Cipro, Floxin and Levaquin Cause Chaos

I used Cipro for 4 days for an infection and got a rash on my lower arm. Thinking that I might be allergic to it, I have told doctors ever since that I am allergic to it, and I have never taken it or similar drugs since.

I remember having to take Cipro twice for two different oral infections. It seemed a bit overkill to me. My doctor even told me to take probiotics with it because it would completely wipe out everything--not good.

Back in 1997, my father who was 82, had a terrible reaction to Cipro. He was presc. it for urinary tract infections and he would almost go out of his mind. We told his doctor, any caregivers, etc., NOT to give him Cipro. Even after these instructions, we had to watch carefully to make sure they didn't prescribe it.

My husband took Levaquin for a sinus infection and within hours the tendons in his legs tightened and he could not walk. We stopped it. MD prescribed Cipro (we did not know it is in the same family) and same reaction. Stopped both. Took months for him to walk better. Leg pain persists to this day. Did it damage the muscles? Who knows.

Currently taking Levaquin for an URI and am having severe insomnia and am much more tired than usual. I think this Rx may have been over kill. I had a "Z-pack" the week before and had no adverse effects from it.

I was prescribed CIPRO post surgically by a doctor at OHSU....It caused immense stomach cramps and clutching.

My hair fell out by the handfuls on a flight to New York with my spouse frantically trying to pick it off my jacket as fast as it fell. I quit taking it and began to slowly feel better. When we got home it was clear that I still did need an antibiotic so called and got a prescription form my GP for something less strong.

I asked the pharmacist what the problem was. She indicated that in some people the CIPRO attacks the healthy tissue instead of the bacteria infection. That she said is why I felt I had an animal inside of me clawing to get out. I will NEVER take that pill again. I tell everyone I am allergic....I guess that is the only way I can explain it to them so it works.
No more CIPRO.

I took Cipro a few years ago. After a couple of days my arms and legs felt funny, like they were attached by loose rubber bands. Eventually I started shaking all over and couldn't stop. I called the doctor and he said the medicine couldn't have caused the symptoms. I stopped taking Cipro and gradually the shaking and jelly legs/arms went away. I wrote on my driver's license that I'm allergic to Cipro in spite of the doctor's denials.

I took Levaquin before having nasal surgery. I had to get off of it because of severe itching and nervousness. The doctor "forgot" I was probably allergic to it and gave it to me just before I was going into surgery. When the severe itching started on my stomach where they put the needle, the operating room nurse immediately took it out. I won't take any kind of antibiotic unless I have to because they all seem to cause severe itching and nervousness... I'm allergic to penicillin also. Frankly, I have almost quit all prescription drugs other than my thyroid, hormone and blood pressure meds and I feel a heck of a lot better. The only time I take an antibiotic is when I go to the dentist because I've had both knees replaced.

I have taken Cipro a number of times over the years and wondered why my tendions, especially the Achilles tendion were so inflamed. Finally read the side effects and saw it can be a Serious side effect to the point of bursting the Achilles tendon. I carry a note with my insurance card in my wallet warning not to give any of this family of antibiotics.

Over 10 yrs ago I was administered Ancef by interns and residents (Drs.) at a county hospital even though I stated an allergy to penicillin. I got very ill and broke out in blisters all over my face, turning bloody and crusty. Looked like I'd been in a catfight. I took myself off and refused any more Ancef IV's. Cipro did not have that effect. I have not taken an antibiotics since.

Read up on natural remedies after a diagnosis from Dr., sometimes antibiotics are not necessary, sometimes they are. I have read up on nutrition and remedies since my first holistic MD 1975 and keep reading. The People's Pharmacy is now a great resource.

I was prescribed CIPRO for a urinary tract infection when I was about 20 years old. This was totally unnecessary- I now realize that this kind of antibiotic was OVERKILL. (In fact, I didn't even need an antibiotic. All I needed was 100 % cranberry juice to cure a UTI, which I have used since then and it worked wonderfully, and faster, than any antibiotic..)

Ever since that time in my life, I have suffered with symptoms that doctors always dismiss- I have symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Hypoglycemia, digestive problems...

Who knows, maybe this stupid, immune system destroying antibiotic could have been what tipped me over the edge into ill health. I am 23 years old now and I still have not recovered.

I was put on it several years ago and within a month my knees ached . Dr. said that Levaquin can cause the cartilage to weaken. Was put on last winter by May pulled a tendon in groin but a different Dr. ordered a scan for ovarys or appendx which was negative. Put on again in June for upper respiratory infection. With in a week was dizzy , had no sense of balance, tripped slightly but couldn't stop the fall and suffered a full face shiner and broken glasses. Balance was off for a couple of weeks. It may be the med of choice for some infections but never again.

My 27yo daughter who has spina bifida, was given Levaquin by Urologist when I told him she could not take Cipro, because of a seizures, he said he said he wasn't aware of this problem and this was a chemical cousin and shouldn't cause the same problem. Then day 4 she had a seizure. This brings the total to 4 times and it still took us the parents to make the connection. The Dr.'s aren't aware of the problem.

I have made copies of these articles and sent it to them. Why is it not noted on the bottle not to ingest caffeine? It is the caffeine that contributes to the seizures!

I took Levaquin in 2005 for about 6 days and noticed that I felt worse and worse with every passing day. My body felt like I'd been in a horrific car accident. I did some reading of the side effects and learned that severe tendonitis is associated with Levaquin. AFter I stopped taking it, most of the pain subsided, but my right elbow gave me problems for about 2 years after. IT WAS AWFUL. So now I tell every single doctor that I'm allergic to it. I'll NEVER take it again!!

I am very allergic to most drugs and I fear them all, especially after reading these comments. I think that most of our drugs are generic now and they are not the quality that our brand name drugs used to be, which could be causing us all some of these severe reactions. Most generics are not made in the USA and I doubt if there is much quality control!

I go to an alternative/complementary M.D. as much as I can, because they seem to use drugs and surgery as a last resort. And they have many natural remedies that help me.

I just read on the New York Times.com site that the diabetes drug Avandia can be dangerous to the heart and that Actos is safer. I am not a diabetic but I am mad as hell that the FDA allows these drugs to remain on the market.

I believe that big corporations have too much influence on the FDA and it is literally killing some people.

I get so tired of lobbbying Washington D.C. to protect us from these sort of things. It should be their responsibility to protect us first from things like this. I encourage all of you to contact your senators and representatives and call their attention to these type of drugs and the effect that they have on a lot of us.

I, too, had a bad reaction to Floxin. I was in a daze and couldn't sleep due to a semi-dream state and cranial pressure. The entire next day I experienced ringing n the ears aand a sort slow motion world with an echo effect. I purchased the "PILL BOOK" and now research any medication for side effects and drug interaction.

What really upsets me is that this medication Ciproflaxen is the one given to chickena and turkeys every day until two days before being dispatched. These birds are still full of the antibiotics when they reach the marketplace, and for those of us who have had a bad reaction to this group of medications, it causes havoc. I cannot eat chicken in a restaurant now, or buy regular chicken - just makes me so ill. Now I buy antibiotic-free chicken (but don't buy turkey any more) and it's nothing for me to pay $15 to $20 for a chicken to make soup. They taste more like the chicken I remember as a kid though, which is a good thing.

I, too, had a tendonitis reaction to Levaquin. Not long after, I saw an ad from a lawyer's office soliciting patients to join a class action suit. I still have doctors express doubts that the Levaquin was the culprit. No, I didn't join the suit because I realized very quickly that the drug was the problem and quit taking it.

1993 or 1994 I was put on Floxin for and ear infection that total blocked my hearing in one ear and had been resistive to two other antibiotics. After taking the Floxin for 2 to 4 days I was sitting at my kitchen table. My hands were on the table and the shadows on my hands created by the sunlight coming through my kitchen window were a bright turquoise. My thoughts were holly cow I’m hallucinating. I called my pharmacist and my doctor. Both thought I was nuts.

Ten years ago, I took Cipro for a misdiagnosed, very severe kidney infection for over one month with no problems. When I was prescribed Levaquin 4 few years ago for another kidney infection (again, not properly diagnosed) I had the most horrible side effects.

Because I never had a reaction to medications in the past (I was 44 at the time) it took me a few days to realize that these problems were most likely the Levaquin. The outer portion of both thighs were totally numb and tingly, I couldn't sleep, I was falling constantly, had such a loud drone-like sound in my ears that I couldn't here the phone ringing or the garage door opening and worst of all, had slurred speech.

When I phoned my physician about these problems and asked to be put on another medication, he said it sounded like I was having a stroke, and sort of suggested that I could to go to the ER if I wanted to. He insisted the Levaquin had nothing to do with it. When I called the pharmacist, she stated that all of the symptoms were most likely due to Levaquin and to discontinue it immediately.

It took months for the feeling in my thighs to return and the other symptoms disappeared within a few days of stopping the Levaquin. Needless to say, I never went back to the original physician and now list Levaquin as a medication allergy but feel other doctors are skeptical that it causes any side effects at all. This is a frightening thought.

I was recently prescribed Cipro for pain in my lower left abdomen, thought to be diverticulitis. After taking 2 pills I read the warnings (especially those regarding breakage of tendons, which would have been very serious for me as I'm a woman 70 years old, with many responsibilities and an active life) and immediately stopped taking the med and called my doctor for a consultation.

My doctor made light of it and prescribed amoxicillin, after I refused to take the Cipro. There were several warnings and side effects on the pharmacist's sheet that should have definitely prevented my physician from ever prescribing Cipro for me. I now question whether or not I'm with the right physician after 14 years of trusting her.

First time Cipro was prescribed, I began very soon to feel shaky, a rash appeared. I stopped taking it. About 4 years later a physician recommended a shot of Cipro, I said 'No,' explained my reason for this. He told me no one is allergic to Cipro... left the room, sent a nurse back in who actually walked in with a hidden syringe and shot into the upper arm without asking and left.

The Doctor reappeared and reported that was a Cipro injection. Before I could even stop sputtering and get my words out, I began having trouble breathing, I turned a very bright red, face swollen... The doctor got a crash team together, administered massive amounts of benedryl and I cannot remember what else, stayed with me, repeating his apologies endlessly, looking quite chagrined...rightfully so.

What a horrible experience. I saw the comments above saying this information is kept with his insurance card. Excellent idea. I will do that momentarily.

Back in late 90's I was prescribed Floxin for a sinus infection. The next evening I woke up from sleep and began hallucinating that HUGE bats were flying around the room. The experience absolutely terrified me. I thought I was losing my mind. The interesting thing was my sister who was a pharmacy representative had warned me not to take this antibotic. I dismissed her warning as empirical hogwash. Needless to say I had to learn the hard way. The older I become, the more cautious I get regarding prescription medications. I literally perform "due diligence" upon each medication I take before using it. Sadly, it has become "caveat emptor;" buyer beware.

Danna,

I just read this from the American Heart Association Online. It suggest you might not need to take antibiotics before your dental appointment:

Patients at the greatest danger of bad outcomes from IE and for whom preventive antibiotics are worth the risks include those with:

-- artificial heart valves
-- a history of having had IE
certain specific, serious congenital (present from birth) heart conditions, including:
-- unrepaired or incompletely repaired cyanotic congenital heart disease, including those with palliative shunts and conduits
-- a completely repaired congenital heart defect with prosthetic material or device, whether placed by surgery or by catheter interventions, during the first six months after the procedure
-- any repaired congenital heart defect with residual defect at the site or adjacent to the site of a prosthetic patch or prosthetic device
a cardiac transplant which develops a problem in a heart valve.

I took this antibiotic for UR infection, 10 minutes later I had a severe allergic reaction, anaphylaxis, I just knew I was leaving this world. I did get emergency care in time. This was devastating to even think about even now. I also had a severe reaction to floxin in 1992. I am now terrified of medicines.

In the fall of 2009 was hospitalized for appendix. Was given IV antibiotics for 3 days twice daily for the inflammation.... Flagyl and Cipro. Had to take 500mg twice daily pill of each for 10 days when I came home. It cleared up the appendix problem and an infection in my lung but I ended up in emergency in such terrible pain in my back, in tears could hardly stand and since have been having problems with a lot of back pain and pressure... also digestion problems. After checking me out thoroughly when asked the doctor in emerg said yes it could cause this and I would have to wait till it all got out of my system. I'll never take it again.

It's been eight months and I've been to two specialists trying to determine if I have arthritis. They say I do not. I took Cipro and Levaquin within a one month period and it has been eight months since then, and I have pain and stiffness EVERYDAY. What started out as plantar fasciitis and wrist tendinitis then moved into my hips, elbows, and is now in my upper back and shoulders.

I ran a low grade fever for 6 months for weeks at a time. The symptoms started within two days of taking the last dose of Levaquin. I have not even addressed the fatigue, irritability, and mood changes I experienced during the first three months after taking the drug. I was healthy, active, and exercised regularly. Now I don't know what to do--stretching generally aggravates my pain. How can the FDA allow this drug to be prescribed?

I had a bacterial infection in my UT that didn't show up in Urinalysis. Doc prescribed Cipro 500mg 2 times daily for 1 week. During the course my burning after urination seemed to clear up, but not completely leaving me with weak legs/arms mostly when sitting or lying down. Burning sensations in my Arms and mosquito like bumps that itched. I experienced back pain which was resolved by lots of massaging and muscle sprays. I've become really stressed and when I spoke to my doc about it... he said it's all anxiety related. But it all started after taking Cipro... and this is ongoing 1 week after usage still.

I was given Levaquin for a sinus infection. My life has been hell ever since. I broke out in a rash after the 2nd pill. Just a few of the major problems I have had since then include; body aches all over, hair loss, vision loss, dry skin and feelings of heat; like burning skin, uti's, chronic fatigue, arthritis (neck, shoulders, knees and back), panic attacks, hallucinations, short term memory loss. In my opinion this drug is poison.

That was 5 years ago, and I am still having joint problems, hair loss, and chronic fatigue. I was only 46 when I took the drug and in very good physical shape. I worked out all the time, and always busy doing something. Now, it is an effort to get off the couch even to do dishes.

I too, talked to many doctors about this drug, and most of them say the drug couldn't do these things. I hope people keep speaking out about these floxins, something needs to be done. I also make sure I tell all my son's doctors, do not ever give him any floxins either. They actually look at me like I am crazy.

Hi, Just got prescribed Cipro. Well, generic version for a sore throat over the phone. Haven't even been tested. I'm not sleeping so I got online to see what side effects are. OMG. I'm not taking this anymore, printed out copies of reviews to take to Dr. tomorrow. This is awful. I only took two pills, hope nothing else happens. I'm so sorry all of you went through what you did.

I took Levaquin and Cipro in last 2 years. They are pure poisons. Now I can not walk without pain. Running is completely impossible. My arms are in pain all the time. I often burst into tears when my little daughter asks me to play outside with her but I can not. My life and my family are totally ruined by these poisons. Now I have doc phobia and drug phobia. I think even a bird is happier than since they can fly in the air without being disabled by docs with those poisons.

Like I've always said "It's all about the money" and GREED.

PRK and PM,

Yes it is all about the money, but for everyone. For the drug company and for the consumer. In the USA we have the choice to buy expensive name brand medications of generics. We can buy Avandia or Actos. All medication side-effects are not known before they are on the market. What medications you should take is based on risks and benefits. Sometimes there is clearly a more beneficial alternative drug, sometimes we must more literally pick if we wish to die of the disease or the side-effects.

The great thing is we have that choice and some government agency can't say what we can, can't or have to take.

Also lobby against the insurance companies and the lawyers who make it difficult for your doctor to provide you quality health care.

I was put on Cipro and Flagyl for diverticulitis. While I was taking it, my arms and legs tingled and my hips hurt terribly. My left hip continued to hurt after I took the Cipro and then my back started hurting too. It's been 4 or 5 years since then and I am in almost constant pain in my neck, middle back, knees and lower back. The pain all started with Cipro. I was healthy and working, now I'm retired and it's an effort to get out of bed in the morning. I can't work in my garden or do much of anything I formerly enjoyed. Every time I go to a new doctor, I put down that I am allergic to Cipro. I refuse to ever take another fluoroquinolone. I also don't trust doctors anymore. I tell my kids to never take Cipro.

I had my gallbladder removed. I am only 20 years old. My doctor put me on Cipro and I took it my first night home. I woke up the next morning stating to feel itchy and there was a rash that was spreading. I went back to the ER and they prescribed me predisone and told me if that didn't work to take benedryl with it. Its now been over a week.

I am covered almost head to toe in hives and I itch like crazy. I don't know what to do because nothing is working anymore at all. Its really bad and I'm scared I'm going to have this for the rest of my life. Does anyone know if I can get a shot of benedryl or something to make this go away cause it is so bad. I really cannot deal with this anymore its even all over my face and my incisions.

Amanda, See a dermatologist right away for the hives and make sure your Dr. sees them so they will believe you. Mine would not believe me that it made me dizzy and lose my balance. Had terrible back pain for six months and 3 months of PT after taking Levaquin. Finally easing up =I will never take that class of drugs again.

Very glad I found this site and viewed all the comments. As a patient with severe COPD, I often have been placed on fluoroquinolones, since I am allergic to penicillin [anaphylactic reacion] and sulfa drugs. I've had reactions (hives) to levofloxacin (Levaquin) and moxifloxacin (Avelox) but for some strange reason do not have huge problems with Cipro. I have, however, always attributed the muscle weakness experienced to being on Prednisone during those times; ditto the insomnia.

What brought me to the site was how shaky I feel and through your comments am realizing that the nausea I am experiencing as well as the insomnia (since I'm not currently on Prednisone) could well be from the Cipro. Damn. With only 15% lung function, I am often beholden to go with whichever particular antibiotic is found to not be resistant to whichever particular bug I may have. It's a gamble, to be sure, but I'm at the point where not taking it could prove fatal.

Am also one of those people who cannot nebulize albuterol or other solutions given asthmatics and emphysematics, apparently my airways are so hypersensitive they react to the chemicals added to those drugs to serve as preservatives. Rather than opening up my airways, those close them - called paradoxical bronchospasm. Ain't pretty.... similar to how a goldfish looks on the counter after he's jumped out of the bowl.

Has the itching stopped? How much time did it take for itching to stop? I took Ofloxacin (same class of medicine) 400mg daily for 8 days and I am having itching all over my body since then. Thanks.

After taking Ofloxacin (same class of medicine as Cipro) 200mg twice daily for 8 days I started having pain in my one knee cap and itching all over my body (with no eruption). I have stopped the medicine 3 days back but the itching is only getting worse. The knee cap pain is still there although slightly reduced.

I do not know how the itching thing will go and what will happen to the knee pain. Has anyone experienced it?

I took Levaquin for a prostate infection. About 2 weeks after I started taking it I began to suffer from extreme anxiety and horrific nightmares. I thought I was loosing my mind. It never occurred to me that the medication could have been the culprit; my Doctor even said that it wasn't the Levaquin.

So I decided to search the internet for myself and found that I was not alone. My time in hell lasted for 6 months but there was an end to this and I did come out.

I was prescribed Cipro 500mg twice daily for UTI infection, within a day I felt weak muscles in legs and arms, knees felt tight there was swelling in the calve muscles and twitching, as well as chronic fatigue. I stopped taking it, (2 days now), yet the symptoms persist. When I confronted the doctor, he had the nerve to question my symptoms as being due to something else. I just hope that these things clear away. It has taken days out of my life. I am determined to spread the word about this poison, so more people don't have to suffer.

Amanda, how are you now? I was prescribed Cipro for a UTI for 10 days. Four days after finishing it, I broke out in an itchy rash/hives from head to toe. I've had prednisone and Benadryl, and then hydroxyzine HCL in place of the Benadryl. The rash is a little better but now I've developed a slightly wheezy, dry cough. I certainly hope you are better by now. How did you resolve the problem?

I had an acute uti infection last week that took me to Urgent Care. I was in severe pain. I told the Dr. that I rarely even took an aspirin and that I was prone to reaction. I also mentioned that a week earlier I had bloodwork done that showed an inflamed liver. Because there was a great deal of blood and protein in my urine, he prescribed Ciprofloxacin, 500 mg for 5 days.

I now am suffering from tendon pain, extreme fatigue, sore throat, headache. I called the Urgent care for the result of my urinalysis, (they said they lost my number) and it was indeed positive for UTI. I mentioned that I was having some disturbing side effects to the Cipro and before I had a chance to describe them, they said ,"It doesn't sound related to the antibiotic."

It was weird because I hadn't even mentioned the symptoms. I made a big mistake by taking this drug. I am using water to flush and taking calcium. Is there anything else I can do to lessen the long term effects? I was also running many miles a week and I am concerned that I will rupture something. When is a good time to begin exercise? Is there a silver lining with this?

MG,

Most people are not aware of the how common drug side effects are.

PLEASE HELP by reporting your side effects to this FDA website: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/medwatch-online.htm

Unfortunately your doctor is not paid enough and it is not his or her job to collect data on medication side effects nor is it the pharmacist.

You can have the greatest impact, by telling others on this website, but the people in charge want you to report using the FDA website.

I took 4 courses of cipro back in 2006 until 2007 for a kidney infection. its now 2010 and my symptoms are very severe.

I have cervical dystonia where my neck pulls to the left, shoulder damage,vertigo, pains in my calf muscles, twitching muscles, pains in my thumbs, and difficulty walking it as if everything is tight and very painful. For the last 3 years I have undergone every possible test going including mri of the brain body and neck, countless blood tests hearing test etc etc. all of which have come back clear.

Everyone has been stumped to find the cause of all my symptoms. Last week I checked cipro out for long term effects and I have been amazed to find that this is the only answer to all my problems and I had mentioned this to my doctors all along because before I took this antibiotic I was very fit and healthy, attended the gym 3 to 4 times a week and never had any problems.

I feel that the kidney infection was mistreated and I should never been exposed to as many of these antibiotics that I have been in a short space of time. I'm waiting to see my neurologist to see what his opinion on this is. I'm trying magnesium and glucosamine to see if it helps but looks like I have quite a bit of damage done. I guess I'm wondering if i will ever have my health back.

My mom was started on Cipro for UTI on the 3rd day she began having uncontrollable shaking . We were scared, and she was crying a lot.Doctors should alert their patients regarding the side effect of this drug.

Rebecca, I was also diagnosed with cervical dystonia in Aug. 2009. My dystonia, however, has also affected my shoulders, face, jaw, back and arms. I took Levaquin for 2 weeks in 2005, and this has been the result (along with a laundry list of other chronic conditions). My heart goes out to you because dystonia is a painful, disabling (in my case) condition that most doctors know little about.

I did have an abnormal brain MRI though, so I have also had a stroke. Some of the natural supplements have helped me. I DO NOT suggest Botox injections. They damage your liver and do more damage to the brain and nerves, and the relief (if you get any) only lasts for a few weeks. God bless you, and I wish you the best.

I'm 18 and a sophmore in college. I've always had urinary tract infections, but I've always been a healthy kid, I went in to my doctor a month and a half ago about July 9th for a kidney infection and he prescribed levaquin, 3 hours after taking the drug I had a seizure on my living room couch, terrified my mother half to death, but I don't remember a thing. Prior to my seizure my hand started to have a tremor and that's it.

I went to the ER 3 times in one weekend with my whole body seizing but I was awake and conscience. They prescribed me benzodyazapans and told me it could never be the levaquin and I must of had some traumatic event happen in my life. So I went to see a neurologist who diagnosed me with non epileptic seizures. And have not had one since 3 weeks ago.

Since then I've had severe pain in my back, which my GP has told me is like fibromyalgia pain. It's everywhere, I've been nauseated, have had a horrible time sleeping and I can no longer walk throughout a super market without having massive pain in my back and legs. I've just recently started getting rashes. My GP believes that I might have had some type of reaction to it but he has taken my blood to test for everything under the sun. He doesn't want me to return to my college that's 10 hours away and my parents are deciding to send me.

Although it seems like everyone has had bits and pieces of my symptoms I'm wondering if anyone else has a story more like mine and what I can maybe expect a little more. I only took 1 pill of levaquin and 7 weeks later I'm still not myself. I've had almost every side effect that it says that levaquin can cause yet I'm seeing my 6th doctor who partially doesn't believe it.

I used to have such a busy social life and now I'm trapped and I'm hoping like so many others I'm still not having symptoms years later. I wish you all the best and hope that you can find some kind of cure for the pain your medicines have caused. For I too know what it's like and hope it's not too much longer.

I have tried Cipro for four days and maybe a slight rash, other than that nothing else.

I am Latino, so it that could be a reason why is my body dealing it that way.

I am very sad to hear all these comments of people who wanted to be feel better and they end up worse.

So I will try to keep my progress with this, since I am taking it for three weeks only.
Twice a day 500mg.
Peace to all!.

I took Levaquin for two weeks two years ago for a bartholin cyst. I first had a tendon problem, went to the ER and it went away in a few days, wearing a cast. Then my feet started burning, then my hands, then my thighs were aching terribly. I could not sleep more than 3 or 4 hours due to burning pain in legs. My hair began falling out and still is. I have hardly any left! This began two years ago and the symptoms have not abated they are getting worse and worse.

Nothing is the same. I stay in my house most of the time because I so exhausted from not sleeping. My muscles move out of place, causing me great pain.

I have not taken my dog for a walk for about one year now, nor can he be near me as the weight of his 13 pound body hurts my legs. I gave away all my beautiful high heeled shoes as I can only walk in Easy Spirit sneakers as they are the lightest, softest ones I can find. I do feel sometimes that it would be better if God would take me home.

I called the drug company that makes Levaquin and the woman I spoke to said to me, I am keeping a record of everyone's symptoms. I said, "if you know it causes such horrific illness and loss of one's total life, why would you continue to give this drug out? Her answer was, it helps some people. I said, do you mean all you are doing is taking our tragic stories down on paper, noting these "symptoms" and not doing anything to stop this? She did not answer me and I concluded the conversation by saying, well, if you are not doing anything about this, then what are we, YOUR GUINEA PIGS TO BE TESTED ON? She was so cold and indifferent to my too familiar story and of what thousands, maybe millions are experiencing.

She also said it can't be the Levaquin that is still causing you pain because it leaves the body when you stop taking it. This must be lie as my pain, my torture, my limitations increase daily now for two years.

Why can't we do something collectively about this "holocaust". God help us! I also filled out the form for the FDA and that, I am sure, was just filed away as they chuckled about the monies they are getting for giving us poison.

Lulu

last Dec. I was prescribed Cipro for a urinary tract infection.

Within 4 days I started a painful tendonitis in my left arm. A week later I got a painful swelling, itch, and lump in my right hand, and then in another week, My right rotator cuff tore.

After several x-rays, and an MRI, many pain relievers and five months of physical therapy, both arms are now 95% back to normal but some residual pain.

I was prescribed 250 mg. four times a day for 10 days The pkg. insert says the most common side effect is ruptured tendons, esp. in patients over 60. I am 71 but my Dr. "thought it was safe & now says all my problems are due to age & wear & tear."!?!?!.

Since my Dr., a geriatrician, refuses to believe that the prescribed Cipro caused all my three occurrences of tendon damage I have had four physical therapists say that they have seen many similar problems from Cipro, the most common being rupture of the Achilles tendon.

Thank God my Achilles weren't affected or I would have been completely helpless as both arms were affected.

I ache from my low back down into my hips and legs. I started taking Ofloxacin last night. I took one pill last night and two prednisone this morning. These were both prescribed after 7 weeks of severe coughing and 2 weeks of congestion. A z-pac initially made me better after a cough diagnosis, but I got sicker again after a couple of weeks. I had a breathing treatment yesterday in the doctor's office that helped the wheezing and he gave me an inhaler, which I started using twice a day. I'm waiting for the doctor to call me back and tell me what to do, but after reading about the related pains people have had, I'm not taking any more Ofloxacin. I pray this clears up.

I was given cipro for a bad uti witch I get a lot and on the 2nd day I am feeling like my body is just shaking inside and out and a strange weak feeling in my arms and legs my hands are trembling. I am not gonna take anymore this is a very bad feeling!!! I am going to my doctor in a couple of days so I will be asking for a different medication!!!!

I had a chest infection and was prescribed Levaquin. I never had it before. Before I started it I had the typical symptoms of a chest infection. After I started Levaquin and within a few days I starts to feel awful. The pain in my legs and back was severe. I felt light headed and dizzy and almost fainted at work. I started itching, especially on my scalp. My hair started to fall out.

I did not think about the Levaquin because I had never had an allergic reaction to medication. I just thought that the chest infection was now something worse. It was awful. I didn't sleep for days. I actually thought I was dying slowly. I had finished the whole prescription by then. I decided to look up the side effects of Levaquin because I didn't know what was happening to me and there it was in black and white. I had no idea how strong and synical this drug could be. NEVER AGAIN.

I am a 39 year old woman who lives a healthy lifestyle. I eat good organic food, I get restful sleep, I walk regularly as a form of exercise, I care for my home and my two young children, and I own my own business. My husband grows a large edible garden and we raise chickens for their eggs.

Between the two of us, we are practitioners of Chinese Energetic Medicine, Reiki, Ayurveda, Herbalism, Yoga, Meditation, and other forms of healthy living. We have an active family lifestyle and in July 2010 we were working with a real estate agent in Costa Rica where we were planning to buy property in a beach community. During a particularly stressful time in my life, and against all of my usual protocols, on July 29, 2010 I decided to take an antibiotic for a UTI and possible kidney infection.

I took Cipro 500mg 2x per day for 6.5 days before I realized that my body wasn’t appreciating it. Three days after I discontinued use, I made another unusual and desperate decision, and took one dose of Advil for pain. Four hours later, my life was hanging on by a thread. Over the course of the next week I would lose my ability to walk, my ability to drive, my ability to see, think, and communicate clearly, my ability to rationalize, my ability to care for my family and myself, and my ability to feel okay about ANYTHING.

Over the course of the next couple of months my family would endure a living nightmare while my body and my mind degenerated before their eyes. I was physically, mentally, and emotionally incapacitated. These are some of the symptoms I have experienced to date: peripheral neuropathy, numbness, dizziness, convulsions, seeing things out of the corner of my eye that are not there, acute tendinopathy (in both ankles, both Achilles, both knees, right bicep, both shoulders, both wrists, neck, right hip, both thumbs and 8 fingers) torn rotator cuff, tremors, anxiety, fear, fright, nightmares, headaches, ringing in my ears, ear pain, confusion, depression, paranoia, hives, rash, irregular heart beat, irregular breathing, chills, fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, pain, burning, tingling, tremors, weakness, a brain spasm/squeeze (wait, did I already say that?), difficult speech, brain fog, blank spots in my thinking, creaking joints, popping sounds when I move, loss of smell, vibration throughout my body, persistent twitching, loss of words, momentary blindness, short term memory loss, inability to walk, fatigue, extreme sensitivity to light, sound and movement, nausea, inability to raise my arms above my head, inability to grasp things with my hands, terrible body odor, loss of appetite, muscular atrophy, loss of control over my bodily movements, weight gain, blurry vision, irregular eye movements, and among other things that my messed up brain can’t think of right now a condition I can only describe as “the crazies”.

None of the symptoms I mentioned have been mild. They have all been profound in their incapacitating, annoying, painful or frightening character. And of these symptoms, I had only ever experienced headaches, ear pain, nausea and rash prior to taking Cipro. Currently, I am still suffering from about a dozen of these items, but generally speaking I am more stable mentally and physically.

During this acute phase, I have experienced drastic improvements followed by slightly less drastic setbacks, but overall I’m slowly improving. You can get the rest of my story at my blog http://www.survivingcipro.com

Pharmacists should be verbally warning patients of the extreme danger of using Levaquin instead of passively filling the prescription. The warning on the info sheet is not good enough as every medication has warning signs. The FDA should also be more aggressive. This maybe a good medication for some things, but it does real harm and sometimes lasting damage for many.

Around 2006, I was prescribed levaquin and ultimately developed a case of severe tibial tendonitis which caused me pain with every single step for about a year. I didn't trip, stumble, twist my leg or anything else. It just started after a day when I did a lot of walking at work and persisted until my podiatrist gave me a shot of cortizone. Immediately, I felt some relief though the shot itself was painful.

The next day at work I noticed that something was different but I wasn't sure what. Then all of a sudden I realized that I was walking around and had absolutely no pain! I had a total of 3 cortizone shots over 3 months and had a pair of custom orthotics made for my shoes. A month later I walked around downtown Seattle for over 5 hours without sitting down and experienced no pain other than just tired feet. It was WONDERFUL as I like to walk when I'm in new cities!!!

A few weeks ago I heard about the alleged connection between Levaquin and tendonitis, I will never take that medication ever again. I don't know if there truly is a connection but I'm not taking any chances! Thank you to the People's Pharmacy for the information on the possible dangers of this and other medications.

I was in the hospital for kidney stones that turned into a kidney infection well I also have MRSA so my body rejects almost all antibiotics so the Dr hooked some cipro up to the I.V. for 3 days I got about 9 bags my face kept swelling up the nurses told me it wasn't that bad of an allergic reaction and kept giving me benadryl.

I felt like fluid was building up behind my right eye, well when I went home he gave me cipro 500mg tabs I took 1 pill went to lay down and the living hell really started my head hurt more then ever before in my life and whenever I would move the pain would roll around in my head like fluid well next my throat stared to get really dry felt like it was closing up I ran to the bathroom and threw up I looked in the mirror and I had blood coming out of my nose I was shaking so bad I got to sleep around 5am woke up at 7am I been shaking all day having panic attacks, my lower back is killing me I am pissed.

I just kicked a 6yr drug habit and was feeling good then ended up in the hospital 2 days later and got put on this BS now I feel like I am going through withdrawals all over again. I am a 28yr old man and I feel like I'm about to break down crying this really has my head messed up my body too. I will NEVER take this drug again.

I am taking cipro for a possible uti or bacterial infection. This is my second time on cipro my first time was 7 days (well a little longer because I have missed some doses) This time I only have to take it for 3 days (waiting on some lab results from my doctor this coming week). Since being on cipro second time around I have felt very weak and shaky I have drunk plenty of water and gotten nutrients in me from food but I still feel like I am weak. I have not had any lack of sleep and have kept it easy this whole weekend. Could this be the drugs doing this to me?

Ii have chronic achilles tendonitis. I have been on Levaquin many times for sinusitis. When I was prescribed it recently for diverticulitis and had finally learned it can cause this problem I asked that i been given a different medication. They gave me Cipro! It's in the same class. I was told this was the only effective med. for diverticulitis. what can you do???

On 1/12/2011 I had an endoscopic ultrasound of the pancreas. Prior to the procedure I was given a dose of levaquin. The procedure was fine. However, I returned home, and then had a severe diarrhea attack, after which I started getting shaky, hyperventilated, was nauseous, got lightheaded, had rapid heartbeat, and fell on the floor thinking that this was the end. Unfortunately no one was home with me at the time, but a managed to crawl to the sofa, laid on my back with pillows under my legs.

After about 10 minutes the symptoms appeared to subside. But then, I started getting severe abdominal cramps and the urge to defecate. When I defecated, it was like a faucet spewing red blood. This kept up for several hours and I finally went to the emergency room. The final diagnosis was colitis and I was put on a low fiber diet. However, the discharging doctor prescribed levaquin for me to take twice a day.

Well, needless to say, I was hallucinating, shaky, rapid heartbeat, and overall a feeling of malaise. I contacted my GI doctor and he told me to stop taking the levaquin immediately.

I have read many of the postings regarding the horrible side effects of levaquin, and I would like to know why this med is still be prescribed.

Dear Alie - YES! These symptoms could be caused by Cipro. Now that you are most likely off the medication I would suggest a few things: 1) reconsider ever taking a fluoroquinolone again; if it was the Cipro, it could cause much more serious damage next time 2) don't take fluoroquinolones for UTI or sinus infections, it isn't necessary, just convenient 3) as you get treatment, question EVERYTHING and consider alternative remedies (check out my website for info on detoxing from fluoroquinolones: http://www.survivingcipro.com ) 4) spread the word, and use extreme caution with ANY medication, read your labels 5)only work with doctors who are willing to consider that you've been floxed, otherwise you may find yourself taking a lot of drugs that will prolong your condition. Best of luck to you, and if you get this message, please reply so we all know how you are doing. Nikki

Next time tell them not to give you a "Fluoroquinolone" rather than a brand name. Your experience just goes to show how very little the prescribing physicians really know about these drugs and their side effects. I would recommend a NMD for the diverticulitis. Best of luck.

Let me just say, I am going on my third month of NOT being able to walk. I took only 4 doses of Cipro 500mg and that was all it took to really mess me up. I was prescribed it for a supposed UTI (which I never ended up having) and now I am working really hard to try and get my life back. I can't even begin to describe the pain in my tendons and the muscles in my calves. I am doing everything in my power (including a positive attitude) to learn to walk again.

I have heard protein, Vit D, and Vit C. Also, gave up the caffeine and NO alcohol. These are the things that I have been hearing about and following. Everything is so tight in my lower legs, and my feet don't seem to want to work, it's like they won't lay on the floor correctly, but I'm sure that is because I am in pain and I have compensated for it. The pain travels around in different areas, just depending on the day. It has just been over two months now, and today is the first day that I can officially say that I can now 'shuffle' along the floor without always having to use my crutches...yeah! Bless you all that are suffering and I hope for a complete recovery for all of us!

I took Cipro for a week 11 months ago. At the end of the week I woke up w/sore ankles. Over the next week this spread to my calves, hamstrings, hips and shoulders and hands. I now have tendonitis in all these places and peripheral neuropathy. My symptoms have not improved at all. I used to be an athlete, now I'm virtually crippled. Do not take unless you have tried another antibiotic and it's not working AND you're in danger of sepsis.

Work with a natural medicine/integrative medicine MD or DO, or a legitimate (four year grad degree) naturopathic physician to heal your digestive tract... they will probably have you get off wheat, dairy, sugar and all things which irritate and inflame your gut ... and take probiotics and L-glutamine powder which help heal your gut. You must find a qualified practitioner to work with you - it may help calm down your issues and lessen your need for meds.

On Dec 10th, 2005 at about approximately 10:00 PM...I was given two levaquin pills at our local ER after being brought there for electrolyte imbalance from a 3 day bout with a body flu. I had fainted at home while standing and going to the bathroom and crushed my face on a hard wood floor and was knocked out with a smashed nose, loose teeth and broken septum. Lots of bleeding.

After being rushed by ambulance to our local ER I was diagnosed with a "slight" concussion with broken septum and found to have a fever and electrolyte imbalance from dehydration.

I was kept at this ER for just 2+ hours and told around midnight I was being sent home!

Through bloody swollen lips, bloody and 90% turned nose and black eyes I pleaded to be kept at the hospital as I was so traumatized feeling I felt like I had just been in a serious head injury car accident in the middle of a flu! But incredibly, the ER doc refused to keep me and sent me on my way.

As I was getting dressed to go a nurse came in and told me to take these two pills which turned out to be Levaquin. I learned later I was prescribed these for a "beginning case of bronchitis" which I didn't even know I had.

I didn't know anything about Levaquin or that it was created to be a "last line" antibiotic and not a first line one as it is so potent.

I was wheeled out to my wife's car and sent on my way. Within 3 minutes onto the ride home I fainted again and my frantic wife rushed me back and I was placed in a "recovery room" where they place patients when a hospital is full and their beds are only separated by curtains.

The fainting was passed off as a "vagal response."

I was monitored and the next late morning I was given TWO MORE Levaquin tablets ( that's 4 in 12 hours! ) and a prescription for another 4 to 5 days worth!

I was again sent on my way later that day. Again against my desperate pleas to be kept in the hospital as I felt so susceptible and bad.

Starting that night at home in a bed by myself, my body exploded into symptoms so nightmarish it's hard to go back and re-feel them.

Itching scalp and body, uncomfortable tingling, prickly feelings all over.

My arms felt like they were being ripped out of their sockets and my arms and hands would get burning hot and then go ice cold and numb!

I would feel hot and then freezing cold.

My GI tract went completely crazy, rumblings, painful odd and sick feelings - like I had drank bleach!

My bladder went bananas. One second it felt like I had to urinate so bad I was going to wet the bed...then nothing!

I was getting these electric ZAP type feelings like I was being jolted by an electric wire! My whole body would jerk when I got these. And the ZAP feelings would go through my head!

I could not sleep at all but I did have these "mini-nightmares" that were so diabolically horrible it was like I had been dropped into Hell itself!

These were so horrible and frightening they were beyond my imagination! I was so scared, anxiety ridden and frightened out of my mind. What was happening to me?

I was also so weak I could barely lift my arms and even breathing seemed forced.

With a lot of desperate prayers, I somehow fought through this nightmare ( I also did so to give my poor wife a break ) but by the next morning I was so weak. I asked my daughter to give me half a piece of toast and ate this and within 5 to ten minutes my GI tract went into so much pain I screamed out. I started seeing spots soon there after ( I think I was going into shock ) and I cried out for my daughter to call 9-11 again and off I raced in another ambulance back to this local ER.

I didn't have a family doctor at this time. So I was completely dependent on this ER.

At the ER they did their basic tests of heart, blood, urine and body temp etc. but they said they couldn't see anything and wrote down that I was suffering from "anxiety!"

They loaded me up with Atavan and sent me home. They didn't even follow up on my complaints of my arm and hand and shoulder pain and other weird symptoms or even consider that I was having an adverse reaction to their prescribed Levaquin.

I swear...I truly believe they didn't even know what to look for...and they should have. They should have known the basic adverse reactions and signs of this regarding this drug Levaquin.

Instead of their professional position responsibility, they simply wrote me off as an anxiety ridden psyche case!

I raced back up to our ER so many times in that first week or two they started calling the psyche ward before they'd look at me and I was really treated like a psyche case as I kept telling them of my horrific symptoms.

I was even committed once over-night! First time in my local 54 year history here at this same hospital!

I was an employed family man ( concierge/bellman at a high end hotel ) with two college grad kids, a good job, a 25 year long good marriage, no drug or alcohol or smoking history and no criminal history. I was a solid citizen.

But now, I was just instantly a hypochondriac psych case over-night!

Later as I gradually got appointments with specialists ( I was in tears going to them I was so weak, hurting and damaged feeling) I was diagnosed with tendinitis, torn rotator cuff, bronchial asthma ( first time ) brady cardia into the thirties, scarring and ulceration of my small intestines.

I now had ringing in my ears, my eyes couldn't take the sun and my vision got worse over-night, I was off balance on my feet, I started getting fungal rashes immediately ( my whole right hand turned white and peeled like a snake the first week or two ( doctors just shrugged when they saw this.)

My heart seemed so weak I was tested and eventually I developed afib.

I fainted a few months later at this same hospital after going there so weak. Later that night I had a 3 and 1/2 second pause in my heart beat...all this...but I was still being treated like a psyche case.

I was "exaggerating" my symptoms. I was too frantic.

It's been five years since this Levaquin nightmare all started.

I am sorry to tell you that most of the symptoms I described are still with me.

And, even more tragically, I can't tell you how many doctors not only refuse to believe that Levaquin triggered or caused this...they get angry if I suggest it.

I can't sue anyone at the hospital for medical malpractice because of that criminal "one year" long statute of limitations (heck it almost always takes longer than that to know what happened to you and be strong enough to do anything about it!)

I lost my beloved job and career. I lost my health. I barely hung on to my family.

I have been through 5 years of nightmarish physical problems and even worse my local medical patient reputation. I've had doctors see my hospital records and see the psyche notes and stop their first consult and tell me they aren't the doctor for me.

My wife and I lost our credit and are broke after having to use credit to pay medical bills into the thousands and we've lost everything. I didn't get a penny in income for 2 years until a state official finally told me I should apply for Social Security Disability which I finally got and is $800 a month versus my making almost four times that before this Levaquin nightmare.

My wife is completely exhausted in every way and has to see a therapist herself after living through this nightmare for the last 5 years and having to carry us and me. She breaks down and cries often at how our lives have been devastated and we are always struggling.

This is all the truth. I do not need attention by exaggerating. This all started with a 5 day dose of Levaquin in late December, 2005.

At one point I called the Ortho-McNeil corporation ( Levaquin sellers ) product safety line and told the lady there my story.

She said " the doctors shouldn't have given you Levaquin with a diagnosis of electrolyte imbalance." That this condition shows your internal system is already in a weakened and precarious state and the drug is potent.

Even though I had an IV for one hour before I was given my first two Levaquin tablets...I do think this might be a reason this drug hit me so hard.

I have lost hope of ever being anything close to what I was before Levaquin. I am ruined forever I believe.

I have so many scary and depressing issues and symptoms.

But, the public must know about this drug and what it may do to those who are prescribed it.

Levaquin tragically and dangerously is now used as a "first line" antibiotic when it was designed to be a last "line one" because of it's potency.

Levaquin is the most widely used antibiotic in the country now and maybe even the world. 431 million prescriptions have been prescribed. It also is the most profitable antibiotic, making well over 1 billion a year for it's makers and sellers.

Please, if you develop any bad symptoms and problems like tendon issues or any others that you've never before experienced and this happens while or just after you take Levaquin...give a lot of thought of the possibility that the Levaquin may be causing or have caused these.

Hi, how long did you take the cipro? are all your symptoms gone ?

hi Carol.... curious about your back pain you suffered. I am almost four month out and although I am finally walking without crutches, I am having terrible back pain. I dread going to bed at night as I wake up many times only to be such pain that I feel like I have a mac truck on top of me. I can't even move. The pain is up each side of my spine, but more like the muscles up and down the back?? Once I get up and move around a bit it seems to feel a bit better ..during the day. This is new this past month. I am hoping it won't last forever. Does any of this sound familiar? thx

To tj Took physical therapy (back school) with deep massage for three months and was given a set of stretches to do every morning which helped me get over the pain. My hair which started to thin to the point I saw a dermatologist over it, had thyroid tests etc. which all came out clear finally grew back in after 8 months from the last dose of levaquin.

I hope all the people posting on this are informing the FDA about their reactions as they need to warn doctors.

On February 2,2011 I took a trip to the emergency room. I'm 18yrs old and described the sharp pains in my back my abdominal and stomach as well as the pain in my back. I was urinating more frequently and the doctor said it sounded like a possible uti and that's what I was treated for. I had an iv for about 2 hours with a dose of pain killers.

The pain still occurred so I was give cipro for the uti and a pain killer. Everything was fine on my way home. At night I took the second pill of cipro 500mg for 3 days. When I took it last night I was very drowsy and slurring my words. Half sleep I felt a tingling around my bottom lip and the tingling haven't stopped at all. I have a doctor appointment tomorrow.

I immediately stopped taking the medicine and only had 3 pills of cipro total. I'm just going to drink plenty of cranberry juice. This is a very scary feeling. All I can do is pray about it
God bless you all!

Ma Please report it to the FDA as the more they get the more they might take notice as well as the doctors who seem ignorant of it. Be sure to have your pharmacist and all Doctors note on your chart the you are allergic to Cipro family of drugs. Carry a note on your insurance card to the effect also. And tell all your family and others. Good luck

My story is probably similar to many others. After 2 days of Levaquin for pneumonia/sinus infection, I reported to the doctor that I was hallucinating, dehydrated, having panic attacks, couldn't sleep but couldn't get out of bed, hurting all over. He insisted that it was from the fever and that it could not be the meds. The next day, I tried to nap but sat up in bed hyperventilating and purple, and I was rushed to the ER. I was diagnosed with anxiety disorder (that turns your skin purple??).

Rewind to 2005, pre-flox. I really had no health problems to speak of. I trusted the doctors, and even the ER doctor told me to stay on the meds. I was also advised to take ibuprofen, albuterol, and prednisone. After my 2 week floxing, I was assured that any side effects from the meds would subside quickly.

Fast forward to 2009, I became completely disabled. My migraine pain became unmanageable, I was diagnosed with fibromyaligia, chronic fatigue syndrome, thyroid disease, dystonia, PCOS, neuropathy... I'm sure I'm forgetting something. Oh, Cushing's disease. I also had a stroke in 2007.

I am only 38 years old. I have given up the teaching career that I loved and worked so hard for. I am finally able to move around some after being off work for over a year, but my young daughter lost about 2 years of my time when I spent most of it sleeping or laying on the couch.

This drug should have been banned long ago. I pray that someday we will all be compensated for our injuries, but one thing that I do know for sure, "...And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." Rev. 21:4

I took one 500 mg dose of Levaquin in Nov 2010. I immediately felt nervous, so I discontinued use. 3 days later I was at ER with chest pains and fast heartbeat of 120 bpm and had numbness in my lower back and legs. They told me it was anxiety and gave me ativan. By the end of Nov I had a stiff neck, one week after that I had muscle spasms, tremors, in my head, back, and shoulders. I couldn't lift my arm or leg on left side.

I already had problems with my left arm tendonitis and bursitis in left hip. This drug just added fuel to my fire. I have been off of work with depression & insomnia that I never had before EVER. I have seen a neurologist and primary doc who could care less and state I have fibromyalgia. They put me on antidepressants, xanax, muscle relaxers etc. I have also taken Cipro and Flagyl in the past. My back is stiff with arthritic symptoms, I have loss of appetite and stomach pains. I have a 6 year old who needs her mom can and all I can do is cry for hours.

I feel hopeless in the fact that my symptoms have not improved much. The doctors could care less nor would they admit this drug could possibly have this effect after one dose. They treat you like you are crazy. I have always been a strong person, went to work, raised a family like a normal person. Except now I am the furthest thing from normal. To all those suffering, MAY GOD SHOW HIS GRACE ON YOU. I continue to pray for myself and all of you for a recovery from this drug.

Took Cipro for 4 months for an urological infection without issue. Was put on it again and took it for 3 days. A day after I had stopped the medication, I felt flu like symptoms without fever or any other issues. Two weeks later I still have weakness throughout my body and often feel like I am shivering internally. I have a bizarre feeling of "butterflies" within my legs, arms and torso. Hopefully these will disappear with time. I am taking magnesium, methylcobalamin B12, vitamin C and apple cider vinegar to try to rebuild my central nervous system...

Please people educate others I took this for 2 days and I broke out with hives all over i'am still in pain

Please, does anyone know how to get Leviquin out of your system. I am drinking a lot of fluid and eating a lot of vegetables. My physician prescribed it to me even though he knew I was allergic to Cipro/same family.

The first day I took pill my throat went hoarse and I kept coughing. I felt it was because I took it with milk. After that I took it with water. Day 7 the wheels came off. I woke up 4:55 AM running a fever, body aches like flu, massive headache, feeling lethargic. Couldn't stop sleeping. I went to clinic to be tested for flu and test negative but she asked for the name of the antibiotic.

I told her and she said throw it out you have an allergy. Now, here I am with the same cough, stuff didn't do anything but make me feel awful. I am on day 6 with no more Leviquin and still running fever 100.4+ in the afternoons, eyes hurt like h*** but no more aches. Soak the bed at night with night sweats. I want this drug out of my system.

I have been living with what I KNOW is being floxed for almost 2 years. 3 times my doctor prescribed this med to me along with steroids...I made no connection until I received an email from a law firm "have you or someone you love taken the prescription antibiotic levaquin?" Finally, I was able to put a "name" to what was going on when I started researching...since my first dose of levaquin to my last 2 pill dose of avelox that I stopped when my ankles flared up again, I have been to the doctor and the ER at least 15 times, maybe more..lost count... and still going.

I used to NEVER have to go to the doctor but now...everything hurts...from the physical to the mental, hallucinations, nightmares that I dare not mention to the same doctors that shrug their shoulders and say there is nothing wrong with you...I need not list the wide array of the problems, it would almost be endless because it seems like there is a new symptom appearing every day. Lets just say it has effected me from top to bottom...from my head to my toes literally.

I fight anger every day, I fight depression every day, I cry every day... I can only describe this drug as chemical warfare, the battles that rage within me as my body struggles for survival, are some days too much to take. That is my life now, daily survival, no living....no enjoyment. I have to be careful how I walk, turn, go down a step, get out of the car, so as to not pull or pop anything. I wake up stiff and in pain every day. I have to wrap ace bandages around my ankles then put on ankle supports just to be able to walk and try to not have a tendon rupture. I cannot see at night to drive anymore.

I have been diagnosed with possible rheumatoid arthritis (ruled out with blood work), fibromyalgia, MRSA, chronic fatigue syndrome, IBS, muscuoskeletal pain but not once have they specified tendons...several times I have tried to discuss with doctors, one got angry when I tried to show him the FDA report. The rest of them quickly dismissed my claims because they believe once it is out of your system you no longer suffer any affects. They ALL say it is rare..ok well RARE doesn't mean NEVER!!

Why won't you listen to me?? Why won't you take time to read at least or research a little more since I am paying you almost a 100 bux each time I am here!!! $1000's have been paid to the hospital for visits, tests, 3 times I have went to doctor and ER because my lymph nodes were very swollen, my thyroid also, one doctor now has me on thyroid med, helps VERY little, another doctor put me on adderol which is nothing but prescription SPEED!!! so I can get out of the bed every day...a slew of pain meds, muscle relaxers, steroids...

It seems to me I am the ONLY one who (it sounds to me) HAS a logical explanation yet M.D. who is a HEALTHCARE PROVIDER you shake your head at me, you slam your pen down on the counter, you smirk and ask, "is there ANYTHING that DOESN'T hurt?" You grin wide and say "there is no way this could be related to levaquin because you aren't taking it anymore", I hear "don't believe everything you read on the internet"...yada yada yada... You constantly prescribe me meds to treat all these symptoms, something for vertigo, I do not have vertigo, pain meds I HATE the way they make me feel and which ones are safe??? Up the dosage of blood pressure medicine, give me a script for IBS, give a script for hypothyroidism altho my blood work was fine!!!! Run numerous tests, xrays, cat scans, blood work because of my lymph nodes ALL over my body are enlarged....Yet you do not
even show the slightest interest in finding out the CAUSE of all these symptoms that did NOT occur until AFTER I disgested levaquin!!!!!!

I told the last doc you need to READ more about the quinolone issues before you ASSUME just because I am not taking it anymore I am not having related issues...how scary it is....to have to wonder every single day what this toxin is going to leave you with in the aftermath....will I recover? Will I get worse? Will I EVER sleep again...you know all night, it takes the body at least 7 hrs and so much sleep for our bodies to be able to heal themselves. I am so tired all the time.

It ANGERS me that I WAS NOT GIVEN A CHOICE!! I was not given a chance to make an educated decision as to take this or not to take this...I had faith in my doctor, I had trust in my doctor to KNOW everything he needed to before he prescribed medicine to me...boy did I get fooled...now I am paying dearly for it. UNNECESSARY LEVAQUIN VICTIM!

You definitely have it worse than me, but I took it about a month ago and I didn't even have an infection they found out. So I was given this for no reason.

I have weakness in my right arm all the time. And now the bottom of my feet hurt so much a month later. I worry that something is going to break off.

All of my doctors have also said it's impossible, and one even got mad also. They don't even know about the FDA warnings, and all the issues. They just don't to listen. They said I was overreacting. I don't know anyone that wants to go to the doctors office, if they don't need to.

Good Luck, if you find any help be sure to send info my way. I'll do the same.

What is this FDA warning and can someone post a link to the site or give info how to find it? Would love to have it to take to Doctor. I know that Cipro is the drug of choice for bladder infections and diverticulitis so having the info with me would be a backup. Thanks.

If I have taken Cipro in the past with no side effects, can I take Levaquin with no side effects?

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: MOST LIKELY, BUT NO GUARANTEES

To JR I took it a couple of times earlier and didn't notice any bad side effects then was given it twice within four months and had a full reaction - lost my sense of balance, dizzy, strange day dreams and muscle pain in back and legs for six months. Take it with extreme caution.

I am a Rheumatoid Arthritis patient on Plaquenil and Prednisone who was given Levaquin by an E.R. doctor for a severe sinus infection. I had never take it before and my full medical history/meds etc were clearly documented. After 2 doses I began with cramping in my left calf and felt tightness in my right Achilles tendon that was not present ever. After 3 doses I was having trouble walking and on day 4 before I took the 4th dose, the pain settled in my calf muscles, both legs, and I stopped taking the Levaquin.

I was prescribed Augumentin in its place but now, at day 8 since the E.R. visit I am still having serious trouble walking. Calf muscle pain continues and I can move/walk but it hurts and I walk at about the speed of a 90 year old. I am 61 years old. I am parking close to Handicap spots because it is a significant issue.

I have been told it could be Reactive Arthritis but it appears to affect the muscle rather than any joints. I have also been told it could be an allergic reaction to the Levaquin but allergies usually cause swelling, rash, itch etc, none of which are present.

Any similar experiences?

MMF, I still have the meds. Haven't taken any yet. My doc prescribed it for a sinus infection that won't go away (cough & drainage). I took 2 rounds of Augmentin last year and still have the symptoms which is why my doc gave me the Levaquin.

I have talked to several people who have taken it and had no problems whatsoever. But one of the side effects is sun sensitivity and it's summer and I have a pool and am out in it a lot. Am afraid that sunscreen won't be enough, so I just haven't taken it yet.

I have taken Cipro for pneumonia but that was 13 yrs. ago. Had no problems with it so I'm hoping if I take the Levaquin I'll continue to be lucky. I thought if you had RA you should not take Levaquin. Sorry to hear about your problems with it.

I had an infection and went to a new doctor. She prescribed prednisone and Cipro. The pharmacist asked if the doctor had told me about the risk of tendonitis. I told him no, and elected to take both meds anyway.

I have nightmares and pain all over my body. Sometimes it even seems as if I am in a half asleep/half awake stage. I did not tell anyone because it sounds so crazy. It just came to me to check the possible side effects of the medications. I'm glad that I did. I feel much better knowing that it is probably the medication and not that I'm losing my mind.

did the prostate problems go away?

I used Leva while in the hospital. The Drs. prescribed the meds to me to keep me from getting pneumonia.. half the ER Drs. told me I had pneumonia and others told me they had no idea why I was taking the meds for it as my x-rays were clear.. Drs seem to just throw this medication at you without proper diagnosis or explaining the side effects at all.. I took it before I heard that my x-rays were clear.

- I hallucinated a few hours after the injection in my iv. I have never hallucinated or had such a reaction in my life and it was absolutely terrifying. It is almost unexplainable to explain the images I was seeing. I literally thought I was in a "predator" type movie being chased and it seemed more real than anything I had ever experienced. I sat up in my hospital bed and stared at the clock after this "episode" until I could regain my composure - thinking it had been 30 minutes since I sat up, husband told me it had actually only been 30 seconds. I was shaking but I couldn't figure out why. Was I cold? Was I scared? Was I just feeling ill?

It was also very difficult to understand what was going on and I was very dizzy and disoriented. I was not dreaming/sleeping before this episode, but cannot remember what was happening before this "thing" happened to me or how long the hallucinations were going on for. Time and reality weren't comprehendible to me for a while after though I remember every detail of the events. We told the nurse a little while later when I had calmed down and was back to "normal". She never did anything nor called the Dr right away about my episode. I was released from the hospital the next morning with no explanation as to what happened to me. I was extremely tired as I only slept about an hour in the hospital even though I was there from a thursday night until saturday morning. After having this bought of hallucinating, I could not fall back asleep.

I did some research and found that Leva has done this to others. I also think I not only hallucinated but might have had an "aura seizure" as the description others have described are very much like my own experience.

I have never been the same since, its hard to describe, I just have never felt like my old self. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia prior and Rheumatoid Arthritis though blood test could not be confirmed before I was ever prescribed Levaquin so I already suffered with a lot of pain beforehand because of these diseases. But I honestly feel that the levaquin has increased these pains and added to the problems I was having.

I was still very active and not on any meds for fibro or RA during the levaquin injections since I had treatments for both and the medications did not work. I am still not on any meds for the ra/fibro as my next step was chemo and I chose not to do such a harsh medication for the rest of my life and I was not going to take meds that weren't working.

I was still "okay" with fibro/ra before the Leva but after it was a completely different story.. it took weeks to even be able to drive my car again or to walk downstairs.. fixing dinner was too much work and I would get extremely dizzy just upon standing.

I really think the Leva did something to my "brain" and body that is unexplainable. I will tell Drs. that I hallucinated on this medication and I will refuse to take it if I ever become ill.

I am taking levofloxcin for my prostate, the first time it worked. I'm taking it again 6 months later for the same thing which is enlarged prostate. It's a 14 day supply I developed anxiety attacks after 10 days of taking it along with joint pain, some abdominal pain, light headedness, tingling in hands and feet, some burning in the chest wall, hard to breathe, slight cough, am going to call my doctor today.

Hi Jamie,

Do you still have digestive problems from taking Cipro? I just finished the antibiotic and had to stop early because it gave me major D. Still having it over 48 hours later, and just wanted to know what kind of digestive problems you had when taking it and how long it lasted for.

I am 17 months out from being treated with Leva 750 mg, Prednisone, NSAIDs for lung infection in a hospital. Was not consulted, wanted to go home, not sick enough to stay - ER doc ignored me. I walked into the hospital, no crippling. Well, my reaction was severe and immediate. 7 days later I was released, crippled, 16 pounds lighter - in extreme pain. They said "bad infection - rest".

It got much worse at home - every organ in my body was visited with electrical like pains. I can't take care of myself, walk, open a window - invalid. by the third week, I want my medical records from the stay, the "bad infection - rest" bit is pissing me off and I am scared. Long hassle but I got them - I had never heard of Leva - my ADR was severe and recorded - they never told me. They did stop it after five days but I had already had burning inflamed hand from IV, thumbs had stopped working, legs crumbled under me - think like mad cow disease. Every doctor denied Leva could do this, everyone of them said they used it all the time and no problems. The first doctor who stated this - turned white when I told him I suspected leva....... strange doctor visit he never examined me at all. I went through series of tests - all negative.

Folks, I contacted every medical health care watch dog agency. Of course, I contacted FDA, Medwatch. I contacted DHHS, CMS, the QIO for my area, the CEO of the hospital because the The Joint Commission (who accredited hospitals) suggested I do so. Hospital blew it off rather crudely. No surprise. But the rest of these agencies - they all have in their mission statements - they want to hear from you about any in appropriate drugs being prescribed. Well, they are all bogus. They all deny the existence of the Black box warning and further, state the use of mega doses of Prednisone, NSAIDs is just fine. This is pretty shocking - they made these statements in writing on their pretty stationary. ........ kinda crazy that they put in black and white the black box warnings do not exist, except if all agencies say this, maybe there are hundreds of thousands victims (all these agcenies refused to do report - could that be the reason it is under-reported?), being sent to gawd knows how many specialist after their primary doctor gets his battery of tests run and charged to you and tells you, 'they don't have a clue' even after you tell them these are leva floxing symptoms........ don't even think of all the people who have died from these drugs and it is not listed correctly. Think of permanent patients spending thousands of dollars and in extreme pain. There are other drugs that do not carry these risks - it is absurd they are being allowed to do this to an uninformed public.

I have a full thickness torn rotator cuff(MRI), plus various other ailments. I, who was on no meds at all, rarely took a IBF - nothing, am now on opiate pain meds daily. When I find a real educated, lucid Ortho - I will have surgery. If your new doc does not pay any attention to what "really happened" - they can make it worse by giving you steroids, NSAIDs - that has already happened to me.

There is a new organization that has just been formed to take positive actions. I know the people from over a year now. There are two who have made the news with their stories - one was a professor in another state(local) and another was on PBS, a young mother who is now invalid. Please join one of these groups. Please let's petition the government and get these horrid drugs under some control. It breaks my heart to read of the newbies who have been harmed - it is appalling that this is happening a so called power nation - we have third world medical care.

I hope this reaches those who have been damaged - I hate to tell you but once you are floxed - you really are floxed forever. Get this information out. People may have taken one of these drugs in the past and not noticed - their second or third time may be deadly.

Wish you all good luck - let us work to get these drugs exposed and under control.

Quinolone drugs are a hazard and should be taken off the market. I had a reaction to levaquin in 2005, it gave me severe anxiety and since then I have had panic attacks. My sister had a physical reaction just this year, 2011, to levaquin where she lost control of her muscles and started to stutter after just one dose. Thankfully this was not permanent.

Another friend of mine just this week took levaquin for a sinus infection, three doses and had such severe tendon pain he could not stand. This is still ongoing even though he stopped taking it.

I took Cipro as a completely healthy 29 year old male and it almost killed me.
It began on my 6th day on Cipro for a stomach bug with a tight pain in my side and then progressed over several days to heart palpitations, vomiting, low potassium, high serum calcium, TSH fluctuations, hallucinations, nightmares, insomnia, suicidal thoughts, memory loss, depersonalization, nerve pain, parastesia in my hands and feet, tendonitis, myalga, dieriea, loss of taste, chronic dehydration, and anorexia.

I lost 19 lbs in 2 weeks and was very lean to begin. This occurred 11 months ago. I am still not completely recovered, but am doing much better and expect a full recovery. I am one of the lucky victims that has recovered quickly.

I was prescribed 500mg Cipro 2x a day for ten days for what I believed was a minor uti. My doctor wasn't in, but the PA found traces of blood and protein in my urine and prescribed the Cipro. She also told me that I might have kidney stones, which could explain the blood. I'm a 40yr old male, always kept myself in decent shape, slim and active.

Mind you, the uti i had wasn't severe in my mind...I barely decided to go see the doc, since I never had one before. My only symptom was a very slight discomfort in my urethra when urinating, and a sometimes slight tingle in the same area. Within a day of starting the Cipro, I began to feel a dull discomfort/pain, nothing severe, on my right flank behind my lower ribcage (behind the ribs, not below-as many others have). Within another day, the dull discomfort spread to more of the right flank, and now the kidney area also.

I was drinking more water than ever in my life, urinating every 20 minutes or so (clear). I was feeling bloated, which didn't make sense to me, as my understanding through years of exercise was that drinking more water helps to clear bloat. Fearing that my internal organs, mainly the liver and kidneys might be becoming inflamed, I returned to my doctor (after day 4 on Cipro) and expressed that I thought I was not reacting well to the Cipro. He tested my urine again and told me that if I was having an allergic reaction, I'd have rashes or other skin discoloration. My urine was also showing less blood at this point.

I trusted him, went home and continued taking the Cipro. By day seven, the dull pain/discomfort continued and got worse. I now had this feeling of 'something's not right' in my entire torso. My lower ribs on both sides felt sore. I was completely bloated in the torso area. I also had noticed a very slight tinge of yellow (very slight, but there) change to my face. I returned to google/the internet and read enough to convince me that the Cipro was at the very least partially-if not full responsible for this feeling.

I was (am) scared that I might have caused liver or kidney damage, etc.... I decided to stop taking the Cipro last night, and went to bed. This morning I woke up, and the majority of the rib cage and flank pain seems to have subsided thus far. I'm feeling weak and a little feverish, but not running a temperature. My stomach feels as though something's wrong, but I have no diarrhea. It's as if there's a rock sitting in my stomach. My stool is the right color (not lighter), and my face seems to have it's normal pinkish white color again.

It's been about 28hrs since my last dose of Cipro right now. I do feel better in a way, but am thoroughly convinced that if not of the Cipro, I would NOT be feeling any of this right now. I'm going for a sonogram of my right side, back, kidneys, liver tomorrow. Obviously hoping all's clear. I've never had an allergic reaction to any medication in my life. I've never been sickly or frequently sick. This is all very alarming to me. Had I known about all of this beforehand, I would NEVER have taken this drug. I hope to feel normal again soon, but am worried I might have done some damage to my innards, at least temporarily.

Jamie, I took Floxin for tonsillitis 19 yrs. ago and I am still having problems. I eat broccoli all the time, one of my favorite foods, all of a sudden couldn't eat it and got violently ill if I did. Told I might have fibromyalgia 3 yrs later, then 3 yrs later confirmed had fibromyalgia and now I have diarrhea about two days a week can't leave the house and have wheat intolerance. Up to this point I was a healthy energetic young mother. I never dreamed that a antibiotic could do this to anyone.

My son was given Levaquin on Jan. 17 2011. On Jan. 22 2011 I took him off life support. Christopher was allergic to Cipro; they gave him the Levaqin and sent us home. On Jan. 20th he died in my arms. They brought him back after 25 mins. Jan. 22 I kissed my angel good bye.

Christopher was 30 yrs old. he had Down syndrome, we trusted a doctor and now I have a big empty hole in my heart. I don't want to see the next child suffer like my son did, or the next parent have to re-live what I re-live every day.

I was prescribed levaquin for lyme disease and subsequently cipro for upper resp infection during 2010 and 2011.

The damage these drugs cause includes new peripheral neuropathy, new tendonitis, new insomnia, new vision disturbances, new panic attacks, new muscle pain and new damage to every organ system; digestive, brain, skin, liver, gall bladder, etc. The adverse drug reaction happened while on the drug, but other symptoms presented after I stopped them. Many adverse drug reactions can appear weeks to months after you discontinue.

Please avoid all antibiotics which are in the quinolone category (including cipro, levaquin and avelox) unless you consider the risks and know your genetic impairements which might cause these drugs to poison you.

One thing to check is your methylization cycle.

If you have been "floxed," find support online and do your own research. Find a Fluoroquinolone drug reaction dr that will support your recovery

Sherry W., I am so sorry for your loss. I know how wonderful children with Down syndrome are as I have a wonderful daughter with DS. I too also know how dangerous these drugs are having been disabled by taking Levaquin over fours years ago. Your story is such a poigniant one as to why society must be made aware of the dangers of these drugs. Again, I am sorry for the loss of your wonderful angel.

Everyone should always eat yogurt or pro-biotics with any antibiotics. Over the years I have had soooo many ear infections common antibiotics don't work for me ie amoxicillin. This should be used first before any major antibiotics. That's common sense. Z-pack was developed for bronchitis.

If you break out in a rash or have pain stop meds immediately. Common sense says know your body. If it is a virus don't take antibiotics, wait it out. More antibiotics you take the less effective they will be. I have NEVER had any symptoms with these drugs.

If you are having hallucinations and such you might want to see a neurologist, even if it is a side effect might be something going on.

Use common sense before taking meds. If you feel it might go away on its own wait to take meds. Unless heart, lung, diabetes any major disease. Also be careful what you read, your mind is a powerful organ, you might make it up and believe you have.

People's Pharmacy response: While it is a good idea to use probiotic supplements and live culture yogurt while taking antibiotics, they should not be taken at the same time, but separated by several hours. Yogurt and other dairy foods can prevent absorption of ciprofloxacin and some other fluoroquinolones.

Exact thing happened to me. After Cipro (levaquin), I've had a terrible set of symptoms which mimic Fibro or CFS. No official diagnosis. Visited Dr. 20+ times including a rheumatologist. Has anything helped you? - Cutting gluten has helped me some. My symptoms persist today.

Omg thank you all for your post Sherry reading your post brought tears to my eyes I'm sorry for your lost ;( I have bladder infection I've been on cip for 2 days . Bladder seems to be better but omg my poor back and my stomach I almost thought I'd die in my boyfriend's bathroom floor, with hot and cold chills, my stomach was in pain. After reading all this I will not be taking these pills.

I have good news for everyone who has taken cipro or levaquin. You will get better. Two years ago I was floxed, and now I am 100 percent better. At that time I could barely walk, I was nauseated, and miserable. I felt trapped in my house but I finally went back to college and about 8 months later I started to feel myself again. Slowly but surely I am not back to being almost perfect. It is a million times better then where I was. And I wanted to let you all know that it was okay for me and I hope it will all turn out better for you. I wish you all luck, and try your best and work to getting better.

I have been taking cipro for going on 5 or 6 days for a UT infection. My back was hurting pretty bad before I took the meds. I have felt I have had parasites of some kind for years.. Now my back is starting to feel better. I was dizzy waking up one morning but that is gone. I used to wake up with this wad of something in my throat but that is gone. I feel less swelling in my body and my breath doesn't taste metallic as much anymore. Whatever is that lived in me sure does not like cipro.

You say that it feels like something is crawling out of your anus? You may have pinworms. See: http:/bit.ly/yV2BtJ

How long did it take for the shaking to stop?

I had surgery Dec 28 to remove a faulty bladder sling (had mesh erosion etc) Doctor put me on an antibiotic after surgery which is standard. He gave me Levaquin 500mg once a day for ten days. Day 3 after surgery I was feeling pretty good and getting up and around, on my way to recovery, yay. Then about day 5, my hips were hurting really bad and thought it was from surgery and the part of the sling (that is attached in your pelvic girdle) that was not removed. They assured me it had nothing to do with my surgery.

About day 8 I was feeling terrible, hurting all over, especially my hips. But by this time my shoulders and ankles were hurting too. I felt like an 80 year old crippled woman and had no idea what was wrong with me. Looked all over internet at my symptoms and just happened to stumble on something about Levaquin. Soon as I read it, I was like Yep that is me!!!!!

I took the whole ten day course. No one warned me of anything!!!! As soon as I started hurting, I would have known and stopped taking it. I am now on anti-inflammatory and pain med. For how long, who knows, but I plan on suing for this as well. The bladder sling is the first lawsuit.

So sorry to hear this has happened to you. I know from experience being given 750 mg IV along with Prednisone, NSAID's, antacids in mega doses - having severe toxic shock event in hospital and no one told me - I was crippled by the 7th day. Please consult an online blog regarding Floxing by Levaquin (FQ's in general), what you are going to be told by professional board certified health care givers may not be the whole story (cough, cough).

Find what is safe for your new floxed body and what is not. Wish you luck for full recovery and any legal satisfaction you may find. In case you do not know, the problems with Leva - FQ's in general have been known for decades. After Public Citizen sued FDA (2008) to get the black box warning - the physicians increased - INCREASED - prescribing them. Ask your self why this odd reaction to a risky drug, and why they profess total ignorance of the risks... and they do not consult, let alone tell what they used on you until legal action is threatened.

I am a registered nurse and have given Cipro and Flagyl many times----when I had to take it myself for a diverticulitis attack, I realized what my patients were going thru... the side effects are horrendous... the worst was the severe depression I had for a week.... as soon as I stopped the medication, I was back to my old self. I told my physician, "I will never take these meds again... you will have to find something else if I get a reoccurance."

She put a note in my file to use Vancomycin and another antibiotic of some sort... It was TERRIBLE.... If you have that problem, don't worry, it is not you, it is the medicine you are taking !!!!!!!!

Had both a diverticulitis and a bladder infection while out of town at same time and the Dr. I got in to see saw that I had written allergic to Cipro, Levaquin and all floxins and believed me.

Put me on Flagyl and an old fashioned sulfa medication. Flagyl made me nauseated so after 24 hours told me to stop it and just take the sulfa plus liquid diet and lots of water. The old standby worked and was so much cheaper than the Cipro etc.

I was put on Levaquin (750mg for 14 days) for a sinus infection back in October of 2011. On the 31st I had severe attacks of vertigo that sent me to the hospital. Since then, I have been sicker than ever. I have about 25 symptoms. My balance is way off and I am dizzy 24/7. My life has stopped and I am only 29 yrs old. I might lose my job and I am suppose to get married soon. I am looking for some kind of hope for a better future.

I have been sick for 14 years. I took floxin for a urinary tract infection. I only took one pill and I was in a comma for 30 days after taking it. When I woke up I forgot a lot. I forgot I had baby 6 weeks before. I have a long story. Too much to type. But floxin hurt me bad very bad. They should have it on the market for people to take.