I felt flutters, just enough that I pulled the medical paper for the Levaquin and read the side effects bar. Low and behold all my side effects were listed. "Rare but could happen in patients predisposed to heart problems" On Monday Feb 2nd I called the doctor with my concerns but he assured me that is was not the Levaquin but he made me an appointment to check things out. So one week into the 10 day course of treatment I had another checkup only to find an erratic heart beat but on the slow side not the pounding which is normally associated with this problem. So now my doctor "who is a friend" so I am not a number, wants me to start on an anticoagulant"Coumadin" to ease the pumping in my heart and then further exams and medication for "life" for my fibrillation! Problem now is I have one more pill of the Levaquin of the 10 pill series which I "should take in 10 minutes ( I just found this site)! I have decided not to take any more test or medication of any kind until I feel this Levaquin is completely out of my body. Does anyone have any ideas how long that could be? P.S. My heart still feels like it did earlier in the week!

I was prescribed Levaquin about 3 months ago. Not only did I have horrible insomnia while taking the medication - even after taking ambien and the lunestra - the insomnia continued. It messed my sleep cycle up so bad, that now, even months later, I have major insomnia problems, and am now trying to get off the sleeping pill downward slide too. I recently went to see a sleep specialist MD, and when I told him about taking Levaquin, he knew exactly what I was talking about. This drug is bad news, and really should be taken off the FDA approved list. Please, don't take this drug if you value your sleep (unless you don't mind functioning on 3 hours a night for months).

I started Levaquin 750 mg 3 days ago . Beside feeling foggy and very tired & exhausted, I've had terrible insomnia for two nights in a row now. I'm taking it for bronchitis, but I'm going to stop, even though I don't like to stop taking an antibiotic in the middle of treatment.

I had horrible side effects (body aches, joint and muscle pain, headaches, hallucinations, insomnia, anxiety, heart palpitations, etc.). I did some research and I am currently trying to detox using calcium (tums or vitamins), magnesium (liquid antacids or vitamins), orange juice, apple juice, and grapefruit juice which all limit the absorption of the drug. A high protein and high fiber diet with no refined sugars is suppose to help. Drink plenty of water and add a B-Complex to help with Anemia (another side effect). Apparently, it takes three weeks to eliminate from your system. Good Luck and God Bless.

Please, is the anyone who knows of a way to treat the dibilating muscle/joint pain experienced as a result of taking the antibiotic, levaquin?

This note is very hard to write. I had a kidney stone removed using laser surgery and the urologists prescribed the 500mg of levaquin to prevent infection. I took the first pill while under the influence of dilaudid, so I didn't realize my dizziness, loud ringing in my ears, nausea, headaches, lack of appetite, insomnia, and joint pain were the result of the levaquin. I thought I was just reacting to going cold turkey off the dilaudid. I took two more pills. I haven't slept in two days and I am the most exhausted I have ever felt in my life.

This stuff is poison. I can't believe the cavalier attitude of the physicians who proscribe these powerful chemicals and the FDA is doing a very weak job keeping bad medicine out of the hands of these shills for the drug companies; i.e., the doctors.

I stopped today and I pray that I will recover from this very nasty experience. It has been as bad or worse as the kidney stone attack. I hope the other victims of this hoax cure win their class action suit and shut down this dangerous drug.

I was prescribed 750 mg. for 3 days of Levaquin for a UTI by a doctor (not my regular) I did notice the slight dizziness but wasn't too concerned. I also had some insomnia but didn't connect it to Levaquin. Then in the a.m. after 21 hours of taking the first dose, I had elevated heart rate and blood pressure along with nervousness. Scary! I've taken 250 mg of Levaquin for sinus infection previously (3 days) and never had any side effects. I even asked for this prescription...can you believe that. It's New Years Day so I can't even contact my regular doctor but I am stopping Levaquin and requesting to not ever prescribe this drug to me again!!!!!

OH MY GOD!!!! I thought I might be imagining things. I was prescribed Levaquin and clyndamycin on December 15 2008 for a urinary tract infection that appeared to have gone systemic. After 2 days my right knee swelled up. I went back to the Dr the next day and he looked up both antibiotics in his little book and said the clyndamycin could cause joint swelling and pain. He told me to stop taking the clyndamycin and take 600 mg of ibuprofen for the joint paig. His little book said nothing about levaquin. Well I kept taking the levaquin and the pain spread literally to every joint in my body. I could not walk and had trouble even holding a coffee cup. The pain was unreal. I completed the 10 day course of the levequin as instructed. The joint pain was getting worse. I called the Dr. again and they did blood work to rule out arthritis and stuff like that. He put me on prednisone which has significantly helped with the pain. He said it may be a coincidence that I have developed arthritis and that it had nothing to do with the UTI. Well as I was watching TV last night I saw a lawyers commercial for a law suit against levaquin and cipro. Then today got on the internet and found this site. I am going to call the Dr. and tell him to update his little book he looked up the levaquin in. My fear is how long after you stop taking this poison does the joint pain end? I wish I would have known all of this sooner. I will never take this drug again.

I was diagnosed with Diverticulitis and put on the usual regime of Levaquin (500mg a day) and Flagel. The case turned worse and was admitted to the hospital (they thought I had a blockage but turned out did not) and was put on IV of the same medication. Released from the hospital 4 days later and stayed on the Levaquin as prescribed. When I ran out, I called my regular doctor who sent in the renewal prescription. However the his aide made an error and the bottle read 500mg 4 times a day…nobody including the pharmacy caught it. So for 3 days I was taking 2000mg a day of Levaquin. When I started getting worse (truly thought I was dying), I got to the doctor and he said I had taken turn for the worse and could not figure out why. He asked if I was taking the meds and I said yes 4 times a day…his face when white. I had the bottle with me and he panicked. They apologized for the error and I was told to stay off my feet, no heels, they ran ekg’s that day and the following Monday, blood work to check the kidneys etc.

Subsequently, I have had extreme pain in my joints and muscles – everyday, all day. Some days I just cry it hurts so bad. If I bend down I can hardly get back up because of my right knee. I have talked with a doctor I happened to run into about this and she said that Levaquin dosage has saturated my body and gotten into the joint and muscles and takes a long time to work it out. I can hardly lift my arms above my shoulder without severe pain. Stabbing pains in my knees, shoulders, arms and hands.

I have not gone back to the doctor because when I mentioned the pain the when I was in that last time…he just wanted to give me more meds! I have been seeing a massage therapist who specializes in deep tissue restoration and repair. It helps some, but he as well says this is going to take a lot to time to work out.

I have depression to the point of feeling like I am a nothing and what good am I to anyone feeling like this. So like snoop45...that is exactly what i feel like!

dawn62

J.

I was prescribed Leavaquin for pneumonia - 500mgs for 5 days. Have taken it in the past for pneumonia with no observable side effect except the dry mouth. However, this time, I have nausea, diarrhea, excruciating pains in my feet going up to both knees, (despite using lidocaine patches for neuropathy) insomnia, headache, stuffed up nose 3 hours after ingesting it. Additionally, I feel "down", lethargic, lack of clarity in thinking. I am stopping the Levaquin today, the last day. Thanks be to God for this website. I can see that others are suffering the same side effects.

I have had to take Levaquin twice. Both times were for a post surgical infection. The Levaquin worked great on the infection, so I stuck with it even though it made me feel terrible. The side effects I had are: ringing in the ears (tinnitus), agitations/anxiety, dizziness, headache, inability to think straight, nausea, stuffed up nose. They were worse in the few hours after I took the Levaquin. I would take it at dinner, so I could sleep through most of the effects and not have to go to work feeling so bad. Fortunately, I did not suffer the insomnia some have had. After 5 days on it, I also got pain in my finger joints which took 2 weeks after stopping the Levaquin to go away. The pharmacist told me these are unfortunate side effects, but not dangerous enough ones to stop taking the drug. I really don't like this one at all, but I can say it does kill the infection.

I was prescribed a 21 day dose of Levaquin for a case of severe sinusitis. After Day 1 on Levaquin I had severe back, joint and muscle pains. At first I thought I was coming down with the flu. However the flu never appeared.

After about 5 to 6 days the pain became less severe, however my hips, back and legs continued to hurt. During the nights of doses 15 and 16 I woke to splitting headaches and a burning sensation on the left side of my stomach. After reading others' side effects and the commonality with my side effects I quit taking Levaquin after 16 days.

During the 16 days I was taking Levaquin I was extremely irritable and mildly depressed. At night time I would wake up 3 or 4 times and try to get back to sleep. I have never had insomnia problems in my life until taking Levaquin. My joints and body ached the entire time on Levaquin.

The drug was brutal on my body. I will never take it again. I will seek an alternative antibiotic. I have been off Levaquin for 4 days. Sleeping is going much better, however the muscles in my legs and back still hurt.

I have taken three 500mg doses of Levaquin since Saturday. They were prescribed by my urologist for a "possible" minor prostates that might be affecting my PSA (2.2). The very first night I was unable to sleep, tossing and turning all night. Thought nothing of it, and blamed it on diet or too much sleep the previous day. However, insomnia has continued for three straight nights and last night I woke at 4:30 AM with shortness of breath (had to take long deep breaths to feel like I was getting enough oxygen) that felt like an anxiety attack. Although there was no pain, I felt like my heart was pounding and rapid. Finally got a little more sleep and woke up feeling OK in the morning, but blood pressure was elevated. I continually feel like I'm on a caffeine high. I never associated it, but, I woke up second and third days with a sore throat and have had a few minor muscle twitches in arms, legs and abdomen.

I feel fortunate compared to others on this forum. I have stopped taking the Levaquin and have an appointment with my family doctor tomorrow. As a side note, I had an acute prostates this time last year and took Cipro for over one month with no similar side effects that I can recall. Does anyone know if two drugs from the same group can have such different side effects, or can I expect the same problems if I start taking Cipro again?

To make a very long story short, I took this medication for 3 days for a sinus infection and misdiagnosed bronchitis. I was diagnosed on Friday with regional pain disorder. Has anyone else heard of this? My doctor is also saying I have a herniated disc and fractured tailbone, this was also news to me, no pain until after taking the Levaquin and the only back pain I have is leftover from EMC/ECV testing. Also when will the nausea go away? The pain medications seem to be helping with the insomnia, but now I have crazy dreams and just want to get off of this ride. Any help with this would be appreciated as I'm not sure how much more I can stand.

I was given Levaquin after a post surgical Staph infection was confirmed. I too had the side effects described by so many others. Extreme muscle aches, joint pain even in my fingers, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, dizziness. My Dr. said to try to fight through it because the Staph infection needed thia particular antibiotic to cure it. I am 5 days into my 10 day dose and I can't keep taking the pills. I am scared and don't want to end up in the hospital again. He tried to give me a prescription for Bactrim but I said no because i can't take it. I have worse side effects with it than I have the Levaquin. I can't stay wake for more then 1 hour and I dose off but wake up with 15 minutes feeling drained. I can't walk very far without my legs feeling like jello. My WHOLE BODY HURTS!!

I was just prescribed Levaquin (500 mg.) for bronchitis. I received a 10 day supply. The second night, I had trouble sleeping and felt quite anxious. By the 4th night I literally thought I was going to have a heart attack and had trouble swallowing. I called my doctor who blamed the bronchitis and gave me an additional prescription for an inhaler. That evening I slept a total of perhaps 20 minutes. My heart was racing and I felt as if I were choking. Another call to my doctor was placed. She advised I stop using the inhaler. I was becoming increasingly anxious, paranoid and began to have leg cramps. I haven't slept for more than a few minutes at a time for 3 days and the feeling of choking was so bad I had to go to the emergency room. They found it is from the Levaquin. I have never felt so desperate, paranoid, anxious, and horrid in my life. I actually had serious thoughts of ending my life to get away from this feeling. Even though I have been off it for two days, I am still feeling the effects, especially at night and was told I may feel effects for a week.

I was just prescribed Levaquin for a sinus infection/bronchitis. I am a healthy 36 year old who is not currently taking any medications. I got the Leva-pac, 5 days, 750 mg. each. The first night I slept fitfully, but was still feeling the infection, so blamed it on that. The second night, however, was HORRIBLE. Although my sinus symptoms were markedly better, I literally thought I was going to have a heart attack during the night. I had severe insomnia...only slept 20 minutes total from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., and in those 20 minutes I had a horrible nightmare/panic attack, jaring me awake with clenched teeth, profuse sweating and feeling as though I was choking. I was overly anxious, paranoid and had severe leg cramps. My heart was racing and I would alternate between being overly hot and then overly cold in a matter of minutes. It was an experience I never want to have again. My husband insisted I stop the antibiotic even though that is what you should never do with an antibiotic. Even though I have been off two days now, I am still feeling some of the effects, especially at night.

I was prescribed levaquin back in June for bronchitis. I was given 250 mg to be taken once per day for five days. After taking the first pill I had extreme anxiety, racing heartbeat, panic attacks, breathlessness. Then that night, insomnia. I took the drug for four days, and by that time, the added symptoms were photo sensitivity, no appetite, upset stomach, extreme fear and panic, paranoia. There are more, but since my memory was affected, well you know. Anyway, It's been four months since i finished taking them and a lot of those symptoms are still there, the tend to crop up at random times. I never had any of these things before this taking this drug. Don't take this drug! (also, numbness on left check and around mouth that tends to come and go throughout the day.)

On 7-15-08 I had a total abdominal hysterectomy and was given Levaquin thru IV while I was in the hospital.3 weeks to the day later I had a abscess next to my bowel that had to be removed and again was given Levaquin thru IV while I was in the hospital,both times I got very sick right after I was given Levaquin and when I was discharged on the 2nd.trip I was sent home with Levaquin 500mg pills.After taking 2 of the Levaquin pills I again was so sick and could not keep anything down so I called my DR.and explained to him what was going on and I was told I had to keep taking the Levaquin.After a few more days had passed I went into the office to see the DR.and again told him how sick I was and that I was unable to go to sleep,again I was told to continue the Levaquin and that my hormones were out of balance and that was why I was unable to go to sleep.On 9-2-08 I finally went back to work after being off for 7 weeks. I still was suffering from insomnia and was only getting 2-3 hours of sleep a night but was feeling better.On 9-30-08 I had a follow up with my primary care DR.my blood pressure was 211/160 and my pulse was 177 and also had a bad cough with wheezing and was sent straight to the ER.I was admitted and for the next 6 days was given Levaquin thru IV and the more I got the sicker I was to a point I thought I was dying.I ended up with a rash all over my face and finally on day 7 a Lung DR.came into the room and took one look at me and said "oh my god,we have to take you off of that antibiotic")
I was sent home on day 8 and after being home for 3 days all of the Tendons in both legs,ankles,arms,hands and right shoulder were inflamed to a point where the DR.was afraid that they were going to rapture so I was on complete bed rest for 3 weeks.I am now suffering from both ankles swelled and ache all the time along with all of the minerals in my body have completely bottomed out along with the calcium and potassium and also now I have several inflammatory markers in my blood and have to go see a Rheumatology & Arthritis DR.My lungs have also been damaged from Levaquin and I am now using 3 different inhalers and I have never had a breathing problem previous to this.Now for those who have commented that we should have researched the drug before taking the meds in my case I was unable to do so being as though I was given it in the hospital ! I still have no idea how much damage I will be left with and what will be permanent.I will post again when I find out more on the damage that this drug has done to my 44 year old body.

I have just finished Levaquin 500m once a day for 10 days for a horrible sinus infection that would not go away with Zithromax. I am about to finish my Dexpak(dexamethasone) tapered dose in 4 days. I have taken Levaquin and dexamethasone before with no problems. This time I have insomnia and the worst joint pain. I am 33 years old and 135 pounds I feel like an inactive obese 70 year old. I can't sleep right now because my joints are killing me. It is even hard to sit on the toilet and get off the toilet. I find my food sits in my chest. I have started taking Probiotics and I put a heating pad on my chest which feels like a board after I eat. I am glad I am finished the medication and only hope I start feeling better. Good luck everyone.

I was prescribed Levaquin in July 2008 for a kidney infection - 500 mg for 7 days. I experienced insomnia, muscle cramping in my calfs, and aching a chilies tendon while taking the drug. Approximately 5 days post Levaquin I started having generalized muscle twitching (head to toe) which is intensely noticed at rest, severe anxiety, burning sensation, vibratory sensation, and most recently weakness accompanied w/ pain in my right arm. I have seen 4 separate doctors in 3 months and have had blood work done along with an MRI of my brain. All tests came back normal... I am scheduled for an EEG and EMG this coming week - which too will probably come back normal. Between all of my doctors I have been diagnosed w/ a virus, anxiety disorder, fibromyalgia, and a mild case of Guillain-Bairre Syndrome. Luckily all the doctors have agreed that they do not believe I have MS or ALS. Before the kidney infection I was healthy and RARELY made a visit to the doctors. I have issued a Medwatch Report to the FDA as I am completely convinced that my medical issues are related to Levaquin. I have been dealing with these symptoms now for 3 months and would appreciate any feedback from individuals who have experienced the same side effects and what they may have done to ease the symptoms.

Hello everyone, I did a posting on Sept 27th will my adverse reaction to levaquin. Well, I did a lot of research as to how to help with the side effects. In addition, I discussed the side effects with a friend in medical school to see what he could come up with. I did not even bother going back to my doctor because from many stories that is just a waste of time.

Anyway, its been about 3 weeks and my side effects have gotten much better. Not totally gone...but much, much better. Everything was from my local drug store.

Here is what I did:
Do a colon cleanse or detox regimine right away. Get as much of this stuff out of your system as possible.

Fish oil LIQUID FORM one teaspoon a day (yuck...but do it!)

Bromelain to help with the joint inflammation

Glucosamine to help with joint repair. I got both a pill form as well as liquid. I used this product by Drinkables called Liquid Joint Care Dietary Supplement. Anything in liquid form absorbs quicker.

I also had to resort to getting a sleep aid for the insomnia, you need to get good sleep somehow to help your body repair.

Last but not least, and I know it sounds strange. One small shot of clear vodka a day. It's an old Russian remedy...I guess it has a cleansing effect on the body.

Anyway, somehow all of this really did help. Good Luck!

I was prescribed LEVAQUIN 500mg/day for 30 days. In that duration this is the list of side effects: diarrhea, sleep disorders, insomnia or excessive, and I mean excessive fatique, washing the dishes made me want to nap. heart racing, trouble breathing, tingling sensation either on my left or right side of my body, headaches. I actually finished the script, and now I have a yet undiagnosed skin condition which looks similar to MRSA, but the culture came back negative. The skin sores are very painful, so my doctor put me on DOXYCYCLINE 400mg/day for 2 mos, it didnt help the skin condition and only worsened the effects of LEVAQUIN, now my doctor has me on BACTRIM, because he is convinced it is MRSA. I am also suffering from severe depression, i never contemplate suicide, yet i would drift in and out of daydreams of wanting to quit, dizziness, when I was on LEVAQUIN my equilibrium was completely off. This skin condition is very painful, and I am on my 3rd antibiotic since June. I think I need help too!

I was prescribed 7 days 750mg of Levaquin on 9/10 and finished 9/16. I was originally diagnosed with bronchitis but went back to the Dr. yesterday cause I was not doing any better and he now says it's viral. I've gone to the hospital because I passed out on 9/13 and continue to faint at least once a day. I have tingling/numbness in my hands, ankles, toes, my knees hurt, my lower back is in a lot of pain, almost to where it is not tolerable, I'm dehydrated (I'm drinking and eating, just not as much) it is extremely painful to eat, my tongue and my gums hurt terribly. Last night I had a horrible dream (I don't dream usually, not nightmares) and today I started to hallucinate (mildly) A week ago I was functioning normally, a mother of 3, playing with my kids and now I can hardly walk without assistance, I can't go to work, I'm in constant pain. Someone please give me some kind of guidance. Will these feelings ever go away? What should I do? Thank you!!!!

I am 23 years old. I was prescribed Levaquin 750mg for a uti. I took my first pill at 3:00pm yesterday. That night, I wasn't able to sleep. I layed in bed, so tired, just wanting to fall asleep but couldn't. Then the cold sweats and trouble breathing started. By 2:00 a.m. I was having what I can only describe as a panic attack. It's 1:00pm the next day, and i've never felt this bad. THIS MEDICINE IS NOT GOOD.

I had a hip replacement in June, then contracted a staph infection after that (non-MRSA, thank goodness!), for which I have been on a 12 week antibiotic protocol, in addition to having the hip opened again for cleaning and replacement. For the first 6 weeks, I had a PICC line in my arm, which was infusing Oxacillin every four hours 24/7, as well as two oral doses per day of Rifampin. After the removal of the PICC line, I was put on a daily dose of 750 mg of Levaquin (I was also on Levaquin in the hospital, and couldn't sleep for weeks after coming home from the hospital). I have now been on Levaquin for 4 weeks and have incredible pain. The first symptom and most annoying was insomnia, as well as EXTREME rotator ruff pain, stiff fingers, tendor pain in my left elbow, and right knee. I can't walk well, the bottoms of my feet hurt (what's up with that?), and I can't even put on my bra by myself, my shoulders hurt so much. I thought I could take the pain because I just DO NOT want to have the staph infection come back and have another hip replacement, but I think I will actually have to go off of it. It's just too much pain. And I'm worried about long term damage.

I have been on 500mg Levaquin for approximately 10 days, and thought I was doing fine. I did notice that I felt a bit hyper, but not enough to bother me. Then, last night, I simply could not sleep. I have had insomnia at times in the past, and I have found that mild sedatives such as Valium and Ativan work quite well in small doses. But last night, even after taking Valium, I was simply wide awake. There was nothing particular on my mind - I just couldn't sleep. I got up at 3am to pay bills out of sheer boredom laying in bed. Ultimately, I got a total of two hours sleep. I decided to research if the insomnia and overall hyper feelings might be a side effect of the Levaquin, and read the insert for the first time. And there it is on the first line of side effects - difficulty sleeping. Then I Googled it, and found this site. Apparently, I am not alone. So today, I will contact my MD, and most likely suspend the Levaquin.

Update on my post of Aug. 11th. I did see a neurologist who was a bit skeptical, but after looking it up did acknowledge that this drug can cause tendon ruptures, etc. Later that week he did a nerve conduction study, both the one with the needles and the one where they shock the muscles. He was happy to report that I did not have any "nerve" damage. I had already told him that I did not think I had neuropathy as the numbness had gone away and was just replaced by the constant pain in my joints, etc. I then went to see my rheumatologist who was also just as skeptical that the drug could be causing all the pain I was describing. She said she had had three patients with tendon ruptures, but nothing else. I really don't care what she believes, and I told her so. I know what happened and what horrible pain I have been in ever since. I hate to report that the pain in my feet, knees, hands, hips, back and now my neck are not any better. My insomnia is some better, but I am taking more Lyrica. I tried a different antibiotic yesterday for the sinus infection called Clindamycin. OMG! I took one pill and within a few minutes had unbelievable heartburn. That lasted for 12 hours, along with reflux, burping, weird stomach noises. Now, I can't take that. Doctor called in a prescription for Augmentin this morning. Afraid to try anything now, but guess I will give it a shot. Is anyone getting any better from their joint or muscle pain? Some encourgement would be good. Thanks.

Hi

I just ran upstairs to look at what Antibiotic I was on last and it's the same one. I got a rash on about day 7 and googled it and saw all the patients with lots and lots of complications. Actually I mentioned this to the doctor when I went back and she said lots of people react badly to it ...she could even take it. You think they should have to warn you of the serious side effects ...
I wonder why they are using this antibiotic all of a sudden as I have never heard of it before!!!
Interesting ....you should have this in your medical records in case you are in an accident.

There are on line sites that people post reactions to things that others can read....you should add yours....like I said SCARY!!!!

Jackie



-------------- Original message --------------
From: "Heather" ******
I just googled Levaquin and read this: Quinolones, including LEVAQUIN, may also cause central nervous system stimulation which may lead to tremors, restlessness, anxiety, lightheadedness, confusion, hallucinations, paranoia, depression, nightmares, insomnia, and rarely, suicidal thoughts or acts. That describes what happened to me.

Im only 16 years old and ive been on levaquin for about 3 days now. My doctor told me off the bat that the only thing wrong with the drug were some "theories" on cartilidge damage, how ever, now i see for myself, and for many other people that is not the only side effect. He told me that no one under 18 is supposed to have it but i caught a severe case of sinutitus, and a uti which ive had for 2 months and nothing was working, so he put me on levaquin, once a day for 7 days. Ive now been having the following symptoms and im extremely scared!!
1. Constant fatigue
2. Extreme Migraines
3. Nausea, vomiting
4. Rapid heart beat (and chest pain)
5. Stiffness in joints and horrible pain...
6. Constant anxiousness, to where i cant get to sleep
7. Dizziness

Is there anyone i can talk to who's had these same problems? please email me or something im scared and i don't know what to do my mother doesn't believe me and she says its just a head cold....

******

Please help me!!

I was prescribed 750 mg. Levaquin, one a day for 14 days for a severe sinus infection. We left to visit my son and family in Texas two days after starting the medicine. The entire time we were there I could not sleep. The second day we were there I was walking down the stairs when a pain hit me in my left calf that was so bad I thought I had surely torn a muscle or something worse. It continued to be painful for several days. We returned in four days and I noticed that I was aching all over. I have arthritis and some other problems, so didn't think too much about it. However, it continued to get much worse. My feet hurt so badly that I could hardly bear to walk. My heels are especially painful. I cannot bend my toes without terrible pain and my feet have been swollen. I have sharp tingling pain in my toes as well. My hips and knees are very painful. I am shuffling around just trying to walk and get up and down. I started having a strange pain in my right shoulder area. Am still having insomnia. This is very scary and after reading all the posts it is even more frightening since you don't know what to expect even further down the road. I have an appointment in the morning with a neurologist. I don't know what they can do and I don't want to be put on a bunch of other drugs. I just hope he acknowledges that the Leviquan caused this and doesn't try to come up with some excuse. I have absolutely no doubt the Leviquan caused this as it was immediate and continued to get worse as I took it. I stopped after 11 days and only wish I had stopped sooner, but you just keep making excuses for the weird things that are happening until you finally realize there is something very wrong. I have experienced a lot of pain in my life, but nothing like this. My brother has acute leukemia and has horrible neuropathy in his hands/arms, feet/legs caused by a clinical trial with two chemotherapy drugs. Now I am afraid I may have it in my feet, or something as bad. If the doctor has anything worth reporting I will let you know. Good luck to everyone and thanks for listening.

I was prescribed Levaquin for a bout of diverticulitis six weeks ago. About a half hour after taking it each morning, I felt completely unwell--dizziness, fatigue, overall weakness, odd sensations of pressure in my head, chest, and bladder, weird bouts of sudden joint pain. The worst side effect was terrible insomnia. I'd go to sleep OK, but wake up after 3 hours and not be able to get back to sleep, sometimes for the rest of the night. Instead of getting the rest I needed to get better, I was getting more and more exhausted. Now, a month after stopping the medication, my sleep hasn't returned to normal. I'm still awake in the middle of the night for two or more hours. Is this a residual side effect from Levaquin? Has anyone else experienced it? When can I expect my sleep to improve? Is there a way to detoxify from this drug?

Yes, sounds like we're on the same trip! Insomnia for 3 of 5 days so far, sleeping only 3 hrs a night, neck pain as well as knee and lower back. Oh! yeah, the queasiness and feeling like I want to jump out of my own skin. Should of asked for the 500mg dose vs 750mg. Unable to sleep during the day so I've had very little sleep.

I have been on 500mg of Levaquin for 8 out of a 10 day course. I can barely hold my head up, have a headache and severe neck and muscle pain. My stomach is so queezy and I have been unable to get a full night sleep.

Anyone experiencing the same?
I am afraid to take the last 2 days of the course.

Began taking Levaqauin on/about 19Mar08. Became symptomatic (agitation + insomnia followed by a host of psychiatric ills) within eight weeks. I'm in a living hell now, which might or might not be related to flouroquinolone, e.g., levaquin poisoning. There are more than 2000+ posting on this site that go back five or so years. Most of the postings constitute one-way communiques from hell. (Go ahead, read a representative sampling of the postings.) Here's the question: what became of these people who wrote their awful posts? Are they still alive? Did they find cures? How does one contact some of the earlier posters?

Question for you all. I have been on levaquin for 6 days 750 mg. For the last 3 to 4 days my hands have been killing me and it is getting worse, my knees, and shoulders hurt now. After reading your remarks I am calling doc first thing in the morning. Please let me know if you have any advice for me.

i just now started my first dose of levaquin 750 mg , 5 pills / 1 per day.. ill let u know how it goes.. i see all these posting on insomnia which sounds horrible because i got work Wednesday, (today is Monday).. keep ya posted...

I was diagnosed with pneumonia 12 days ago and put on Levaquin because of it. I have felt like a totally different person and not in a good way. I have not slept more than 2-3 hours per night since beginning this antibiotic, I have been depressed, crying and fatigued. I am normally very emotionally stable but the insomnia has been a nightmare. I will never take this medication again. I appreciate all the postings on this site that helped me know that I wasn't going crazy - Levaquin was doing that to me.

I'm a 31 female. I was diagnosed with bronchitis/sinusitis on 5/28 and was given Biaxin which did not help. I was instructed to return to the doctor if I did not feel better within 2 to 3 days. On Monday 6/2 I returned to the doctors per instructions because I was not feeling better. He switched me to Levaquin 500mg 1 a day. I took Levaquin at 8pm Monday evening. I was unable to sleep that evening so I researched the medication the following morning and saw that Insomnia was a side effect. Starting at 10am today 6/6 I begun severe hip pain in my right hip. I called the doctor and they instructed me to stop taking the medicine for 24 hours and begin treatment again if the pain reduces. After reading this information I'm now reluctant to start "if" the pain subsides.

We are looking for people who can participate in a documentary film to be shot in Los Angeles which focuses on the apparent adverse effects of Levaquin. Specifically, we are looking for people who have experienced cartilage damage or burst and ruptured tendons as a result of using Levaquin. It is especially useful if you have a doctor's opinion that the damage was caused by Levaquin. If you or someone you know would be interested in taking part in this film which will shoot in Los Angeles in mid-June 2008 please email us at ******

I have been taking Levaquin for sinus infection after Augmentin didn't keep it from coming back. All I can say is that I am completely exhausted. I wonder if it is the drug or something else. No muscle pain. I don't know if I should stop taking it or continue. Tonight I was walking for exercise and couldn't finish because I thought I might faint. My heart was beating and I was shaking. Do you think it is the drug? HELP!