Levofloxacin (Livofloxacin) Overview:
Description:
Levofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes crucial for DNA replication and repair. It is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Brand Names (5):
- Levaquin (USA)
- Tavanic (Europe)
- Livoflox (India)
- Quinsair (for cystic fibrosis, inhalation)
- Iquix (eye drops)
Available Forms & Strengths:
- Tablets:
- 250 mg
- 500 mg
- 750 mg
- Oral solution:
- 25 mg/mL
- Injectable (IV):
- 500 mg/100 mL
- 750 mg/100 mL
- Ophthalmic (Eye drops):
- 0.5% solution
- Inhalation (for cystic fibrosis):
- 240 mg
Uses (6):
- Respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Sinus infections
- Bacterial conjunctivitis (eye infections)
- Anthrax (inhalation, post-exposure prophylaxis)
Side Effects (6):
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Tendon pain or risk of rupture
- Insomnia
Dosage:
- Respiratory infections: 500-750 mg once daily for 7-14 days.
- UTIs: 250-500 mg once daily for 3-10 days.
- Skin infections: 500-750 mg once daily for 7-14 days.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: 1-2 drops in the eye every 2 hours while awake.
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or any fluoroquinolones.
- History of tendon disorders with quinolones.
- Children and adolescents (unless for specific indications like anthrax exposure).
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Warnings:
- Tendon Rupture: Higher risk in older adults and those on corticosteroids.
- QT Prolongation: Caution in patients with heart conditions.
- CNS Effects: Potential for seizures and nervous system disturbances.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Risk of irreversible nerve damage.
- Photosensitivity: Avoid excessive UV exposure during treatment.
Important information:-This post does not promote SELF MEDICATION in any way. This post is created only to spread general information and awareness about medicines, so in any situation, you must consult your doctor before taking medicine!Thank you
