Levofloxacin
Information about Levofloxacin
Levofloxacin uses
Levofloxacin is used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is also used in infections of urinary tract, tonsils, sinus, nose, throat, female genital organ, skin & soft tissues and lungs (pneumonia).
How levofloxacin works
Levofloxacin is an antibiotic. It works by stopping the action of a bacterial enzyme called DNA-gyrase. This prevents the bacterial cells from dividing and repairing, thereby killing them.
Common side effects of levofloxacin
Headache, Dizziness, Nausea, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Increased liver enzymes, Infusion site reaction, Inflammation of vein, Gastrointestinal disturbance, Rash, Blood cell abnormalities, Lymphatic system abnormalities, Low blood platelets, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), SIADH (water retention due to excessive ADH), Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level), Convulsion, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Blurred vision, High blood pressure, Tachycardia, Palpitations
Available Medicine for Levofloxacin
Expert advice for Levofloxacin
- Your doctor has prescribed Levofloxacin to cure your infection and improve symptoms.
- Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better.
- Discontinue Levofloxacin and inform your doctor immediately if you get a rash, itchy skin, swelling of face and mouth, or have difficulty in breathing.
- Diarrhea may occur as a side effect but should stop when your course is complete. Inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools.
- Notify your doctor if you feel pain in your tendons, numbness, or tingling sensations.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Levofloxacin
Levofloxacin
Q. Is Levofloxacin safe?
Levofloxacin is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Take it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.
Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Levofloxacin?
If you forget a dose of Levofloxacin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose in the prescribed time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.
Q. Can the use of Levofloxacin cause diarrhea?
Yes, the use of Levofloxacin can cause diarrhea. It is an antibiotic which kills the harmful bacteria. However, it also affects the helpful bacteria in your stomach or intestine and causes diarrhea. If you are experiencing severe diarrhea, talk to your doctor about it.