Levofloxacin 500mg

Levofloxacin 500mg — Uses and Benefits

Levofloxacin 500mg is used to treat infections caused by bacteria in different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections like pneumonia and acute bronchitis
• Sinus infections
• Urinary tract infections including kidney infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Prostate infections
• Certain infections after exposure to specific bacteria, as advised by doctor

HOW IT WORKS

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

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat viral infections like common cold or flu
• It is not used for infections known to be caused by viruses
• It should not be used to self-treat minor infections without doctor's advice
• It is not a painkiller or fever medicine

How to Use Levofloxacin 500mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food, but try to be consistent
• Do not take with antacids, iron, or calcium 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 before finishing it

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take double dose to make up for a missed one
• If unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Levofloxacin 500mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Trouble sleeping

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Rash or itching
• Changes in taste
• Vaginal itching or discharge

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden tendon pain or swelling, especially in the ankle or heel
• Severe diarrhoea with blood or mucus
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet
• Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
• Sudden confusion, hallucinations, or seizures
• Signs of liver problems like yellowing of eyes or skin

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

Levofloxacin 500mg — 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 teenager, unless specifically advised by doctor
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless doctor advises otherwise

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have epilepsy or any seizure disorder
• Have kidney problems
• Have diabetes
• Have heart rhythm problems or are on heart medicines
• Have myasthenia gravis
• Are elderly, as risk of tendon problems may be higher

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Antacids, calcium, iron, or zinc supplements
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• NSAIDs like ibuprofen
• Medicines for diabetes
• Steroids like prednisolone
• Medicines affecting heart rhythm

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?

Dairy products can be taken but avoid taking them at the exact same time as the tablet since calcium can reduce absorption.

Is it safe to take this for a common cold?

• No, it is not effective against viral infections like the common cold and should only be used for bacterial infections as advised by your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.