Peripheral Neuropathy from Levaquin (fluoroquinolone antibiotic)

[jgrobertson]

I took two doses of 500 MG Levaquin on consecutive days, then stopped.  Now a week later I still have tingling in my hands and arms.  Peripheral Neuropathy is a rare adverse reaction to quinolones. I have reported this to the FDA and to McNeil.  The waring statement says (may be reversible if treated in time).  Another just says irreversible.  The 2004 warning from the FDA states:  "{the drug} should be discontinued if the patient experiences symptoms of neuropathy . . . in order to prevent the development of an irreversible condition."

Should I be alarmed about this and seek treatment from a Neurologist or will it go away?  The doctor who prescribed it does not seamed to be concerned.

[slinc]

What did you take the Levaquin for? Was there actually an infection?
How are you know? Any more reactions?
See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluoroquinolone_Toxicity_Syndrome for more information.

[jgrobertson]

Thanks for your comment.  How long was eventually?  Were you able to see an effect of Neurontin?  My doctor did not mention it and may not be aware.  Was your doctor a neurologist?

[tednabbysmom]

I had the same thing happen to me.  My doctor prescribed Neurontin, which seemed to help.  But, I felt the tingling for a long time afterwards.  Eventually, it went away.