October 24th
2009
8:40 PM
In addition to all I mentioned in my posting before, I am now having burning skin feeling and my shirt can't touch my skin sometimes without it burning, hurting.
Has anyone heard if this drug leaves your system or not???
-- By jennifera4 | Reply | (3) replies | Private Message me
October 23th
2009
1:09 PM
I was in the hospital for a gall bladder surgery 2 weeks ago and found out while in there I had a UTI. The doctor's at the hospital put me on Clarithromycin the first day. Then my family Dr. came in and changed it to Levaquin via IV drip for another 6 days. I was then prescribed 2 pills for when I got home to take. The first 2 days in the hospital I had pain in my shoulder and I know that was from the air they blew into me for the surgery. BUT, after that, I have had continued shoulder, neck pain and now has spread into my wrists, my legs, virtually I feel like one big ache. Last night, I had to take my shirt off because it was hurting my skin for the shirt to touch it. My sense of taste is weird too. I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome but I know that my pain right now is a direct result from Levaquin. I went in to fix one problem and came out with another one. Like I need that! I feel for all of you. I identify with most all of your complaints. I was on the drug for 10 days. I can barely grasp anything without pain in my left hand. I don't know what to do. Does this go away? Or is this permanent?
-- By jennifera4 | Reply | Private Message me
October 14th
2009
4:06 PM
I have only taken 2 pills and on my third day, I have decided not to take any other doses. I have not been able to sleep! Fortunately, I read these posts so I will be on the lookout for any other symptoms that develop later.
Hopefully, I stopped taking this in time to avoid the rest of it. I don't understand why doctor's continue to prescribe this if they really have the best interest of their patients in mind?!
October 8th
2009
8:57 AM
Make you feel like your on crack.... then again i broke the pills up and tossed em in me pipe. Feeling so high X . X
RECOMMEND TO ALL
-- By crackhead | Reply | (1) replies | Private Message me
September 4th
2009
9:40 PM
I took levaquin (750) for a bronchial infection about 9 months ago. My doctor gave me individual samples with no info. on any side effects. Like most people, I trusted my doctor and took the pills without question. The aftermath has been a complete nightmare as I have suffered severe joint pain, depression and an atypical anxiety that at times that feels like a drug induced brain fog. I've seen numerous specialist searching for an underlying process causing the symptoms but nothing is ever found. Since the beginning I've contended that the Levaquin was at the root of my problem, but no doctor has ever given that thought any consideration. Prior to the Levaquin I was perfectly fine with no history of any joint pains or mood disorders. Does anyone have any ideas on how to reverse or heal the process?
-- By walnuts93 | Reply | (1) replies | Private Message me
August 17th
2009
9:50 PM
Started taking Levaquin Friday afternoon for a bad UTI. That night I had trouble sleeping. The next day I woke up with horrible pain in my mid and lower back and in the backs and sides of my legs. My right ankle was also in a lot of pain. I took 4 doses. By now I am completely miserable. My stomach hurts and I'm bloated and quite nauseated. The pain in my back and legs feel much like labor pains. Today the back of my knees and down my calves hurt. It's hard to explain the agitation feeling I'm having. I feel miserable. I looked up side effects today and realized it's the Levaquin. Good grief, why don't they tell people this?? I cannot wait for these side-effects to be gone.
They are switching me to yet another anti-biotic which I start tomorrow with much apprehension! But, my cultures came back very high and I will need to continue on something for another week.
-- By kimgrizz | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
August 10th
2009
4:37 PM
My Mother took Levaquin Oct. of 2008. You got so sick taking the drug, she felt like she had the flu. She had fever, dizziness, and felt like she was going to throw up. She is very depressed now because she can't do anything anymore. She took all 7 pills 500mg. each. Now she hurts from head to toe. They can't figure out what is wrong with her. She has had MRI's. xrays. Blood work. Everything you can think of. Her Tendon tore in her shoulder, she had surgery on it and is still in rehab for that. She can sleep at night because of pain throughout her body. They gave her a patch to wear for the pain and it made is better at first. Now she can't even tell she has it on. Does anyone know of anything that can help get out of all this pain?
-- By tinafaye | Reply | Private Message me
August 7th
2009
12:25 PM
I started taking levaquin about a week ago. At first, I was doing fine but then I started to get fevers. Next thing I know, I have full blown flu systems and break out in a crazy rash. I have to go to urgent care. I kept calling the nurse and asking her if it was the antibiotics. She indicated that levaquin was very well tolerated and that she did not think it was the pills. After reading these posts I am confident it is the pills.
-- By kasia222 | Reply | (1) replies | Private Message me
August 5th
2009
11:38 AM
I was prescribed 500 mg Levaquin for 10 days, after the third day I started having pain in my lower back and left shoulder. The pain got much worse and I knew there was something wrong, I googled levaquin and realized it was the drug causing my pain I discontinued the drug immediately (had 5 more pills remaining) and went to my doctor, he said he "doubts" its the levaquin...and that I should continue taking it! I insisted he gives me a different drug. He is usually very nice and always give me and my family free samples (we don't have insurance) I am really surprised that he would give me a drug like this without warning me of the side effects and even worse he refuses to acknowledge that levaquin is the cause of my pain..
-- By khouli | Reply | Private Message me
July 19th
2009
7:50 AM
I've been on a 7 day regime of Levaquin 500mg for an a infection that wasn't cured by other antibiotics and I can say it's worked. Yea I had a some muscle craps in the legs and some leg pain and a first day bout of nausea but overall, it's worked great for me.
I'd suggest that anyone on it do as my doctor said and either eat at least 1 cup of yogurt a day and/or take a Probiotics pill. The antibiotic/any antibiotic kills the "good germs" that help raise your bodies immune system and helps with digestion and the Yogurt/Probitic pills help grow the "good bacteria" back and ease the side effects while on it. Good luck to all
-- By sjoseph2000 | Reply | Private Message me
July 15th
2009
10:52 PM
I was diagnosed with pneumonia on July 6 and prescribed Levaquin 500 mg for 10 days. I took my last pill tonight and could not understand the pain in my right hip, red eyes which I suspect comes from the insomnia I have been experiencing since July 10. I am still having difficulty sleeping and tonight I feel extremely tire with discomfort in the back and shoulders. I wish I had read these comments earlier, I would have discontinue using this drug. I have not experience any depression, but lack of appetite, stomach pain and upset stomach. I have had intermittent diarrhea. How long will it take for this drug to get out of my system.
-- By hhutchinson | Reply | (3) replies | Private Message me
May 8th
2009
9:48 AM
I have been taking this Leviquin for 4 days. I have had severe cramps in my calves and feet in the middle of the night. So bad that I get up and try to step em' off but to no avail. My muscles hurt so bad in my legs arms and I have been very sick to my stomach. Do these things go away? I am not taking one more of those pills. I would rather have sinus and bronchitis problems than deal with these horrific side effects!! Any feed back?
-- By bobbij123 | Reply | (4) replies | Private Message me
April 19th
2009
7:14 PM
I am a 40 year old male diabetic insulin dep. for 31 yrs.I was in the hosp. for 1 month with pneumonia in both lungs, I was given levaquin for the time i was in the hosp. then given 500mg pills. I have been getting pain in my shoulders and chest area. after a week out of the hosp. Also been have been depressed but have been taking drugs for that. Dont know what to do!?
-- By wildman666 | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
March 7th
2009
5:08 PM
I had a sinus infection and the doctor gave me azithromycin 250mg in what is referred to as a Z-pack, unfortunately that didn't do the job so he gave me Levaquin 500mg 1tablet a day for seven days. I had many of the side effects, a headache everyday I was taking it, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, etc. Drank a ton of water as it said to do. On the second day after I was finished with the pills I started having pretty bad knee pain, then swollen knees and ankles. I mean really swollen. And I too have many stairs and it is very painful to get around, can't bend my knees too much with all the swelling. Am still drinking the water and hoping to flush this out of my system as fast as possible. It did get rid of my sinus infection, but I'm not sure it was worth all this...
-- By vickieg | Reply | Private Message me
March 3th
2009
5:07 PM
Returned yesterday from 3 days in the hospital. Rapid heartbeat and pain in the chest sent me to the ER. The heart enzyme tests showed that I'd had a mild heart attack but an echocardiogram showed my arteries were fine and there was no damage to the heart. They call me "the mystery lady". No mystery to me! It's been 2 weeks since stopping Levaquin after 5 pills of 500 mg. I've been suffering with constant headaches, severe neck, shoulder, arms and elbow pain and am convinced that the heart problems are all part of the results of taking Levaquin. I'm drinking Aloe Vera Juice, and taking calcium, magnesium, garlic, Omega 3 fish oil, and lots of water. No one seems to know what works!
-- By holybowler | Reply | Private Message me
February 21th
2009
2:26 PM
There may be no way to get Levaquin out of one's body except time. But I wanted to at least try to speed it up. I don't know if it will work for me or others, only time will tell. There is genetics involved since each of us has a unique tolerance for Levaquin. But here is what I am doing:
1. 8 glasses of water daily with fresh-squeezed lemon juice.
2. Lots of fiber - a tblsp of wheat bran 3 times a day with more water.
3. Plain yogurt with live active cultures 5 times a day.
4. A hot bath with epsom salts once a day.
5. Magnesium, Calcium and Iron, a couple of times a day.
6. Vitamins B and C a few times a day.
7. Body Cleanse and Liver Cleanse from the drug store, as directed.
I took 7 Levaquin pills and stopped 10 days ago. Some symptoms have improved. Notably, my appetite is better, the bloated stomach is gone and food moves through normally, anxiety spells are gone, the brain fog is still there but maybe a slightly better each day.
I will be watching my body for any signs of tendon pain in the 12 - 18 months ahead. No pain so far, but Levaquin is capable of doing damage with the pain not felt until later. I will ease back into exercising very slowly over the coming months.
I will be posting updates periodically over the next couple of years. I am a 50 year-old man.
Good luck to all and God bless.
-- By bobcat5239 | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
February 20th
2009
3:30 AM
I had a very bad time with bronchitis my doctor prescribed Levaquin 750mg. 2/19/09 I took one tablet around 6PM this evening it is now 3AM I am wide awake. Out of no where I was hullucinating, I thought I was at a house with my husband, my cat called my cell phone and was meowing that my baby had fallen out the bed and was crying. I am single I do not have children. My body and head felt like things are crawling on me. I knew something was happening to me I got out of bed and googled "What is Levaquin?" The only thing on the prescription bottle is to TAKE THIS MEDICATION WITH PLENTY OF WATER. My stomach feels nauseous I am going to drink as much water as I can to get this stuff out of my body as quick as possible. The pharmacy did not put the usual explanation of the drug and the side affects in the prescription bag. I'm so thankful that this is the first site that came up. I pray that I won't have any other problems later today. I will not take anymore of these pills, I just paid $224 for 7 pills. The other six pills are going to be flushed.
-- By darpau | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
February 19th
2009
10:45 AM
I am scared to death after reading what everyone is going through. I was put on Levaquin for 10 days and got to day 9. My joints ached so bad I thought I had arthritis, and even had my Dr. do blood tests for it (I had no idea it was the Levaquin). I am only 35 years old and never worried about arthritis before this. Also, within 5 days I started developing hives all over. Again, I was stupid and didn't realize until day 9 that the hives were because of this med. I told my Dr. and he told me to stop taking it which of course I did. I assumed the hives would go away after the med was out of my system. But a week later the hives were unbearable. I was put on prednisone (another issue altogether) and that helped the itching, but now every time I try to go off or back off the prednisone the hives come back- and they are terrible! Now my Dr. thinks the hives were from something else because there is no way that the Levaquin is still in my body. But after reading what other people are going through on this med, I am convinced this stuff is as everyone says- POISON!! I am so worried about the joint and hip pain that was so bad I couldn't stand for long without excruciating pain in my right hip. It felt like I had a one hundred pound weight just sitting on it. And my hands were the worst. I have a newborn and could barely pick him up without worry that I'd drop him. I don't know what to do.. Is there anything to do?? I'm still on the prednisone, and have been for a month. I need to get off of it but every time I do I itch so bad with the hives that I cannot function. Also because of the prednisone I noticed last night that I am getting "moon face" my face is swelling up and there are a million side effects from that drug too. How long does this last? Has anyone else fought the hives that come with this? Please help me, I am so scared!
-- By jennturner6 | Reply | (4) replies | Private Message me
February 11th
2009
2:06 PM
I am taking Levaquin now, but after reading all of this I plan on not finishing the 3 pills I have left. My head is numb and feeling so weird. I have a constant headache which I hardly ever have and I feel dizzy and really out of it. My stomach is sick and nauseated. Feeling almost depressed which I don't know why. I just don't feel right. My shoulders feel heavy and tingly and I feel more sick now than when I started taking it 7-8 days ago.
-- By clymerclan | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
February 7th
2009
11:22 PM
I was prescribed 750 mg per day yesterday for 5 days for bronchitis. I took my second pill today and I cannot bare weight on my legs, the achiness and knee pain is excruciating. My husband called my brother-in-law to help get me to the car so we could go to the emergency room. While we were waiting for him, I looked at my prescription info because that was the only thing different. I am also allergic to sulfa drugs and thought it could be a reaction to the meds. I called the pharmacist and was told this was not a common side effect but definitely could be from the drug and to stop taking it. We didn't go to the er but decided to wait and see if this would become better. I can't walk and I'm 42 years old! After 2 pills!!!
-- By hatethismed | Reply | (1) replies | Private Message me
February 1th
2009
4:58 PM
After 4 days in the hospital with the colon infection and some antibiotics treatment via I.V. I walked home, I was fine. All I needed was to have 7 x 500mg in coming week.
After three days and 3 of 500mg Levaquin pills very itchy reddish rash developed in a day all over my entire back where I have solid areas , bottom, parts of the arms and upper chest and neck where I have dense spots..
I used the Witch hazel and Aloe Vera Mist (no help) till I’ve got hold of the Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream. No help yet in last 4 hours. I’ll try Calamine lotion next.
Boy it itches I didn’t sleep all night. I never had any allergies before.
January 21th
2009
10:35 PM
My wife has been dealing with a urinary tract infection, and the medications she has been taking have not worked, so her doctor prescribed Levaquin. She took the first 500 mg tablet last evening and within an hour she had the shakes and could barely walk, stumbling around like the Planet of the Apes. Today she couldn't urinate and had to be catheterized. She threw the rest of the pills away. This stuff is trouble!
-- By mudshark | Reply | Private Message me
January 5th
2009
5:37 PM
I was given Levaquin for a prostate infection. They prescribed me 750 mg for 30 days. I have been off of the drug for 3 weeks and I still have pain in my tendons. Shoulder tendons, knees, elbow and hands. How long can this last? I feel like I am dying.
-- By dragoon6 | Reply | (3) replies | Private Message me
January 4th
2009
10:01 AM
My mom was put on Levaquin for 3 days to follow up on a Colitis diagnosis. She began hallucinating, hearing voices, can't sleep, loss of balance, among other things. We suspect it's Levaquin and took her off yesterday.....how long until she gets back to normal? She seems to be getting worse even though she is off it now.
-- By jikajobe | Reply | (4) replies | Private Message me
December 23th
2008
4:27 AM
On Sunday I went to the emergency hospital due to a infection from some minor dental sugary (Tooth pulled) on Friday. I had puffed up with infection on the whole side of my face. My dentist advised me to go to emergency so that they could give me some antibiotics that get in my system quicker.
I was given Levaquin in an IV I was never informed of any side effects. I was fine for a few hrs. then I started experiencing racing heart and anxiety and could not sleep or concentrate on anything. I felt weak in my legs. It is now Monday evening at 1:18 AM I am still experiencing occasional heart flutters and am still awake although I am finally starting to slow down.
I feel like I was on speed for the past 2 days. . I was also given a 10 500MG tabs of levaquin to take. I am not taking them I am glad I looked up this drug. I hope that there will be no other side effects and stopped before taking the pills
I am really upset that I was not informed of these possible side effects at the hospital and was not given the change to say no to it.
All the bad things that this drug does and an IV bag full and it did not get rid of my infection in my face completely still have swelling.
Guess I am going to my doctor and ask for my Keeflex 500 Mg that I never had a problem with.
-- By belladonna | Reply | (1) replies | Private Message me
December 22th
2008
3:46 PM
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.
-- By janchappell | Reply | (6) replies | Private Message me
December 20th
2008
7:44 AM
I was prescribed 7 Levaquin (3- 750mg and 4- 500mg) on Friday December 12th 2008 for an ear infection. I was to take the 3- 750mg ones for the next 3 days and then start on the last 4- 500mg. The next evening Saturday, I started to get sharp pains in my left calf. I thought it was a charley horse and started limping around with pain. During the night I felt as if I was lying on golf balls and could not get comfortable.
The next morning the pain in the calf included soreness in the left hip area. I took an over-the-counter pain pill and went on my business. I also took the second 750mg Levaquin Saturday morning. Later that afternoon my right calf starting hurting with sharp pain as I walked around the house. This was really weird. The pain was exactly in the same area as the left side.
On Sunday morning (December 14th 2008) I took the 3rd 750mg Levaquin. That evening I started to put two and two together and had some thoughts the medication (Levaquin) was causing these side effects. I told my wife that I was going call my doctor on Monday (December 15th 2008) and let him know how much pain I was in. At this time I could hardly walk. I was walking with much pain and felt like I was walking like the Apes in the movie called “Planet of the Apes”.
I was now on the 500mg Levaquin. I took this pill Monday as scheduled. I called my doctors office Monday morning and talked to the lady that answered his phone. I explained my condition. She had me describe my symptoms twice. She told me she would give my message to my doctor. I did not receive a return that same day.
Tuesday morning I took the next 500mg Levaquin as scheduled required. Later that day I received a call from a lady at my doctor’s office. She told me that the doctor was going to phone in an additional prescription and where did I want it phoned to. I asked her what the doctor said about the additional 2- 500mg Levaquin pills I had left. Did he want me to stop taking them? She told me he didn’t say and he made no comment on my side effects.
My wife called the Pharmacist later Tuesday afternoon and the prescription was not there or not ready.
Wednesday morning I took the 2nd to last 500mg Levaquin dose as scheduled. Later that morning my wife called the Pharmacist and my new prescription was ready. We went and picked up the new medication that afternoon.
At this time I only had one more dose of the 500mg Levaquin and seeing-how the doctor didn’t tell me to stop taking the remaining last couple of pills I took it on Thursday morning to finish out the prescription.
I’ve been off Levaquin for about 3 days now. It’s now Sunday December 20, 2008 and many of my joints and muscles are in distress. I walk with much pain. I can hardly life my arm above my shoulders. Even my hands hurt when I try to make a fist. I hope this drug starts to wear off soon.
Along with my other medical problems, I have been starting to have thoughts of how unimportant I am. How I could become a burden to my family. My depression has gotten worse and thoughts of suicide have flashed into my mind. Those thoughts give me chills because I love my wife and know how much that would hurt her. I love life but I don’t want to get to the point that I can’t take care of myself. God must give me the courage to do what I have to do. I don’t know why I’m writing down the above information. This is so personal. This can’t be happing to me. It just doesn’t seem possible. I feel the pain in each of my joints in my hands as I type. It is as though I was not myself. I look at my hands and it seems as if I was in someone else’s body. I’m sure this is side effects of the Levaquin and should subside soon. Merry Christmas Everyone.
December 15th
2008
6:56 AM
Hello, I have read over most of these side effects and i would have to agree and be afraid of most of it. See I was diagnosed with bronchitis/pneumonia, they prescribed me these pills along with steroids. I have not taken the steroids yet but I did take my first dose of levaquin about 12 hours ago around 8 pm. With my dinner and plenty of water and fluids. I went to bed late with my fiance but not cause of the medicine, we decided to stay up and watch movies. Although, it did help my coughing and breathing, I felt bloated or ballooned up all of a sudden and it was starting to hurt my stomach. I figured it was the food I ate and all the water I have been drinking. So, next I noticed some minor vaginal discharge of which looks like when I'm ovulation so I pasted that as that. Now I woke up at 5:30 in the morning when I went to bed at 2 am and I can't go back to sleep! I woke up from a nightmare to see things in the dark to scare the %$^* out of me. I had this really bad taste and dryness to my mouth I felt like it was suffocating me. I cant seem to think straight or type well (I had to go back and review what I wrote but I might not have gotten all my mistakes) I feel like I have ADD I keep forgetting how to spell simple words... I mean the list keeps going and going. I am writing now because I am currently on it. I will not be taking this medication anymore much less the steroids but if anyone reads this, I hope you read first then take.
-- By latinava16 | Reply | (5) replies | Private Message me
December 7th
2008
11:48 AM
DO NOT TAKE THIS POISON!! I have spent the last 4 years dealing with
adverse side effects of this medication. I have central nervous system damage, digestive disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, dizziness, achiness-it feels like a really really bad flu. My dad who is a doctor didn't believe that Levaquin was the cause at first however he had a chemist look up the compound makeup and was told to never prescribe this or any other fluoroquinolone again (cipro, avelox, etc!) Side effects can last long after you finish this medication. Also animals can get this stuff so it can be in the meat you eat which will make you feel worse or it could kill your beloved pets. Do your research. Warn friends and family-even strangers. Make a mediwatch report. Helpful sites if you are dealing with poisoning.
There is also a yahoo group.
December 3th
2008
6:46 PM
After taking 5 750mg pills I had taste problems and a very dry mouth with sores, irritated tongue. I still after stopping about 10 days ago have some taste problems and dry mouth during sleep which makes me wake up.
-- By la28be | Reply | Private Message me
October 28th
2008
5:57 PM
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.
September 17th
2008
1:42 PM
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!!!!
-- By momma3 | Reply | (6) replies | Private Message me
September 11th
2008
12:55 PM
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.
-- By calc | Reply | (3) replies | Private Message me
August 26th
2008
12:05 PM
I have some of everything above and am in so much pain that I feel as if I am dying a slow, painful death. I am on heavy pain meds and even with those I have severe abdominal cramping. I don't know what I would do if I didn't have this pain relief. I am very worried as to what is happening to me internally. They are scheduling cat scans and I am awaiting a phone call to get something diagnostic done. This all started 8/15 and not only are things not easing up, but I think this is getting worse. I also have a urethral discharge, UTI, and alternating constipation and diarrhea. Initially, I had a 102 degree fever and now my temp is low, only 97.1! my husband plans on calling a lawyer today, 8/26. One day I passed brown urine and it shocked me! I'd appreciate hearing from others as I feel so alone in this horrible nightmare which is unfolding! FYI, my doctor feels that my muscle tissue is breaking down...has anyone heard anything like this from their doctor? The stomach and abdominal pains are like labor!
-- By rubellaumbrella | Reply | (4) replies | Private Message me
August 21th
2008
10:05 PM
I've been taking Levaquin for about 3 weeks. Last week, suddenly, every joint in my body started aching. I mean from my neck, hands, hips, knees, ankles, feet, everything. For the past week, when I wake up, I can't even make a fist without experiencing excruciating pain. I've always been very active, running, basketball, soccer, skiing, you name it, so this is scaring the heck out of me. I'm 47 years old, and up until a week ago, I was hiking with my family, running everyday with my dog. Now I feel like I'm 100 years old. It hurts to walk, stand up, etc! I have an appointment with my doctor tomorrow! I'm ticked about this!
-- By jimmyjam7 | Reply | (4) replies | Private Message me
August 21th
2008
1:38 PM
I was prescribed 750 MG of Levaquin after a ER visit on Saturday, August 16th for a sinus infection. Both Saturday and Sunday I had diarrhea. I took the second pill on Sunday and I did not sleep the entire night. I was sweating so much. I felt out of sorts and scared in my own home. I started to turn on the lights. I even tried to sleep with my bedroom light on. It was an awful night to say the least, I won't go into all of the details. But I did start to question not only my physical health but mental. I knew I had been stressed out, but this never happened to me before. I was not able to work Monday. I took the third pill Monday not realizing this was all a reaction to the antibiotic. I was speaking to a close friend late Monday afternoon about my horrible night. I did not tell her what I was taking. She informed me that one time she was taking a antibiotic, Levaquin, and that she had a similar reaction and even hallucinated. I was relieved to know that I was not loosing my mind but it was the medication. I called my doctor's. office and they said stop taking it. They said they were aware that this had happened to some patients. Gee, thanks for telling me in advance. They suggested I take Benadryl to help me sleep. Needless to say, what a horrible experience I had. And this night was worse. I was sweating even more, could not sleep, tried to take a shower to cool off and then I started to hallucinate. I tried talking myself out of it, but the medicine was too strong. I called my God Mother and she talked me through it. Again, all the lights had to be on, I felt very anxious and scared. IT WAS AWFUL. If you have a sensitive system I would not take this! It is now August 21st and I still can not sleep. I am still out of sorts. I wish I knew in advance. All I know is I am telling everyone I know, DON'T TAKE LEVAQUIN!!!
-- By simplycindyrella | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
August 5th
2008
1:34 PM
I've been on Levaquin for only 2 days, combined with Prednisone... Taking them due to a nasty sinus infection. One of these two meds is making every joint in my body hurts, as well as me having lost almost every bit of my sense of taste. I ate general tso's chicken today for lunch and could not taste anything, so as an experiment I ate one of those little red Chinese peppers that I normally throw out because they are WAY too hot - I couldn't taste a thing. Last night I had to drop the air condition down to 68 degrees as one of these two meds made me sweat very heavily and uncomfortably hot.
-- By jwhipple | Reply | (3) replies | Private Message me
August 2th
2008
10:34 PM
I was prescribed Levaquin by my Dr. for a sinus infection. There were 10 pills and I was to take one a day. No one mentioned any of the side effects or drug interactions except to not take antacids within 2 hours of taking the meds. During the coarse of me taking the medication I began having substernal chest pains which I thought was just horrible heart burn, but it got so bad that I woke up screaming multiple nights from the pain. I also started having pain in my ankles, legs and especially my knees. The pain in my knees gets so bad that I think my knee caps are going to shatter when I walk especially when going down the stairs. I didn't know any of the drug interactions and my father in law who is a physical therapist has always advised me to take ibuprofen for muscle and joint pain so that's what I did, but little did I know that was only increasing the effects on my central nervous system. I am also experiencing bouts of nausea, confusion, light headedness, difficulty sleeping, anxiety and I actually thought I was having a mental breakdown.. I was freaking out on my husband and very depressed even having suicidal thoughts. It wasn't until my mother randomly mentioned that she had heard about the FDA issuing the Black Box warning that I connected the dots and had already finished the meds. I called my doctor's office right away and was told that the symptoms I am having are not side effects of the medicine. Maybe the Dr. doesn't listen to the news either.
-- By chandaleah | Reply | (1) replies | Private Message me
August 1th
2008
11:17 PM
Hello All, My Levaquin nightmare began on June 18th, 2008. The side effects I had were so unbelievable, most of you, if not all of you will believe this. I had severe night sweats which would transfer over to a extreme cold chills, which would allow me to sweat like crazy. Bathed in Sweat. I thought there were small needles all around me and poking me everywhere. My feet, toes, knees and buttocks tingled like there was no tomorrow (and still are to this day). When and how can I make these side effects go away. I'm sick of them. I no longer have the night sweats or the bitter chills, I'm now totally aware of want is going on around me, while taking the med and several days after I couldn't even tell you my name. The bridge of my nose, and running across to my ears tingled like crazy and my ears rang all the time, and they still ring once in a while still. I need to know when this feeling of tingling in my hands, feet, knees, legs and humming in my ears will go a way. Help! I think this drug needs to taken off the market. I took a total of 17 pills. My first scripted was for 15 days and by not knowing any better less then a week later and another doctors appointment, and one more script, which I filled. I took two pills from that bottle. My husband called the doctor and she told him this wasn't normal. She told him that I was to stop the med asap, which I did and I'm still having these awful tingling. If anyone, anyone has any suggestion of how to get those med out of my system I would certainly appreciate it. God Bless each and every one of you. May you all find relief.
-- By teaa | Reply | Private Message me
July 18th
2008
1:58 PM
I was prescribed Levaquin 500 MG for a sinus infection5 days ago. After completing my third dosage I felt a sensation on my toes as if something was biting me. Then it started on my fingers, hands and up and down my arms. My toes and fingers started to swell. The rash then came up the backs of both legs. My feet felt as if they had been burnt very badly.They look like they have been very badly burned. I phoned the doctor and was told to take Benadryl (2 pills) ever 6 hours and to come into the office first thing the next morning. I did and was told to never take Levaquin again. I was prescribed Augmentin. Two days later and I still have the red burnt look on the tops of my toes and the sides of my feet. It looks terrible!
-- By pap1823 | Reply | Private Message me
July 16th
2008
3:16 AM
i was prescribed Levaquin in April for pneumonia. I took 1 pill in the morning and by mid-evening felt gross. My stomach was in knots, head was fuzzy. I decided to NOT take any more and let my body fight it. Last week I had awful pain in my ear/jaw and thought it was my tooth so didn't go to the DR. right away. Finally I couldn't handle the pain and went. He said I had an ear infection and immediately wrote a script for Levaquin despite me telling him how it made me feel in April. He said it was no big deal, the feelings would go away. I came home and against my better judgment took what I had left from April. (6 pills) I am done them now, but was looking up Levaquin on line because I feel like crap, my ear and jaw still hurt like hell, and tonight my leg started to hurt. I have a flaming esophagus as I sit and type this at 2 in the morning because I cant friggen sleep. Pain my chest feels like I inhaled glass. My husband said he noticed I haven't been acting right...news to me. I'm cranky because all this crap did was make me feel worse. DR. told me to take 2 aleve in the a.m. and Tylenol/Motrin every 4 hours after that for pain. I just got done reading that NSAIDs shouldn't be taken with Levaquin. Nice to know after the fact. My stomach has been turning for 5 days and food is absolutely disgusting. I have awful diarrhea from this med too, which the doctor said was normal.. good to know that spending hours on the toilet was"normal". I've been teary too. Crying over nothing, literally sitting at the pc playing a game of cards and I busted into hysterical sobbing OVER CARDS!! Hopefully I will feel better in a few days and nothing else happens. DO NOT TAKE LEVAQUIN!!! Save yourself the trouble.
-- By brokenhater13 | Reply | (1) replies | Private Message me
July 3th
2008
10:43 PM
Two and a half hours ago I took Levaquin 750mg for the first time. After about 45 minutes for some reason I started coughing, like i had something caught in my throat. Didn't think much of it because we were eating but then on the way home I started itching, and my mouth started feeling numb. It actually started feeling like I had been to the dentist and had novacane shot in my lower lip. When I got home I went and looked in the mirror and my face was actually swollen like I was feeling it. I don't think I will take the other two pills doc gave me for a bladder infection.
-- By bonnie66757 | Reply | Private Message me
June 15th
2008
6:54 PM
The levaquin completely cured my throat, no pain, i can swallow again. But my glands are still swollen. My biggest complaint is the mouth thrush, i have sores all over my mouth, my teeth and gums ache and sometimes i wake up with blood in my mouth because my gums are so sensitive. I finished the 5 day 750 mg yesterday for horrific case of strep throat. I also experienced fatigue, sensitivity to light. Now that im off the pills im interested in eating but i cant because my mouth hurts so bad. If my mouth didn't hurt i would be happy, but im wondering if it will go away now that i am done with the dose.
-- By rach121086 | Reply | Private Message me
June 13th
2008
8:42 PM
well im all done with my levaquin.. and i think this was a great antibiotic, other than the price,., i paid 100$ for 5 pills.. but i feel much better.. i didn't get any pains, or really any of the side effects seen on this site for levaquin.. im pretty much all better now.. only thing was the 1st night i couldn't really sleep. but i started taking it in the morning and i was fine.. all in all.. this medicine worked great for me.. JUST TAKE A LOT OF WATER THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND TAKE THE PILL IN THE MORNING AND ITS A PERFECT !
-- By bm1984 | Reply | Private Message me
June 10th
2008
6:56 PM
this is my second day on levaquin. the first night the sleep was pretty bad, but i took the pill late at night, so today i took it early morning , ill see if that helps. no other issues so far. still coughing up a storm though, hopefully i don't have pneamounia.
-- By bm1984 | Reply | (3) replies | Private Message me
June 10th
2008
12:04 AM
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...
-- By bm1984 | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
June 1th
2008
7:04 PM
LEVAQUIN SIDE EFFECTS - As I posted yesterday, after taking one Levaquin - 750 mg, I had hallucinations, sleeplessness, extremely severe headache, and now today I woke up with "thrush mouth/yeast infection" in my mouth - plus aching gums and teeth.
Please, FDA or drug company that makes this, read these boards. This is the TIP of the ICEBERG. Think of the thousands or millions who don't take time to report the side effects of this drug. It would not surprise me if suicides and death are not brought on from LEVAQUIN.
I am thankful I had the good sense to stop this drug after one dose or I might be dead. The hallucinations and headache were the most horrific of my life. I can't imagine what I would be like if I had taken all 7 pills.
-- By jennifernikole | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
May 31th
2008
3:27 PM
MARCH 17TH MY MOTHER WAS A VERY HEALTHY ACTIVE FUN LOVING PERSON AS OF TODAY SHE IS TOTALLY CONFINED TO THE BED. SHE TOOK 4 PILLS OF LEVAQUIN FOR A MINOR CHEST COLD AND GOT A VERY BURNING RASH AND BLISTERS ON HER ARMS NECK AND CHEST AFTER THAT THE SORE THROAT AND EXTREME MUSCLE FATIGUE KICKED IN .HER DR. PUT HER OFF SHE WAS SMART ENOUGH TO QUIT TAKING THE DRUG ON HER OWN ON APRIL 8 SHE WAS HOSPITALIZED WITH THE ABOVE SYMPTOMS WHICH HAVE ULTIMATELY MADE HER UNABLE TO USE HER MUSCLE SHE CAN NOT SWALLOW HAD TO HAVE A PEG TUBE PUT IN SHE HAS NOW BEEN WEENED OFF OF THE 120 MG OF PREDNISONE SHE HAS BEEN ON AND NO END IN SIGHT ON RECOVERY. I HAVE NO MEANS TO TACKLE A DRUG COMPANY BUT I WILL TELL MY STORY AS OFTEN AND AS I CAN. 50 DAYS LATER WE ARE STILL TRYING TO GRASP ALL OF THIS
-- By lgjhorses | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me
May 14th
2008
1:14 PM
Prescribed 500mg of Levaquin for sinus infection, along w Medrol Pak steroids. Although steroids can cause restlessness, they do NOT cause COMPLETE anxiety, nightmares insomnia and aphasia. I took only 4 pills, 1 each day, and it's like i boarded THE CRAZY TRAIN. Fluoroquinolones are apparently known for their intense and dangerous side effects, and if it is true that this is also an antidote for anthrax poisoning, it's probably something that should not be prescribed for sinus infections. SEVERE side effects, chest tightness, etc. No wonder they will not rx it for teenagers-I am a healthy 42 yr old woman and would NEVER take it AGAIN,.
-- By scarletpoppies | Reply | (1) replies | Private Message me
November 10th
2009
9:12 PM
I took my first pill of Levaquin 500 and started having abdominal pain.later I started feeling cold and shaking for about one hour. My arms and legs were so sore that I couldn't stand straight. Joints hurt a lot..My husband told me that my eyes were rolling and he was scare. Next day I had red dots in my whole body.mostly my legs. I went to the doctor for a blood test and my platelets were 35. Put me on prednisone. week before were 220. Almost sure was the levaquin. Shoud be taken out of market.
-- By mariat | Reply | (2) replies | Private Message me