Brand Names: Levaquin; Cipro; Avelox
Generic Names: Levofloxacin; Ciprofloxacin; Moxifloxacin
Function: Fluoroquinolones are a family of antibiotics that are typically prescribed for serious bacterial infections of the sinuses, lungs, ears, airways, bones, and joints caused by susceptible bacteria. Such It is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria (both gram-negative and gram-positive), and it works by inhibiting enzymes that are crucial for bacterial life processes. Levaquin, Cipro, and Avelox are the brand names of some commonly used fluoroquinolones.
Like many families of antibiotics, fluoroquinolones have been under investigation by the FDA since the over prescription of antibiotics became an issue within the medical community. Such investigations have yielded multiple boxed warnings to be placed on medication labels, as well as multiple class action law suits.
Side Effects
In 2013, the required the drug labels and medication guides to contain information about the potential for the serious side effect of peripheral neuropathy. Those at risk of this side effect are only users that ingest the antibiotic by mouth, or administer the drug by direct injection.
Also, in 2008 the FDA issued a boxed warning for the increased risk of developing tendinitis or rupturing tendons. Other side effects described in the medication guidelines for Fluoroquinolones are as follows:
- Respiratory issues
- Dizziness
- Central Nervous System Effects
- Serious Allergic Reactions
- Skin Rashes
- Serious Heart Rhythm Changes
- Intestine Infection
- Low Blood Sugar
- Sensitivity to Sunlight
- Joint Problems
Studies Reported
Prior to the FDA’s black box warning implicating fluoroquinolones in increasing the risk of developing tendinitis or rupturing tendons, the journal of Clinical Infectious Diseases published a review of the evidence supporting this association.
The study reviews 98 case reports and found that the incidents of tendon injury associated with fluoroquinolone use was low in healthy populations, but increases in patients who have kidney complications or when concurrently using corticosteroids.
After reviewing the data, the researchers concluded tendon injury associated with fluoroquinolone use is significant, and risk factors such as renal disease or concurrent cotrticosteroid use must be considered when the antibiotic is prescribed.
In 2014, researchers supported the FDA’s warning regarding the increased risk for the serious side effect of peripheral neuropathy, in a study that came out in the Journal of Investigative Medicine. The study presented a case of fluoroquinolone-induced peripheral neuropathy, and concluded that fluoroquinolones should be used as a drug of last resort and for treatment of infections that are resistant to other safer antibiotics.
Your Legal Options
If you were prescribed fluoroquinolones during the period it was on the market, you may be dealing with very serious physical health problems or a permanent condition that has greatly reduced your quality of life and general health.
If so, connect with our firm immediately so we can begin the process of seeking compensation for you. A full review of your situation is the first order of business and should occur without delay. Call Gruber Law for immediate assistance.
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