Levaquin (levofloxacin) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is a powerful drug, but it can also cause serious side effects, including tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and aortic dissection and aneurysm.
In recent years, there has been a wave of lawsuits filed against the manufacturers of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, including Levaquin. These lawsuits allege that the manufacturers knew about the risks of these drugs, but failed to adequately warn doctors and consumers.
In 2022, there were several notable developments in the Levaquin lawsuit. In February, a federal judge in Minnesota granted class-action status to a lawsuit filed by plaintiffs who allege that Levaquin caused them to develop tendon rupture. In June, a jury in Pennsylvania awarded $11.8 million to a plaintiff who alleged that Levaquin caused him to develop peripheral neuropathy.
The Levaquin lawsuit is still ongoing, but it has already had a significant impact on the way that fluoroquinolone antibiotics are prescribed and used. In 2017, the FDA issued a black box warning for fluoroquinolone antibiotics, which is the strongest warning that the agency can give. The black box warning warns that fluoroquinolone antibiotics should only be used as a last resort and that they should be avoided by patients who have a history of tendon problems or peripheral neuropathy.
FAQs:
Q: What are the risks of taking Levaquin?
A: The risks of taking Levaquin include tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and aortic dissection and aneurysm. These side effects can be serious and life-threatening.
Q: Who should not take Levaquin?
A: Levaquin should be avoided by patients who have a history of tendon problems, peripheral neuropathy, or aortic aneurysm. It should also be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Q: What should I do if I have taken Levaquin and I am experiencing side effects?
A: If you have taken Levaquin and you are experiencing side effects, you should see a doctor immediately. You may also want to consider talking to a lawyer about your legal options.
Q: Is there a Levaquin class-action lawsuit?
A: Yes, there is a Levaquin class-action lawsuit that was granted class-action status in February 2022. This lawsuit is open to anyone who has taken Levaquin and developed tendon rupture.
Q: How much money can I get from a Levaquin lawsuit?
A: The amount of money that you can get from a Levaquin lawsuit will vary depending on the severity of your injuries and the facts of your case. However, some plaintiffs have been awarded millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts.
Q: How do I find a lawyer to represent me in a Levaquin lawsuit?
A: There are many lawyers who represent plaintiffs in Levaquin lawsuits. You can find a lawyer by searching online or by contacting your local bar association.
Conclusion:
The Levaquin lawsuit is a complex and ongoing case. However, it is important for patients who have been injured by Levaquin to know that they have legal options. If you have taken Levaquin and you are experiencing side effects, you should talk to a lawyer to discuss your case.
References:
- FDA Black Box Warning for Fluoroquinolones: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-updates-warnings-fluoroquinolone-antibiotics-risks-mental-health-and-low-blood-sugar-adverse
- Levaquin Lawsuit Granted Class-Action Status: https://www.millerandzois.com/products-liability/drugs/other-drug-cases/levaquin-litigation-history/
- Jury Awards $11.8 Million in Levaquin Lawsuit: https://www.drugwatch.com/news/2016/01/26/jj-faces-800-m-levaquin-lawsuit/
