Texas, California, Florida Lawyers / Attorneys: Evaluating Nationwide Levaquin® Tendon Ruptures, Tendonitis

Levaquin® Linked to Tendonitis and Tendon Rupture
You may be entitled to compensation!

About Levaquin®

Levaquin® (brand-name: Levofloxacin) is a powerful antibiotic in a class known as fluroquinones, and is most commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections of  the sinus, skin, lungs, or urinary tract. As a rule, Levaquin® is prescribed only to adults, as problems with joints have been noted when it is administered to children.

The Side Effects of Levaquin®

On July 8, 2008, the FDA requested that Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceutical, the manufacturer of Levaquin®, place a boxed warning on packaging concerning the increased risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture while and after taking the medication.

The Food and Drug Administration issued the following alert in October 2008: "Fluoroquinolones, including Levaquin®, are associated with an increased risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture in all ages. This risk is further increased in older patients usually over 60 years of age, in patients taking corticosteroid drugs, and in patients with kidney, heart and lung transplants."

The FDA added: "Tendon rupture can occur during or after completion of therapy; cases occurring up to several months after completion of therapy have been reported. Levaquin® should be discontinued if the patient experiences pain, swelling, inflammation or rupture of a tendon. Patients should be advised to rest at the first sign of tendonitis or tendon rupture, and to contact their health care provider regarding changing to a non-quinolone antimicrobial drug."

Despite the warning, the FDA has determined that a large number of tendon injuries are still being reported by patients who are taking or have taken Levaquin®.

Tendonitis and Ruptured Tendons

Tendons are the parts of the body that connect muscles to bones, and are essential for proper movement and mobility. Tendonitis (also called tendinitis) refers to the inflammation of a tendon, and is a term used to refer to more severe injuries to the tendon. Tendonitis can occur in many parts of the body and is extremely painful. Achilles tendonitis of the heel and patellar tendonitis of the knee are common examples.

A ruptured tendon refers to a snapped or torn tendon, which can cause excruciating pain and may result in a permanent disability. Depending on the degree and type of injury, ruptured tendons may be treated with surgery or through immobilization, such as with a cast.

Some symptoms of tendonitis or a ruptured tendon might include:

•    Bruising after injury to a tendon area
•    Pain or swelling in a tendon area
•    A snap or pop in a tendon area
•    Inability to move the affected area or bear weight

If you or a loved one have been prescribed Levaquin® and have experienced any of these symptoms, please contact us immediately for a free consultation.

Do not discontinue taking any medication, including Levaquin®, without first consulting with a physician.

Who We Are

The Mulligan Law Firm is a national law firm located in Dallas, Texas who provides information and resources for injured individuals and their families in all 50 states. The firm has successfully represented thousands of individuals, obtaining over $600,000,000 in settlements or jury verdicts for its clients since 1995.

The Mulligan Law Firm is currently investigating injury claims involving Levaquin's involvement in tendon injuries, including tendonitis and ruptured tendons. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured after taking Levaquin it is important that you consult with a legal professional immediately. The Mulligan Firm has experienced lawyers standing by to help you.

You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. We take all cases on a contingency-fee basis, which means you do not pay for our services unless you receive an award or compensation. Do not delay, as your rights and compensation may be lost forever if you wait!