Levaquin (levofloxacin) is one of the most popular fluoroquinolone antibiotics in the United States, however, numerous patients report serious side effects.

Fluoroquinolones have already been associated with serious complications like tendon ruptures, but adverse cardiac conditions may also occur.

In 2008, the FDA added a black box warning to fluoroquinolones regarding tendon ruptures and other collagen related complications. This means that one possible side effect of Levaquin is aortic dissection.

Based on recent studies, experts believe the treatment mechanism causing tendon ruptures may also cause cause aortic dissection. One of these recent studies was published in October 2015 in JAMA Internal Medicine, which focused the possible correlation between Levaquin side effects and aortic dissection.

The study found a two-fold increased risk of experiencing painful and potentially fatal antibiotic side effects. A similar study published the same year in BMJ had found similar results: fluoroquinolones may cause collagen damage leading to aortic dissection and aneurysms.

Overview of Aortic Dissection

As the main artery in the body, the aorta is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body. Aortic dissection occurs when the interior layers of the aorta weaken. This can lead to the artery tearing open.

Blood may then leak between the different layers of tissue in the vessel wall, which interrupts the flow of blood to other organs. All cases of aortic dissection can be potentially fatal, which makes early intervention vital for the patient’s survival.

There is no way to reverse the aortic dissection, so patients typically have to undergo an intensive open chest surgery to have the weakened section of the aorta removed. Patients are then placed on restrictive activities and diet, similarly recommended to patients undergoing heart surgery or who have heart disease.

Levaquin Side Effects

With aortic dissection being such a serious condition, it is highly concerning that this could be a potential addition to fluoroquinolone antibiotic side effects. It is currently estimated that 26 million people receive fluoroquinolone prescriptions every year.

Levaquin is one of the most preferred of this class.

Even though the drug is popular, many patients report adverse Levaquin side effects. Other injuries associated with Levaquin side effects include peripheral neuropathy, tendon ruptures, and the severe allergic skin reaction, Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS).

Even though these conditions are life altering and potentially fatal, patents complain that the Levaquin side effects were not mentioned on the warning label. Many patients allege the manufacturing company failed to notify them of potential Levaquin side effects which led to their injuries.

Patients who suffered Levaquin aortic dissection or aneurysm may be eligible to file legal action against the manufacturing company, and should consult with a specialized lawyer.