Levofloxacin-induced rhabdomyolysis: a case report

BACKGROUND: Rhabdomyolysis secondary to quinolones is not frequent. There are scarce reports in the literature associating rhabdomyolysis to levofloxacin. We describe a case of levofloxacin-induced rhabdomyolysis. CASE PRESENTATION: A 52-year-old African-American man presented with muscle tightness after taking three doses of levofloxacin. He had elevated creatine kinase without acute kidney injury. His symptoms resolved after discontinuation of levofloxacin and supportive care. CONCLUSIONS: It is fascinating that our patient has a prior history of rhabdomyolysis, likely from levofloxacin. Our case highlights the need to be mindful of this potentially life-threatening complication of levofloxacin.