Studies suggest that certain fluoroquinolone drugs may lead to the development of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) in some patients. Drugs such as Levaquin, Cipro, and Avelox are under investigation and are being named in fluoroquinolone peripheral neuropathy lawsuits.

Peripheral neuropathy can cause weakness, numbness, and pain in the limbs. Traditionally, the symptoms will start in the hands and feet and possibly spread to other areas in the body. Peripheral neuropathy patients have a range of pain caused by the nerve damage.

Some experience tingling or burning while others experience a loss of sensation in the affected part of the body. Nerves that control muscle movement or that involve basic functions (blood pressure, digestion, heart rate, and bladder function) also have the possibility of being affected by peripheral neuropathy.

FDA Fluoroquinolone Peripheral Neuropathy Warning

In August 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required all fluoroquinolone antibiotics to more adequately describe the peripheral neuropathy side effect risk. Fluoroquinolones are some of the most prescribed antibiotics in the country. 

The FDA said that peripheral neuropathy “can occur at any time during treatment with fluoroquinolones and can last for months to years after the drug is stopped or be permanent.” The FDA also said that while the risk of peripheral neuropathy is technically on the warning labels of common fluoroquinolone drugs, “the potential rapid onset and risk of permanence were not adequately described.”

One study published in the August edition of Neurology suggested that taking antibiotics like Levaquin, Cipro, and Avelox could double the risk of developing permanent peripheral neuropathy. The FDA recommends that a patient stop using the fluoroquinolone drug if symptoms of peripheral neuropathy develop.

Fluoroquinolone drugs are used to treat bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, sinus infections, and ear infections.