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Does Levofloxacin Usage Have Any Side Effects Like Vision Problems?
Question: I finished taking my last dose of Levofloxacin(Levaquin) last week. But I've had a change in my vision for about the last 2 weeks, the same time I was taking the meds. My Dr. said to have my vision check, I did and they said nothing wrong with the eyes. I talked to my Dr. and had mentioned more tests MRI... I'm convinced its a side effect from the meds. as it says could be one. If it is the medication and I haven't taken it in 9days could it still be a side effect?
Brief Answer:
Can cause. Evaluation of other causes is required
Detailed Answer:
Dear Friend.
Hi , I am Dr Anshul Varshney , I have read your query in detail , I understand your concern.
Levofloxacin can very rarely cause vision problems. There are reports of Retinal detachment caused by Levofloxacin.
But trust me , it's very rare.
If you see side effects of Levofloxacin or any drug , you will find a long list. But it is not that everyone gets the all side effects.
Commonly noticed complains regarding eye toxicity of Levofloxacin are :
1. Flashes of Light Floaters or “Hairs” Visible to the Temporal Side of the Central Vision
2. Dramatic Increases in the NUmber of Floaters
3. Feeling of Heaviness in the Eye
4. Dense Shadow Progressing from Peripheral to Central Vision.
Now being specific to your question , i must say that yes , even when you stopped levofloxacin , you can have these side effects , as it takes time to clear the drug from the body.
I would advice you to :
1. Get Retinal Examination again by the same opthalmologist , as he/she can compare your previous fndings with the new one.
2. MRI is indicated if no pathology can be demonstrated on clinical examination.
We need to rule out the other causes of change in vision before we can attribute it to Levofloxacin.
This is my personal opinion based on details available here. If you still have any query you may please ask me.
Stay Healthy.
Dr Anshul Varshney , MD
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you for your reply. The eye Dr. I saw , I thought did a complete check-up? I will call him on Monday. I see that some of the common complains above. I did have the feeling of heaviness in my eyes, which does seem to be getting better. I do notice that when I close one eye or the other my vision is better or cup my hands around the outside of my eyes I can watch T.V. Which is I should tell you is the problem I'm having, is watching T.V. and the movie I lent to last week, but also driving! I should have told you that I don't have the problem all he time. I am still convinced it's from the medication. My Dr. also had me taking Furosemide to reduce swelling in my legs, and feet, which also lists blurred vision is a side effect. He thought maybe heart, but I told him it was because I've been sleeping in a chair for three weeks. Couldn't lie down because of my Pneumonia.
Brief Answer:
get eye check up
Detailed Answer:
Dear friend
As I told you. Every drug has its side effects.
It would be better if you just get an eye check up.
An eye check up would actually clear the picture.
Just get an eye checkup and review with me again.
In that scenario I would be able to help you in a better way.
I hope you understand that I can here just imagine things.
I'll be waiting for your reply to help you my best.
Stay Healthy.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
I know you won't say anything about my Doctor one way or another? I not asking about that, the medications both seemed to work and to improve my pneumonia and swelling. And considering the other side effects listed I feel lucky, compared to others I've read about online. I just want another opinion and info before I see him next week for more expensive tests,(I have no health coverage at this time) It's just that before I took those meds, no vision problems, now can't drive, go to the movies and can't watch T.V. comfortably? I just like to know is it is going to go away with time? Thank You
Sorry, sent that last one before I read your last reply. Thank you I will contact the eye doctor on Monday.
Brief Answer:
Good Luck.
Detailed Answer:
Dear Friend.
I understand that it's difficult to get the investigations with out a health coverage. But you have to at any cost.
I would wait to know the opinion of your ophthalmologist.
I wish , you get well very soon.
Stay Healthy.
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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