Levaquin
Levaquin (Levofloxacin) is an antibiotic that stops multiplication of bacteria.
Drug Name
Levaquin (Levofloxacin)Drug Uses
Levaquin is used to treat infections of the sinuses, skin, lungs, ears, airways, bones, and joints, caused by susceptible bacteria. Levaquin also is frequently used to treat urinary infections, including those resistant to other antibiotics, as well as prostatitis. Levaquin is effective in treating infectious diarrheas, caused by E. coli, campylobacter jejuni, and shigella bacteria. Levaquin also can be used to treat various obstetric infections, including mastitis.How Taken
Levaquin usually is given once daily. It is important to take it at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after any antacid, or mineral supplement with iron, calcium, zinc, or magnesium since these minerals bind Levaquin and prevent its absorption.Drug Class and Mechanism
Many common infections in humans are caused by single cell organisms, called bacteria. Bacteria can grow and multiply, infecting different parts of the body. Medicines that control and eradicate these bacteria are called antibiotics. Levaquin is an antibiotic that stops multiplication of bacteria by preventing the reproduction and repair of their genetic material (DNA). It is in a class of antibiotics, called fluoroquinolones, a class that includes ciprofloxacin (Cipro), norfloxacin (Noroxin), ofloxacin (Floxin), trovafloxacin (Trovan), and lomefloxacin (Maxaquin). Levaquin was approved by the FDA in 1996.Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.Storage
Levaquin is usually handled and stored by a health care provider. If you are using Levaquin at home, store Levaquin as directed by your pharmacist or health care provider. Keep Levaquin out of the reach of children and away from pets.Warnings/Precautions
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Levaquin may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, and a severe sunburn may result. If sun exposure is unavoidable, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Call your doctor if you experience severe burning, redness, itching, rash, or swelling after exposure to the sun. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Levaquin may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities. Levaquin is not recommended for use in pregnant women since Levaquin causes joint and bone deformities in juvenile animals of several species. Levaquin is not recommended for use in lactating women since Levaquin causes joint and bone deformities in juvenile animals of several species. In fact, Levaquin is not recommended in persons under the age of 18 years.Possible Side Effects
The most frequently reported side effects are nausea or vomiting (1 out of every 12 persons), diarrhea (1 out 20), headache (1 out 20), and constipation (1 out of 30). Less common side effects include difficulty sleeping, dizziness, abdominal pain, rash, abdominal gas, and itching.More Information
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Levaquin and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing;
- closing of the throat;
- swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- seizures; confusion or hallucinations;
- irregular heartbeats, chest pain, or fainting;
- liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue);
- or muscle or joint pain.
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation;
- headache or lightheadedness;
- drowsiness;
- insomnia;
- ringing in the ears;
- or increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight.