Levaquin Lawsuit
Levaquin, manufactured by Johnson & Johnson’s Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., was first approved by the FDA for use in December of 1996. In 2007, the drug generated $1.6 billion, accounting for 6.5% of Johnson and Johnson’s total revenue. That same year Levquin was the 37th most prescribed drug in the United States.
Levaquin Injuries Include an Increase Risk of Tendon Rupture
Levaquin comes from a group of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones. Fluoroquinolones, and Levaquin in particular, have been associated 
with an increased risk of tendon rupture and tendinitis in persons of all ages. A tendon rupture is the tearing of the fibrous tissue that connects bone to muscle. This rupture may occur during the use of Levaquin or up to several months after that use. While Levaquin may cause a tendon rupture to people of any age, the risk is higher for men and women over the age of 60 and those taking injectable steroids.
A tendon rupture is a serious complication which the individual will experience a great deal of pain and will likely require a subsequent surgery to repair. The most common ruptured tendon with Levaquin is the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles. It is the thickest and strongest tendon in the body and assist in everyday activities such as walking, running, and jumping. Reports have also associated Levaquin with tendon ruptures in the shoulder, biceps, hand and thumb.
While all fluoroquinolone have been associated with tendon ruptures, studies indicate that use of Levaquin creates a greater risk for ruptures. These ruptures have occurred at an alarming rate. However, many of these injuries could have been prevented had both consumers and doctors been made aware of Levaquin’s serious side effects.
Manufacturers of Levaquin Failed to Warn of Potential Harms
While Johnson & Johnson was aware of reports and studies linking Levaquin to tendon rupture, the corporation declined to inform consumers of these potential harms. As early as 1996 consumer advocacy groups were requesting that stronger warnings be provided by for the use of Levaquin. After mounting reports and studies the FDA was forced to act in July of 2008 when they required that Levaquin add a “black box” warning on the label of the drug. “Black box” warnings are the strongest type of warnings which can be placed on prescription medication. The language of this warning states that fluoroquinolones, including Levaquin, are associated with an increased risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture.
Attorneys at The Potts Law Firm are currently assisting individuals who have suffered a tendon rupture as a result of using Levaquin. In June of 2008, all Levaquin tendon rupture claims were consolidated before the Honorable John R. Tunheim in Federal Court in Minnesota. If you or a loved one has suffered tendon damage as a result of Levaquin use, please do not hesitate to contact one of our qualified attorneys. We will perform a free consultation and determine if you have a cause of action against the manufacturers of Levaquin.
Levaquin (levofloxacin) is an antibiotic medication. It is used in individuals 18 or older to treat infection cause by germs including acute bacterial sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, complicated and uncomplicated skin infections, and urinary tract infections. Levaquin is used in the treatment of bacteria, not viruses. The drug is prescribed in multiple forms including tablet, oral solution and intravenous.
