Should I stop taking Levaquin?

November 12, 2020 8:59 AM

I was prescribed Levaquin for a a prostatitis flare up, and I've taken it over the last 3 days. Although my prostate issues have cleared up, I noticed some soreness in my calves. Does that mean I should stop taking it?

Other relevant information: I've taken Levaquin before (4 years ago) for a similar issue, with no ill effects. Is the existence of this soreness in itself a good reason to stop? I'm reluctant to do that, since I'm getting relief from the prostatitis. However, I'm reading lots of horror stories online about tendon damage which make me nervous.

Obviously YANMD, but I don't have access to great doctors unfortunately.

posted by matkline to Health & Fitness (3 answers total)

Stop taking it and contact your doctor immediately. It can cause severe tendon damage and tendon rupture.

That’s probably not happening, but don’t take a chance with it.
posted by SLC Mom at 9:26 AM on November 12, 2020 [3 favorites]

I used to take Levaquin for sinus infections. My doctor stopped prescribing it a few years ago, after stronger side effects warnings were issued. I would talk to your doctor immediately.
posted by answergrape at 9:28 AM on November 12, 2020 [1 favorite]

I took Levaquin during some major gyno issues and ended up with severe bursitis in my hips that took months to resolve. I would absolutely talk to your doctor.
posted by kimdog at 10:06 AM on November 12, 2020