Levofloxacin

Dosage Forms Available

• Levofloxacin is available in various dosage forms including (tablets, oral solution), for intravenous infusion (injectable solution).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Levofloxacin is primarily meant for adults aged 18 and above.

Contraindications

• Levofloxacin should not be used by patients with a known allergy to the medicine or other quinolones. It should also be avoided in patients with a history of tendon disorders or myasthenia gravis.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Levofloxacin may interact with sucralfate and zinc-containing products (such as zinc gluconate, zinc ascorbate), anticoagulants (like warfarin, heparin), immunosuppressants (like cyclosporine, methotrexate) and QT prolonging medicines (like amiodarone and sotalol).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Levofloxacin may lead to symptoms like dizziness, nausea and seizures. In such cases, immediate medical attention should be sought.
• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped to avoid doubling up.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects associated with Levofloxacin usage are temporary and generally harmless. However, severe side effects should be reported to the doctor.

• Drinking adequate amounts of water can help manage diarrhoea and constipation.
• Taking medicine with food can help manage nausea.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Levofloxacin may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. It is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Use of Levofloxacin during pregnancy and breastfeeding should only be done if clearly needed and as advised by the doctor.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with renal impairment need dosage adjustments when taking Levofloxacin. It should be used with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis as it may exacerbate muscle weakness.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintaining good personal hygiene practices, like regular hand washing, can help prevent the spread and recurrence of bacterial infections.