Levaquin (Levofloxacin)
Levaquin (Levofloxacin)
Levaquin (Levofloxacin) is a prescription antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory, urinary tract, skin, and sinus infections. As a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, it works by stopping the growth of harmful bacteria in the body. Levaquin is available in tablet and oral solution forms, offering patients flexibility in treatment.
Why Choose Levaquin (Levofloxacin)?
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics are effective against many bacterial infections.
- Treats respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis.
- Helps manage urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney infections.
- Used for skin, sinus, and prostate infections.
- Available in convenient oral forms for easier dosing.
How to Use Levaquin (Levofloxacin)?
- Take exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Swallow tablets with a full glass of water; avoid taking with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices.
- Try to take the dose at the same time each day for best results.
- Do not skip doses or stop early, even if symptoms improve.
- Inform your doctor about other medications or supplements you’re taking.
Important Safety Information about Levaquin
- Do not use if you have a history of allergic reactions to fluoroquinolones.
- May increase the risk of tendon rupture, particularly in older adults.
- Can cause serious effects on the nervous system, mood, or blood sugar levels.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure; Levaquin may increase sensitivity to sunlight.
- Not recommended for children unless specifically prescribed.
Fact Table
| Facts | Details |
| Generic Name | Levofloxacin |
| Brand Name(s) | Levaquin |
| Drug Class | Fluoroquinolone antibiotic |
| Dosage Forms | Tablets (250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg); Oral solution (25 mg/mL); Injection (IV) |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, repair, and transcription, leading to bacterial cell death. |
| Indications (Uses) | – Community-acquired pneumonia – Acute bacterial sinusitis – Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis – Skin and skin structure infections – Urinary tract infections (UTI), including pyelonephritis – Chronic bacterial prostatitis – Inhalational anthrax (post-exposure) – Plague (Yersinia pestis) |
| Usual Adult Dosage | – 250 mg to 750 mg once daily depending on infection type and severity – Duration: 3-14 days (longer for chronic infections) |
| Administration | – May be taken with or without food – Take with a full glass of water – Avoid taking with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone (can reduce absorption) – Separate from antacids, iron, or zinc by at least 2 hours before or after |
| Contraindications | – History of hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones – Patients with tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use |
| Warnings & Precautions | – Risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture (higher in elderly, corticosteroid use, transplant patients) – May cause peripheral neuropathy – Risk of CNS effects (seizures, tremors, confusion, hallucinations) – QT prolongation risk, use caution in patients with cardiac conditions – Avoid unnecessary use due to antimicrobial resistance |
| Common Side Effects | – Nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, constipation, insomnia |
| Drug Interactions | – Antacids, sucralfate, iron, and zinc reduce absorption – May enhance effects of warfarin (bleeding risk) – Risk of arrhythmia when combined with drugs that prolong QT interval |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (20–25°C / 68–77°F), away from moisture and heat. Keep in a tightly closed container. |
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Levaquin (Levofloxacin) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.
- Nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset.
- Headache or dizziness.
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia).
- Constipation.
- Mild skin rash or itching.
If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.
How Can You Buy Levaquin (Levofloxacin)?
You can order Levaquin (Levofloxacin) using these methods on our website:
- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
Visit our How to order page.
