I was first exposed to the rising problem of Levaquin and Cipro toxicity while practicing in Los Angeles. A patient of mine was given this antibiotic for a minor infection. After the 3rd pill of Cipro, this patient developed a severe adverse reaction. Nine months into this injury additional adverse symptoms began to appear. One year later we have seen improvements but walking still requires a crutch or cane. Together we have continued to find more information in this area, and now realize this is a much larger problem than we first thought. In following my acknowledgement of video versus articles from above here is a special report from PBS on this subject.
Levaquin is an antibiotic in the family of fluoroquinolones which include Cipro (ciprofloxacin), Cipro XR, Proquin XR, Factive, Avelox, Noroxin, and Floxin. It is commonly prescribed for ailments such as sinus, bladder and urinary tract infections. It was also said to have been effective against Anthrax, although doxycycline is less expensive and more commonly used. Fluoroquinolones work by interrupting the DNA synthesis of bacteria, however, it has been seen to do the same for mammalian cells (we are mammals) in laboratory cultures.
There is a growing community of patients who have been prescribed these antibiotics and have had severe side effects including rupture of the Achilles tendon, peripheral neuropathies, severe joint and muscle pain, and immobility. These patients range in ages from their early 20’s through the elderly and many of them were physically fit and active before their exposure to this antibiotic. Most of them were unable to complete the entire prescription because the reactions happened so quickly or were so severe.
There have now been two Black Box Warnings placed on these antibiotics, one for the possibility of tendon rupture, and one for peripheral neuropathy. However, the other possible side effects, which have not been added to the Black Box list, include double vision or loss of vision, psychotic reactions, increased cranial pressure and seizures. Corticosteroids and NSAIDS, used to relieve the pain caused by the drugs, seem to make the side effects worse. Fluoroquinolones are not to be used in pregnant mothers, and only in children with complicated urinary tract infections or anthrax exposure. This is because of the high risk of fatalities and permanent injuries to the child’s musculoskeletal system.
Since significant research into treatment is slow for this problem, most successful treatments spread through ‘word of mouth.’ As with most complex health problems no one treatment will work for everyone, however, there are a number of treatments that do seem to help many people. For example, magnesium seems to be one of the most popular treatments. Magnesium works by binding the antibiotic and removing it from the system. Also, magnesium is helpful to relax the muscles, therefore, releasing the strain on tendons. Magnesium is best absorbed in supplement form but can also be absorbed through an Epsom Salt bath. In my experience, detoxification through the cysteine and glutathione pathways along with muscle and tendon work by a knowledgeable healthcare practitioner has been beneficial in recovering some mobility. Bone broth is another way to get the nutrients necessary for repair and healing into the body.
In my opinion, this unnecessary problem is on the rise. If you are prescribed any of these antibiotics, ask your doctor for another alternative. Please do not hesitate to pass this information along. If you know someone who is suffering from this please have them contact the FDA. The more reports the FDA receives; the quicker changes will be made in the prescribing of this medication.