Levaquin is class of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolone.  Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are widely prescribed for the treatment of a variety of urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, prostatitis, and other types of bacterial infections. Although researchers are still investigating exactly how fluoroquinolones cause tendon injuries, studies suggest that they can degrade tendon cells. Tendons then easily tear or rupture.

Approximately 20 tendon-injury lawsuits have been brought against Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiary Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, which manufacture and distribute Levaquin. The claims include strict products liability for manufacturing and design defect, and strict liability for failure to warn.

Watch-dog groups first petitioned the FDA to place a warning about the risk of tendinitis  and tendon rupture on the package inserts for all the fluoroquinolones on the market in 1996. That petition was successful. In 2002 and again in 2007, the label was further amended. It now states that the risk of tendon injury is higher in patients who take corticosteroids at the same time, especially the elderly.

If you or someone you know has had tendon injury while taking Levaquin call our office today.  Our experienced team of attorneys will properly evaluate your case.  619.615.0767