“Levaquin medication?”
I have been on 500 mg of Levaquin. After 7 days I have loose bowels, sometimes to the extent, I cannot get to the bathroom. My flatulence [GAS] smells like sulfur. I am on chemo treatments into my 17 hours of treatment. I have irritable bowel syndrome and feel that the treatments are going good, but I do not feel well at times. My oncologist has put me on zovarax potassium. I read that Levaquin, can cause liver problems. How do I know how my condition is?
Male | 74 years old
Complaint duration: 11/14/20
Medications: SINGULAR LIPITOR VALSARTON
Conditions: follicular NHL
5 Answers
Gastroenterologist|GastroenterologyGastroenteorlogist
Levaquin is an antibiotic medication that belongs to the class of fluoroquinolones. It is commonly prescribed to treat various bacterial infections. While I can provide some information, it's important to note that iIt is crucial to consult with your oncologist or healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding your specific medical condition and medication regimen.
Levaquin, like other antibiotics, can potentially cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, loose stools, and changes in bowel habits. The sulfur-like smell in gas is also a reported side effect of Levaquin. If you are experiencing severe or persistent diarrhea or any other concerning symptoms, it is important to inform your healthcare provider so they can assess your situation and determine the appropriate course of action.
Regarding liver problems associated with Levaquin, while it is possible for antibiotics to cause liver-related side effects, such as hepatotoxicity, it is considered to be rare. However, individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking other medications that may interact with Levaquin could have an increased risk. Your healthcare provider will consider your medical history, ongoing chemotherapy treatments, and other factors when assessing the potential risks and benefits of using Levaquin in your case.
Given your specific medical condition and ongoing chemotherapy treatments, it's important to maintain open communication with your oncologist and healthcare team. They are best equipped to monitor and evaluate your overall condition, manage any potential side effects, and adjust your treatment plan as necessary. They can provide guidance specific to your situation and address any concerns or questions you may have.
It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions, report any new symptoms or changes in your condition, and seek their guidance for an accurate assessment of your health.
Levaquin, like other antibiotics, can potentially cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, loose stools, and changes in bowel habits. The sulfur-like smell in gas is also a reported side effect of Levaquin. If you are experiencing severe or persistent diarrhea or any other concerning symptoms, it is important to inform your healthcare provider so they can assess your situation and determine the appropriate course of action.
Regarding liver problems associated with Levaquin, while it is possible for antibiotics to cause liver-related side effects, such as hepatotoxicity, it is considered to be rare. However, individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking other medications that may interact with Levaquin could have an increased risk. Your healthcare provider will consider your medical history, ongoing chemotherapy treatments, and other factors when assessing the potential risks and benefits of using Levaquin in your case.
Given your specific medical condition and ongoing chemotherapy treatments, it's important to maintain open communication with your oncologist and healthcare team. They are best equipped to monitor and evaluate your overall condition, manage any potential side effects, and adjust your treatment plan as necessary. They can provide guidance specific to your situation and address any concerns or questions you may have.
It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions, report any new symptoms or changes in your condition, and seek their guidance for an accurate assessment of your health.
Please contact your oncologist ASAP, and discuss this.
Any antibiotic can cause diarrhea and alter the gut flora. This should stop once you stop the antibiotic. Almost any antibiotic can also bump your liver tests. For any such concerns, just check some basic labs to look at your liver enzymes.
You may benefit from stool tests to check for an infectious condition known as clostridium difficile colitis. Please let your oncologist know about your symptoms right away. Chemotherapy can also cause these symptoms however, use of antibiotics is a strong indicator of C Difficile colitis especially when immunosuppressed.
Virtually all oral antibiotics can cause diarrhea. Most clear when the antibiotic is finished. A small percentage have a bad infection initiated by the antibiotic called C. difficile. Your doctor should check for this infection.
