Levaquin
Columbus, Ohio
Since the discovery of the value of penicillin for treating infections in the early 20th Century, antibiotics have become more powerful and, in some cases, more dangerous. One of the most powerful antibiotics on the market today is Levaquin, a synthetic drug in the flouroquinolone class. It is used to treat a number of severe infections that prove resistant to other antibiotic courses. Your condition may indicate a course of treatment with Levaquin, but the drug company may be found liable in drug litigation if the drug causes additional health problems.
Levaquin Indications
All antibiotics are effective against one or more bacteria, but they are not all effective at treating every bacterial strain that exists. Over the years, drug resistant bacterial strains have evolved, rendering many antibiotics ineffective. Levaquin is frequently used for treating the following problems when other antibiotics fail:
- Bacterial sinus or bronchial infections
- Bacterial genitourinary infections
- Bacterial skin structure infections
If you suffer from any of the above problems, there is a chance that your doctor is prescribing Levaquin for treatment. You should consult with your doctor about the possible side effects that may occur.
Problems When Using Levaquin
While Levaquin is a proven treatment for many bacterial infections, it has some serious side effects. One of the most serious issues of the drug relates to severe tendonitis and even spontaneously ruptured tendons in people with no prior medical problems. Other problems that may occur under a course of Levaquin treatment include:
- Liver damage
- Convulsions
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Photosensitivity
- Acute pancreatitis
- Hypoglycemia
- Kidney damage
Many of these health issues involve the interaction of Levaquin with other drugs you are taking, including NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), commonly found in over the counter pain medications. If you suffer from any of the listed side effects, your doctor may be found liable for damages under medical malpractice if he or she failed to recognize the possible dangers of drug interactions.
Legal Options
Johnson and Johnson, the maker of Levaquin, is currently being held accountable for the dangers of Levaquin in several states. While the drug company maintains that the antibiotic is proven effective, in July of 2008, the FDA requested that stronger warning labels be applied to all flouroquinolone class antibiotics.
To find out more about Levaquin and your legal options if you suffer from any health issues after taking this powerful antibiotic, please contact experienced Columbus, Ohio drug-injury attorney Robert W. Kerpsack Co., L.P.A., for a free initial consultation.
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