Drug Interactions Possible with Levaquin, Other Fluoroquinolones

By Jim Greene

Published on February 18, 2010

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are subject to drug interactions with some other medications and with minerals found in some antacids and food supplements. One possible result is an increased risk of side effects, including tendon damage, the subject of numerous personal injury lawsuits against the makers of the fluoroquinolone Levaquin®.

First used to treat bacterial infections of the urinary tract, fluoroquinolones are now also used to treat respiratory bacterial infections. Some health experts recommend their use only if other antibacterial drugs prove ineffective, due to the risk of adverse fluoroquinolone side effects.

Simple Pain Relievers May Increase Side Effect Risk

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are commonly used over-the-counter medications that can increase the risk of fluoroquinolone side effects. Prescription drugs that pose a similar drug interaction risk are theophyllines, used to treat asthma and other respiratory diseases, and corticosteroids.

Plaintiffs in lawsuits against Levaquin® maker Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., claim damage to tendon tissue, including tendinitis and torn Achilles tendons, is a side effect of taking the drug. Ortho's label warnings note that the risk of tendon damage is greater for patients over 60, those taking corticosteroid drugs, and those who have had kidney, heart, or lung transplants.

Levaquin Label Lists Other Possible Side Effects

Label warnings also include reports of liver damage and convulsions in patients taking fluoroquinolones, including Levaquin®. Other possible side effects include nausea, stomach upset, loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and trouble sleeping.

The effectiveness of fluoroquinolone in fighting bacterial infection can be reduced by taking it in combination with antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, or with products containing calcium, iron, or zinc, including over-the-counter dietary supplements.

If you or someone you know has suffered a torn tendon, tendinitis, liver damage, convulsions, or other medical problems after taking fluoroquinolone antibacterial medication, including Levaquin®, contact an attorney experienced in product liability/personal injury cases. You may be eligible for financial compensation to help you with your medical bills, loss of income, and other related expenses.

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