HomeAnswersInternal MedicinelevofloxacinCan Levofloxacin cause heart problems or tendon rupture?

I took Levofloxacin for a sinus infection, and my legs became sore. Should I ask for another antibiotic?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At March 21, 2021
Reviewed AtDecember 15, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have been prescribed Levaquin 500 mg (Levofloxacin) for sinus infection, and I am scared to have a heart problem or tendon rupture. I took Levaquin 750 mg one time, and my legs became sore. Should I ask for another antibiotic?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Do not take Levofloxacin (Levaquin). The benefit of Levaquin is that it covers atypical organisms. The same benefit can also be obtained from macrolide antibiotics like Azithromycin (Azithrocin). If you get a heart problem with Levaquin, I would suggest getting an ECG (electrocardiogram) to rule out any QT prolongation. Amoxicillin with Clavulanic acid (Augmentin) or 2nd generation Cephalosporins will be a good option for sinus infection.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I am allergic to Penicillins, and I do not have any heart problems. I have taken Levaquin before, and I am just nervous about taking it now because of harmful side effects. Are there any other antibiotics I could take?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

True, it is sometimes difficult to tolerate Quinolones. Your concern is valid if you have noticed leg sore in the past after taking Levaquin (Levofloxacin), and I will not suggest it. If you are allergic to Penicillins, do not take Amoxycillin (Amoxil); go for 2nd generation Cephalosporins. They do have a close structure to Penicillins. A Doxycycline (Doryx) is a good option just to avoid direct sun exposure.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Rahul Ramji Kackar
Dr. Rahul Ramji Kackar

Endocrinology

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