MedDataToolLevofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat various infections in adults and some children, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and skin infections. It works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying, helping your body fight off the infection. The medication is usually taken as a tablet, with a common starting dose of 250 mg to 750 mg once daily, depending on the type of infection, and the maximum dose can be up to 750 mg per day. It's important to know that levofloxacin should not be used if you have a known allergy to it or other similar antibiotics. Additionally, you should avoid taking it with antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum, as these can interfere with how well the medication works.
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Uses
- Nosocomial pneumonia.
- Community-acquired pneumonia.
- Complicated skin and skin structure infections.
- Uncomplicated skin infections.
- Chronic bacterial prostatitis.
- Inhalational anthrax (post-exposure).
- Plague.
- Complicated urinary tract infections.
- Acute pyelonephritis.
- Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis.
- Acute bacterial sinusitis.
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Dosage
750 mg for nosocomial pneumonia, 7 to 14 days. 500 mg for community-acquired pneumonia, 7 to 14 days. 750 mg for uncomplicated skin infections, 5 to 10 days. 500 mg for chronic bacterial prostatitis, 28 days. 250 mg for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, 3 days.
Adjust dose for renal impairment.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
NauseaHeadacheDiarrheaInsomniaConstipationDizziness
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- May cause serious reactions like tendon rupture.
- Avoid in patients with myasthenia gravis.
- Use only when no alternatives for certain infections.
- Monitor for blood glucose disturbances.
- Hydrate to prevent concentrated urine.
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Drug interactions
- Antacidsreduces absorption of levofloxacinCaution
- Warfarinmay enhance bleeding riskCaution
- Antidiabetic agentsmonitor blood glucose levelsMonitor
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugsincreased seizure riskCaution
- Theophyllinemonitor levels for adverse reactionsMonitor
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).