Levofloxacin

Levofloxacin helps treat bacterial infections, sinus, kidney, bladder, prostate conditions, skin infections, etc. However, doctors usually prescribe the medicine in case of urinary tract infection or chronic bronchitis when other treatment options fail. 

How Does Levofloxacin Work?

Levofloxacin operates by interfering with essential enzymes in bacteria, specifically DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. These enzymes play a critical role in DNA replication and repair in bacteria. By blocking their action, Levofloxacin prevents bacteria from reproducing and ultimately leads to their demise.

What are the uses of Levofloxacin?

Levofloxacin is used to treat bacterial infections. The medicine belongs to a drug class known as quinolone antibiotics. It stops bacterial growth in the body. However, it does not work for viral infections such as flu, cold, etc. The medicine is also used to treat anthrax infection after inhalation exposure.

In addition to treating these conditions, Levofloxacin also treats and prevents semantic and pneumonic plague. However, you must know that the medicine cannot be bought over the counter. You will need a doctor’s prescription to buy this medicine. It is available in solution and tablet dosage forms. 

How and when to use Levofloxacin?

The doctor will tell you how to take the medicine when prescribing it. If you have any problem understanding the dosage, talk to your nearest pharmacy store, and they will help you with the dosage.

You can take medicine with or without food - as directed by the physician. Also, drink plenty of water while taking the medication. Using it 2 hours before or after your meal is usually advised. The dosage and treatment will depend on your condition. For example, a patient with a minor infection might have to take less dosage for a shorter period, whereas a patient with a severe infection will have to take more dosage for a longer period.

What are the side effects of Levofloxacin?

Levofloxacin causes severe side effects such as nerve damage, tendon problems, serious mood and behaviour changes, low blood sugar level (hypoglycaemia), etc. Some of the common side effects are -

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Trouble sleeping
• Lightheadedness

If you have any such side effects, immediately inform your healthcare provider. They might alter the dosage or prescribe you alternative medicines. Also, if you experience tingling, irritation, burning pain, numbness, paranoia, concentration problems, suicidal thoughts, or difficulty in movement - tell your doctor immediately. 

Also, in rare cases, Levofloxacin causes damage to the aorta, which can lead to bleeding or other severe conditions. If you experience pain in your back, stomach, or chest after taking the medicine, get emergency medical help.

What precautions should be taken?

Levofloxacin contains certain active ingredients that you can be allergic to. If you are allergic to certain antibiotics from the quinolone class, such as ofloxacin, moxifloxacin, or ciprofloxacin, inform your doctor. Also, at the time of consultation, tell them if you have any other condition besides the ongoing problem. This is because Levofloxacin is not suitable for people with the following conditions -

• Brain tumour
• Kidney diseases
• Diabetes
• Low levels of potassium in your blood
• Epilepsy
• Seizures
• Long QT syndrome
• Heart conditions
• Nerve disorders
• Marfan syndrome

Do not take this medicine or give this medicine to a child without consulting the doctor. Also, it is important to tell the doctor if you are pregnant. You must take the following precautions if you are taking Levofloxacin -

• This drug makes you dizzy or lightheaded. So do not get involved in sports or drive while on medication.
• Limit your sun exposure. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when you are outdoors.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using the medicine.

What if I missed the dose of Levofloxacin?

If you miss a dosage of Levofloxacin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the time for your next dosage is near, skip the missed dosage and continue with the usual dose. Avoid taking a double dose to make up for the missed dosage.

What if I overdose on Levofloxacin?

Usually, there is no overdose of Levofloxacin as you have to take the medicine as per the dosage recommended by the doctor. Unfortunately, if there is an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately. 

What are the storage conditions for Levofloxacin?

Avoid keeping the medicine in direct sunlight and heat. Levofloxacin can be stored in the refrigerator between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Also, it is better to keep your medicine at room temperature. 

Caution with other medicine

Antibodies can cause diarrhoea, which is another form of infection. This might lead to watery or bloody stool. Before taking an anti-diarrhoea medicine, call your doctor. Several medicines might reduce the effectiveness of Levofloxacin. It is advisable to take Levofloxacin 2 hours before or after you take these medicines -

• Antacids (contains magnesium or aluminium)
• Didanosine powder or tablets
• Vitamin or mineral supplements containing zinc, aluminium, iron, and magnesium. 

How quickly does Levofloxacin show results?

Levofloxacin usually takes up to three days before the symptoms begin to resolve. However, the peak levels are reached within one to two hours. 

Comparison of a Levofloxacin medicine with an Amoxicillin