Levofloxacin

Levofloxacin — Uses and Benefits

Levofloxacin is used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria in various parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis
• Sinus infections
• Urinary tract infections, including kidney infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Prostate infections
• Certain eye infections (as eye drops)

HOW IT WORKS

• It kills bacteria by blocking enzymes (DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV) that bacteria need to copy their genetic material
• This stops the bacteria from multiplying and eventually kills them
• It works against a broad range of bacteria, including some resistant to other antibiotics

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Viral infections such as common cold, flu, or most sore throats
• Fungal infections
• As a general painkiller or fever medicine
• Preventing infections without a doctor's specific advice

Use only for the condition and duration prescribed by your doctor, and complete the full course even if you feel better early, to prevent bacterial resistance.

How to Use Levofloxacin

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food, but try to be consistent
• Avoid taking with antacids, calcium, iron, or zinc supplements at the same time; leave a gap of a few hours
• Drink plenty of fluids while on this medicine
• Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve
• If using eye drops, wash hands before use and avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use eye drops after the labelled discard period once opened
• Do not use expired medicine

Levofloxacin — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Skin rash or itching
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Changes in taste

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden tendon pain, swelling, or rupture (especially in the ankle or heel)
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet (signs of nerve damage)
• Severe diarrhoea with blood or mucus
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of face/throat, breathing difficulty, or severe rash
• Irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or fainting
• Sudden mood changes, confusion, hallucinations, or seizures
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe muscle weakness (worsening of myasthenia gravis)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Levofloxacin — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics
• Have a history of tendon problems linked to fluoroquinolone use
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor
• Are below 18 years of age, unless specifically prescribed

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have epilepsy or a history of seizures
• Have kidney problems
• Have diabetes, especially if on insulin or other blood sugar medicines
• Have a heart rhythm problem or are on heart medicines
• Have myasthenia gravis
• Are elderly, as risk of tendon injury is higher
• Have a family history or personal history of aneurysm or aortic problems

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Antacids, calcium, iron, or zinc supplements
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Oral diabetes medicines or insulin
• NSAIDs (pain relievers) may increase risk of seizures
• Other medicines affecting heart rhythm
• Corticosteroids (increase risk of tendon rupture)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine for a common cold?

No, this medicine works only against bacteria and will not help with viral infections like cold or flu.

Is it safe to drive after taking this medicine?

It may cause dizziness in some people, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

• No, you should complete the full course as prescribed to fully clear the infection and prevent resistance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.