Thousands of lawsuits have been filed by people who were injured by Avelox and other antibiotics. Unfortunately, Avelox is linked to severe heart problems, nerve damage, aortic aneurysms, and other side effects.
What is Avelox?
Avelox® is the brand-name of moxifloxacin, a prescription medication in a class of broad-spectrum antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones. Avelox has been on the market in the U.S. since the 1990s.
Avelox and Aortic Aneurysms
Avelox can damage collagen and connective tissues, which is why it is associated with tendon ruptures and retinal detachment. Unfortunately, collagen is found all over the body — including the walls of major blood vessels, such as the aorta, and in the heart valves. In recent years, Avelox has been linked to heart problems, such as aortic aneurysms and heart valve damage.
Avelox and Heart Failure
In September 2019, a study found an increased risk of heart valve damage from Avelox. This side effect occurs when Avelox damages collagen in the flaps that open and close the valves. When the heart valves do not close properly, blood leaks backward when the heart pumps. Over time, valve problems force the heart to work too hard. This can lead to deadly heart failure.
Avelox and Aortic Aneurysms
In December 2018, the FDA warned that Avelox increases the risk of aortic aneurysms. This severe side effect occurs when collagen in the wall of the aorta weakens and causes the blood vessel to “balloon” outward until it suddenly rips open, causing massive internal bleeding and death.
Avelox and Nerve Damage
Avelox is linked to a type of nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy. In many cases, nerve damage causes permanent disability. The symptoms often include severe pain, burning, weakness, or numbness. These symptoms can start within days of taking the first dose of Avelox and persist for months or years.
Steven-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
Avelox is associated with rare but severe and sometimes fatal cases of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, an allergic drug reaction that causes the outer layer of skin to peel off. Patients should seek emergency medical attention at the first sign of a skin rash from Avelox.
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