4 ms·

I was recently prescribed levofloxacin. Within 12 hours, I started having intermittent pins and needles sensations. Rather than soldier through it, I thankfully

I was recently prescribed levofloxacin. Within 12 hours, I started having intermittent pins and needles sensations. Rather than soldier through it, I thankfully looked up the symptoms and discovered what terrible damage fluoroquinolones can do. I got off of those antibiotics immediately, and I'm paying close attention for any delayed symptoms. Thankfully the peripheral neuropathy has gone. When prescribed, I was given no warnings. Not even a pamphlet with tiny print. When I returned to the pharmacists with my complaints and research, they were literally Googling it--they had no idea about the FDA warnings.

gumby 8y ago
> When prescribed, I was given no warnings. Not even a pamphlet with tiny print. That's malpractice by your pharmacist. In my state they are required to give you the "label" (that handout) and discuss the drug with you if you haven't been prescribed it before. > When I returned to the pharmacists with my complaints and research, they were literally Googling it--they had no idea about the FDA warnings. This is even more shocking. If you're not exaggerating, you really should call the pharmaceutical licensing agency and the attorney general's office (who will send to the right agency for your state). Your pharmacy has unqualified people who are putting lives at risk. If they don't even know these basics who knows what other errors they are making? I am not kidding about calling the authorities. I don't like the "self-righteous complainers" but this is a genuine public health risk. FWIW I studied for a pharmaceutical license (but thankfully didn't have to take it as it became obvious to all of us that we shouldn't cut that corner and instead should hire an in-house pharmacist experienced with drug development)
- tvanantwerp 8y ago
  Unfortunately I was vacationing in Hong Kong when all of this happened, and I suspect the laws there are much looser or non-existent.

gumby 8y ago

> When prescribed, I was given no warnings. Not even a pamphlet with tiny print. That's malpractice by your pharmacist. In my state they are required to give you the "label" (that handout) and discuss the drug with you if you haven't been prescribed it before. > When I returned to the pharmacists with my complaints and research, they were literally Googling it--they had no idea about the FDA warnings. This is even more shocking. If you're not exaggerating, you really should call the pharmaceutical licensing agency and the attorney general's office (who will send to the right agency for your state). Your pharmacy has unqualified people who are putting lives at risk. If they don't even know these basics who knows what other errors they are making? I am not kidding about calling the authorities. I don't like the "self-righteous complainers" but this is a genuine public health risk. FWIW I studied for a pharmaceutical license (but thankfully didn't have to take it as it became obvious to all of us that we shouldn't cut that corner and instead should hire an in-house pharmacist experienced with drug development)

tvanantwerp 8y ago
Unfortunately I was vacationing in Hong Kong when all of this happened, and I suspect the laws there are much looser or non-existent.