Levofloxacin

Generic name: levofloxacin (oral) [ LEE-voe-FLOX-a-sin ]
Brand name: Levaquin

Drug class: Antibiotics (Fluoroquinolones)

Dosage form: Tablet, Oral solution, Injection

Route of administration: Oral, Intravenous (IV)

Dose: Tablet: 250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg; Oral solution: 25 mg/mL; Injection: 250 mg/50 mL, 500 mg/100 mL, 750 mg/150 mL.

Mechanism of action: Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, essential enzymes for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination, leading to bacterial cell death.

Drug usage cases: Levofloxacin is used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and prostatitis.

Drug contra indications: Levofloxacin should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other quinolones. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of tendon disorders related to quinolone use.

Side effects: Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. Serious side effects may include:

• Tendonitis and tendon rupture: Increased risk, especially in older adults and those taking corticosteroids.
• QT prolongation: Risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
• Peripheral neuropathy: Risk of nerve damage causing pain, burning, or tingling.
• CNS effects: Potential for seizures, confusion, and psychosis.

Warnings: Levofloxacin can cause serious tendon, muscle, joint, and nerve problems. It can also lead to QT prolongation and severe hypersensitivity reactions. Patients should be advised to report any tendon pain or swelling and to avoid activities that may stress tendons.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: The safety of levofloxacin during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Levofloxacin is excreted in human milk, so caution should be exercised when administered to breastfeeding mothers.