Description
Indications
Levofloxacin belongs to the class of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones and is prescribed for the treatment of various infections, including pneumonia, skin, kidney, and prostate infections. This medication is also indicated for the prevention of anthrax in individuals exposed to anthrax germs in the air. Levofloxacin’s mechanism of action involves the eradication of bacteria responsible for causing infections.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally as instructed by your physician, typically once a day with or without food. Drink an ample amount of fluids while taking this medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
To ensure optimal efficacy, take this medication at least two hours before or after consuming other products that may impede its efficacy. Such products may include quinapril, sucralfate, vitamins/minerals (including iron, zinc), and products that contain magnesium, aluminum, or calcium.
The dosage and duration of treatment are determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on weight.
To achieve the best possible outcome, take this antibiotic at regularly spaced intervals. To assist in remembering, take this medication at the same time every day.
Complete the full prescribed amount of medication, even if symptoms subside after a few days. Discontinuing the medication too soon may result in a resurgence of the infection.
If your condition persists or deteriorates, please inform your physician.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- constipation
- heartburn
- vaginal itching and/or discharge
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe diarrhea
- rash
- hives
- itching
- peeling or blistering of the skin
- fever
- swelling of the eyes, face, mouth. lips, tongue, throat, hands, feet, ankles or lower legs
- hoarseness or throat tightness
- ongoing or worsening cough
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- extreme thirst or hunger
- fainting or loss of consciousness
- yellowing of the skin or eyes; pale skin; dark urine; or light colored stool
- seizures
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- sudden pain in the chest, stomach, or back
Caution
Before taking levofloxacin, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or to other quinolone antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin, or ofloxacin, or if you have any other allergies. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Before using this medication, you should inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly if you have diabetes, joint or tendon problems, kidney problems, mental or mood disorders, a certain muscle condition, nerve problems, seizure disorder, blood vessel problems, high blood pressure, or certain genetic conditions (Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome).
Levofloxacin may also cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm, known as QT prolongation. QT prolongation can cause serious, rarely fatal, symptoms such as fast or irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, and fainting that require immediate medical attention.
Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may be increased if you are using certain drugs, such as diuretics, or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using levofloxacin safely.
Levofloxacin may also rarely cause serious changes in blood sugar, especially if you have diabetes. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor.
Levofloxacin may also cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Using alcohol or marijuana may increase this effect. You should not drive, use machinery, or engage in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.
This medication may also make you more sensitive to the sun. You should limit your time in the sun and avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Inform your doctor immediately if you get sunburned or have skin blisters or redness.
Levofloxacin may cause live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine, to not work well. Inform your healthcare professional that you are using levofloxacin before having any immunizations or vaccinations.
Children may be at greater risk for joint/tendon problems while using this drug. Discuss the risks and benefits with the doctor.
Older adults may be at greater risk for tendon problems, QT prolongation, and a sudden tear/break in the main blood vessel (aorta).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Form and Strength
Levaquin is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Levaquin tablet:
- 500mg
-
levofloxacin tablet:
- 250mg
- 500mg
- 750mg
FAQ
What should be avoided when taking Levaquin?
Avoid dairy products such as milk and yogurt for at least 2 hours before and after taking the medicine. If you take vitamins or antacids, take them 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking Levaquin.
Why do I feel weird after taking Levaquin?
Levaquin may cause some people to become dizzy, lightheaded, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levofloxacin-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20064518#:~:text=Drinking%20extra%20water%20will%20help,spaced%20times%2C%20day%20and%20night
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levofloxacin-oral-route/precautions/drg-20064518#:~:text=Levofloxacin%20may%20cause%20some%20people,bothersome%2C%20check%20with%20your%20doctor
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697040.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14492-8235/levaquin-oral/levofloxacin-oral/details
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/levaquin
- https://www.drugs.com/levaquin.html