While most patients tolerate the drug well, there are a variety of levofloxacin side effects that may occur with its use. The most common side effects are relatively mild and include gastrointestinal issues, trouble sleeping, and dizziness. More severe problems, though quite rare, might also occur and should be reported to a doctor right away; some examples include extreme sun sensitivity, persistent diarrhea, or tendon problems. Patients may also occasionally experience fainting, chest pains or heart palpitations, and yeast infections. In a small number of cases, dangerous liver or nerve damage, seizures, or significant changes in mental state can also be issues.
Levofloxacin side effects, when they occur, are typically quite mild and not cause for concern. Gastrointestinal problems such as nausea and vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, and indigestion can all occur. Some patients report feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and they may also have headaches. A fairly large number of patients complain of insomnia while on the drug.
In a fairly small number of cases, levofloxacin side effects can be more significant and should signal the need to seek a doctor's help. Some patients may become very sensitive to the sun and prone to sunburn; others may be apt to injure their tendons. Ongoing, persistent diarrhea, particularly if the stools are bloody or tarry, can be a cause for concern, as can the development of thrush or vaginal yeast infections. In certain cases, patients may notice pain in their chest, heart palpitations, or arrhythmia. Other symptoms that should be reported to a physician immediately include fainting, tremors, or symptoms of increased or decreased blood sugar.
Very rarely, levofloxacin side effects can include issues that can become very dangerous. The drug has the potential to cause liver damage, so patients should report any symptoms of this such as jaundice, dark urine, or pain in the upper right portion of the abdomen right away. It may also cause damage to the nervous system; signs that this is happening include numbness, tingling, or weakness, and may occur anywhere in the body.
In some cases, patients may have seizures. In others, they may notice changes in their mental state including hallucinations, anxiety and paranoia, or depression and suicidal thoughts. Other potentially dangerous symptoms to be aware of include signs of a new infection setting in, bruising or bleeding easily, or indications of an allergic reaction to the medication.
