Aortic aneurysms have been linked to fluoroquinolone antibiotics like Floxin in two recent studies. Aneurysms that rupture can cause severe internal bleeding or death.
Need a Texas Floxin Lawyer? Collen A. Clark is a true advocate for his clients and is passionate about helping Texans that have been injured or wronged. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with an aneurysm, you should contact our lawyers immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit.
What is the problem?
Floxin (ofloxacin) is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections in the lungs, urinary tract, and more.
Like all fluoroquinolones, Floxin has a “Black Box” warning about tendon ruptures and tendinitis. It has also been linked to other side effects involving collagen and connective tissue, such as retinal detachment and aortic aneurysms.
What is an Aortic Aneurysm?
The aorta is a major artery that originates in the left ventricle of the heart and extends downward into the abdomen. It carries oxygen-rich blood to vital organs and the body. An aneurysm occurs when a weak spot in the wall of the aorta allows it to bulge outward.
Aneurysms do not often cause symptoms until complications occur. The inner wall of the aorta can rip open and allow blood to leak inside the aorta itself — this is called dissection. This can lead to aortic rupture, which can cause severe internal bleeding or death.
Studies Link Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics and Aortic Aneurysm
- JAMA Internal Medicine (October 2015): Current users of fluoruqinolone antibiotics were 2.4-times more likely to develop aortic aneurysms, and past users were 50% more likely.
- British Medical Journal (November 2015): Fluoroquinolones are associated with a 3.1-fold increased risk of aortic aneurysms based on data from 650,000 adults who used the medications and 18,500 who had an aneurysm.
Warning Signs of an Aortic Aneurysm
Aneurysms do not usually cause symptoms in their early stages and most are found during tests for other reasons. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, connective tissue disorders, and smoking are all risk-factors for aortic aneurysms.
When early warning signs do appear, they may include:
- Throbbing or deep pain on the back, side, or abdomen
- Pain in the buttocks, groin, or legs
- Sharp, sudden pain in the chest or back
- Shortness of breath
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
Complications of an Aortic Aneurysm
The most serious complications of an aortic aneurysm occur when the wall of the aorta rips open and causes internal bleeding. In some cases, the inner wall of the aorta ruptures and causes aortic dissection.
An aortic aneurysm that ruptures causes severe internal bleeding. Patients can rapidly go into shock, which cuts off blood-flow to vital organs and causes them to shut down. Without emergency surgery to repair the aorta, it can rapidly cause death.
Symptoms of a ruptured aortic aneurysm may include:
- Sudden, intense, and persistent abdominal or back pain
- Pain that radiates to back or legs
- Sweatiness
- Cold and clammy skin
- Dizziness and unconsciousness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low blood pressure
- Fast but weak heartbeat
Need a Floxin Lawyer in Texas?
Collen A. Clark is a true advocate for his clients and is passionate about helping Texans that have been injured or wronged.
Collen’s amazing success in the courtroom and well known dedication to his clients has earned him the recognition of his peers as one of The Top Trial Lawyers in Texas.”
The Clark Firm has assembled a team of trial lawyers with more than 100 years experience, participation in over 600 jury trials and $260 million in verdicts and/or settlements. Please use the form below to contact our Texas Floxin lawyers for a free lawsuit review.