Levaquin
Generic Name: Levofloxacin
What is Levaquin?
Levaquin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat many types of bacteria that can infect the lungs, sinuses, skin, prostate, urinary tract, and kidneys in adults.What is the most important information I should know about Levaquin?
Like all antibiotics, Levaquin works only against bacteria. It will not cure an infection caused by a virus, such as the common cold or flu.In rare cases, antibiotics can cause a serious allergic reaction. Stop taking Levaquin and call your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following warning signs: skin rash, tingling, hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapid heartbeat, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
A rare but serious side effect of Levaquin is tendon rupture or swelling of the tendon. Stop taking Levaquin and call your doctor immediately if you notice any tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation.
Liver damage has been reported in patients receiving Levaquin. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained symptoms such as nausea or vomiting, stomach pain, fever, weakness, abdominal pain or tenderness, itching, unusual or unexplained tiredness, loss of appetite, light-colored bowel movements, dark-colored urine, or yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.
Levaquin may cause a rare heart problem called QT prolongation. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice a change in your heartbeat.
Levaquin may cause damage to nerves in the arms, hands, legs, or feet. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following warning signs: pain, burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness.
Levaquin may affect your blood sugar so check your levels regularly if you have diabetes.
Levaquin may make your skin more sensitive to light. Use adequate sun protection while taking Levaquin.
Mild diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, a more serious form of diarrhea, although rare, may occur. Contact your doctor right away if you experience stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools. Do not treat the diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.
Who should not take Levaquin?
Do not use Levaquin if you have a history of allergic reactions to Levaquin, any of its ingredients, or any member of the quinolone class of antibiotics (such as Avelox and Cipro).What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Levaquin?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Levaquin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have tendon or joint problems, a history of seizures, a heart problem, are being treated for an abnormal heartbeat, a history of brain or nervous system disorders, diabetes, liver or kidney problems, diarrhea, or skin sensitivity to the sun. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Your doctor might prescribe different doses then those listed below based on the type and severity of your infection.
Chronic Bronchitis, Prostate, and Skin Infections
Adults: 500 milligrams (mg) daily. Your doctor will determine the duration of treatment based on your infection.
Pneumonia or Sinus Infections
Adults: 500 mg or 750 mg daily. Your doctor will determine the duration of treatment based on your infection.
Urinary Tract Infection
Adults: 250 mg daily for 3 days.
How should I take Levaquin?
Take Levaquin once a day for the full number of days it has been prescribed. Levaquin tablets should be swallowed and may be taken with or without food. Levaquin oral solution should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. Try to take Levaquin at the same time each day and drink a lot of fluids.Many antacids and multivitamins may interfere with the absorption of Levaquin. Therefore, you should take Levaquin either 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking these products.
It is important to take the full dosage schedule of Levaquin, even if you are feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Levaquin and similar antibiotics. If this happens, Levaquin and similar antibiotics may not work in the future.
What should I avoid while taking Levaquin?
Levaquin may make you dizzy or lightheaded. Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or engage in activities requiring mental alertness or coordination until you know how Levaquin affects you.Avoid sunlamps, tanning beds, and limit your time in the sun as Levaquin can make your skin more sensitive to light and cause sunburns. Wear sunscreen or protective clothing if outside in the sun.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Levaquin?
If Levaquin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Levaquin with the following: amiodarone, antacids, antidepressants, corticosteroids, didanosine, insulin or oral diabetes medicines, iron, multivitamins, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, procainamide, quinidine, sotalol, sucralfate, theophylline, or warfarin.What are the possible side effects of Levaquin?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: abdominal pain, change in heartbeat, chest pain, constipation, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, headache, itching, nausea, rash, shortness of breath, tendon rupture or swelling, upset stomach, vaginal irritation
Can I receive Levaquin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Levaquin during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Levaquin?
If you miss a dose of Levaquin, take the missed dose as soon as your remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take more than one dose in one day.How should I store Levaquin?
Store Levaquin tablets and oral solution at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
