Levaquin

Common Name: levofloxacin

How does Levaquin work?

Levofloxacin belongs to the class of medications called quinolones. It is an antibiotic used for the treatment of certain bacterial infections. It is most commonly used to treat infections of the bladder, kidney, prostate, sinus, skin, and lung. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Levaquin?

The usual recommended adult dose of levofloxacin ranges from 250 mg to 500 mg daily. In some cases, doses of 500 mg twice a day may be used. The exact dose depends on the condition being treated and other medical conditions present. This medication may be taken with or without food. Levofloxacin should be taken at least two hours before or two hours after antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum; sucralfate; or vitamin and mineral tablets containing calcium, iron, or zinc. Make sure to drink plenty of fluid each day while taking levofloxacin. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Keep taking this medication until the prescription is complete even if you feel better. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Levaquin come in?

Levaquin® is available as an injection or as tablets. Injection: 5 mg/mL: Each mL of sterile, non-pyrogenic premixed, ready-to-use solution contains levofloxacin 5 mg in 5% Dextrose (D5W). pH: 3.8 to 5.8. Solutions of hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may have been added to adjust the pH. This medication does not contain preservatives. 25 mg/mL: Each mL of sterile, clear-yellow to greenish-yellow solution contains levofloxacin 25 mg in water for injection. pH: 3.8 to 5.8. Solution may contain hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide for pH adjustment. This medication does not contain preservatives. Tablets: 250 mg: Each nearly-rectangular, film-coated, pink tablet contains levofloxacin 250 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: crospovidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, synthetic red iron oxide, and titanium dioxide. 500 mg: Each nearly-rectangular, film-coated, peach tablet contains levofloxacin 500 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: crospovidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, synthetic red and yellow iron oxides, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Levaquin?

Levofloxacin should not be taken by anyone who: is allergic to levofloxacin or to any of the quinolone antibiotics or to any ingredients of the medication has a history of tendinitis or tendon rupture that happened while taking any of the quinolone antibiotics

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Levaquin?

Blood sugar levels: People who have diabetes who take medications for their blood sugar can have a low blood sugar reaction if taking levofloxacin. Blood sugar levels should be checked more often for people taking medications like glyburide or insulin. Diarrhea: Anyone experiencing diarrhea after starting to use levofloxacin should report this to their doctor. Kidney function: Anyone with reduced kidney function should use levofloxacin with caution. Seizures: Levofloxacin should be used with caution by anyone who has had a seizure or has a condition that makes seizures more likely. Sun sensitivity: People who take levofloxacin are more likely to experience sunburn. While taking levofloxacin, use caution if you spend time in the sun. Stop taking the medication if sun sensitivity occurs Tendinitis: Levofloxacin may increase the chance of tendon injury. Injuries occur more commonly for seniors who also take corticosteroid medications. If you feel any new pain in the tendons, stop taking levofloxacin, avoid physical exercise, and consult your doctor. Pregnancy: It is not known if levofloxacin is safe for use during pregnancy. Breast-feeding: Levofloxacin may pass into breast milk. Women who breast-feed may wish to avoid nursing while taking this medication. Children and adolescents: The safety and effectiveness of levofloxacin for children and adolescents younger than 18 years of age have not been established. Levofloxacin should not be used by those who have not reached puberty, since it may affect the normal growth of bones.