When Prescribed Incorrectly, Lifesaving Antibiotics Can Be Dangerous, Carry Real Risks

Rachel Brummert, B.S., M.S., President of Patient Safety Impact

In 2006, my doctor prescribed me Levaquin—a fluoroquinolone antibiotic—for a suspected sinus infection. A few weeks later, I ruptured my Achilles tendon while walking across a parking lot to my car.

Since that time, I have suffered 24 tendon ruptures, each of which required extensive reconstructive surgeries. In addition, I suffer from central and autonomic nervous system damage. This damage is permanent. I also have short-term and long-term memory loss, loss of balance, peripheral neuropathy in my extremities, chronic pain, chronic low blood pressure, and other symptoms that make daily life challenging.

I never knew that an antibiotic, which I thought was supposed to help me feel better, could cause an otherwise healthy person like myself to become disabled at 36 years old.

It is important that both patients and healthcare providers are aware of both the risks and benefits of fluoroquinolones and make an informed decision about their use.  Read more