Levaquin and Joint Pain
Levaquin is a medication available by prescription only for the treatment of bacterial infection. Levaquin is used to treat bacterial infections which lead to conditions such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Levaquin use can cause serious damage to tendons and joints, a very painful condition. If you are experiencing joint pain as a result of taking Levaquin, get medical attention as soon as possible.
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Levaquin and Joint Pain
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Levaquin is associated with severe joint or muscle pain, as Levaquin can cause swelling and tearing tendons. Levaquin can cause damage to the Achilles tendon. If you feel sudden swelling in your joints or severe pain or stiffness in your muscles or joints, stop taking Levaquin and get immediate medical attention.
Risks
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Those who are over the age of 60 are more likely to develop joint pain as a result of taking Levaquin. If you do experience joint pain or muscle pain after taking Levaquin, keep weight off of the area which is in pain and do not use that limb until after you have received medical care. The more weight you put on it or try to use it, the further you may damage the tendon or cause additional swelling to the joint.
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Interactions
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It is unknown what causes joint pain to occur as a result of taking Levaquin, but some medicines or medical conditions may interact with Levaquin to cause side effects to occur. If you are taking Carafate (a prescription medicine to treat ulcers), do not use Levaquin. If you take antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids), do not use Levaquin within two hours of taking an antacid. Tell your doctor about any other medications you may be taking, including over-the-counter medications.
Side Effects
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In addition to joint pain and swelling, some side effects of Levaquin can be life-threatening and require immediate emergency attention. Severe effects include dizziness or feeling faint, irregular heart rate, diarrhea that is bloody or extremely dark, confusion, out-of-the-ordinary behavior, seizures, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), feeling weakness, less frequent urinating, bruising or bleeding easily, hands or feet that tingle, feeling like you have the flu (fever, sore throat or chills) and peeling or irritated skin.
Warning
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Levaquin can affect your judgment or cause drowsiness. Be careful performing mechanical or complex tasks, and do not drive a motor vehicle until you become accustomed to how this drug will affect your system.
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