Levofloxacin 250mg

Levofloxacin 250mg — Uses and Benefits

Levofloxacin 250mg is prescribed to treat various bacterial infections in the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis
• Urinary tract infections including kidney infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Sinus infections (sinusitis)
• Certain infections of the prostate

HOW IT WORKS

• It stops bacteria from copying their genetic material
• This prevents the bacteria from growing and multiplying
• The body's immune system then clears the remaining infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Viral infections such as common cold, flu, or COVID-19
• Fungal infections
• As a general painkiller or fever reducer
• Preventive use without a doctor's advice

This medicine only works against bacterial infections and should be used exactly as directed to avoid resistance developing.

How to Use Levofloxacin 250mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food
• 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 taking this medicine
• Complete the full course even if you feel better, unless your doctor advises otherwise

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
• Do not take double doses 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 after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink

Levofloxacin 250mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Trouble sleeping

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Rash or itching
• Loss of appetite
• Vaginal itching or discharge

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden tendon pain or swelling, especially in the ankle or Achilles tendon
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe diarrhoea with blood or mucus
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet
• Sudden mood changes, confusion, hallucinations, or seizures
• Irregular heartbeat or fainting
• Yellowing of skin or eyes

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

Levofloxacin 250mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics
• Have a history of tendon problems linked to fluoroquinolones
• Are a child or growing adolescent, unless specifically advised by a doctor
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless your doctor says it is necessary

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have epilepsy or a history of seizures
• Have kidney problems
• Have diabetes, especially if on medicines that lower blood sugar
• Have a heart rhythm problem or family history of QT prolongation
• Have myasthenia gravis
• Are elderly, as risk of tendon damage may be higher

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Antacids, calcium, iron, or zinc supplements
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Medicines for diabetes
• Other medicines that affect heart rhythm
• Corticosteroids (increase tendon rupture risk)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

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

Can I take this with milk or dairy products?

It is best to avoid taking it at the same time as dairy products or calcium-fortified foods; leave a gap of a few hours.

How long does it take to work?

• Most people start feeling better within a few days, but always complete the full course as prescribed.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.