Levaquin settlements are monetary awards for patients who have been seriously injured (or families of those who have lost a loved one) due to the severe side effects associated with Levaquin. Levaquin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 1996. Generically known as levofoxacin, Levaquin is produced by Ortho McNeil (a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson) and is indicated for the treatment of urinary tract infections, pneumonia, skin and sinus infections, and anthrax inhalation.
Despite being an effective antibiotic, Levaquin has been reported to cause a range of serious side effects that, in the worst cases, can result in death. Those who believe they have been injured as a result of taking Levaquin will have a strong products liability claim against Ortho McNeil, and they may be entitled to a Levaquin settlement to compensate for medical bills, permanent disabilities, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
Injuries Forcing Ortho McNeil to Pay Hefty Levaquin Settlements
On July 7, 2008, the FDA mandated that Ortho McNeil include Black Box warning labels on all Levaquin packaging due to reports that Levaquin was causing some patients (particularly children and the elderly) to develop the following side effects:
- Acute pancreatitis
- Hypoglycemia
- Irregular heartbeat
- Kidney damage
- Permanent double-vision or loss of vision
- Seizures
- Severe allergic reaction
- Severe damage to the central nervous system
- Spontaneous tendon rupture
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrosis syndrome (TENS) – both of which are severe skin conditions that can be fatal if not treated early on.
Black Box warnings are the most serious level of warning issued by the FDA, and they are the final alert issued prior to a full recall.
Ortho McNeil rolled out Levaquin’s new packaging with Black Box warnings in September 2008; however, there are reports that old packaging without these strict warnings, was still in circulation as late as July 2009.
Securing a Levaquin Settlement
Injured Levaquin patients are welcome to learn more about their legal rights and entitlements by attending a complimentary, no obligations initial consultation with a skilled products liability attorney. During this meeting, prospective plaintiffs can receive a professional, thorough evaluation of their case, followed up with expert advice regarding the best manner in which to proceed in order to secure the maximum possible Levaquin settlement.
If you or a loved one have used Levaquin and suffered from any side effect including pancreatitis, hypoglycemia, seizures, SJS, or TEN, you should contact us immediately for a free and confidential case review. You may be entitled to compensation and we can help.
