Indications 

Levaquin is a prescription medicine indicated to treat several types of bacterial infections. It can be used for the following conditions: 

• Nosocomial pneumonia 
• Community-acquired pneumonia 
• Complicated and uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections 
• Chronic bacterial prostatitis 
• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis 
• Acute bacterial sinusitis 
• Urinary tract infections (UTI) 
• Acute pyelonephritis 

Levaquin is also indicated for the treatment of individuals exposed to anthrax or specific types of plague. 

Classified as a fluoroquinolone, Levaquin halts bacterial growth by impeding the vital topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase enzymes necessary for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Levaquin, and with every subsequent refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Do not hesitate to consult with your physician or pharmacist for any questions or uncertainties. 

Levaquin’s dosage and duration of intake may vary per individual based on their medical condition and response to the treatment. For pediatric patients, weight is also considered. 

Typically, Levaquin is taken once daily as prescribed by the doctor without regard to food intake. Adequate hydration is recommended during this medication to maintain proper renal function. 

For optimal efficacy, adhere to a consistent schedule of Levaquin administration at evenly spaced intervals, as directed by your physician. Avoid deviating from the prescribed dosage or frequency of intake, whether by increasing or decreasing it. 

Consistently follow the prescribed dosage regimen of this medication until the full course is completed, even if symptoms abate within a few days.  

Skipping doses of Levaquin may heighten the likelihood of contracting a drug-resistant infection, while premature cessation can lead to the recurrence of the infection. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are potential adverse reactions associated with the use of Levaquin. Notify your physician or pharmacist immediately if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Constipation 
• Diarrhea 
• Headache 
• Dizziness 
• Trouble sleeping 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe abdominal pain, watery or bloody diarrhea 
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat, fluttering sensations in your chest, sudden dizziness (potentially passing out), shortness of breath 
• Any skin rash, even if it appears mild 
• Muscle weakness or breathing difficulties  
• Seizures  
• Signs of increased pressure inside the skull: 
  • Severe headaches 
  • Ear ringing 
  • Dizziness 
  • Nausea 
  • Vision disturbances 
  • Eye pain 
• Signs of liver problems: 
  • Upper abdominal pain 
  • Decreased appetite 
  • Dark urine 
  • Pale stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Symptoms of low blood sugar: 
  • Headache 
  • Hunger 
  • Sweating 
  • Irritability 
  • Dizziness 
  • Nausea 
  • Rapid heart rate 
  • Anxiety 
• Nerve symptoms: 
  • Numbness, weakness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet 
• Serious mood or behavior changes: 
  • Nervousness 
  • Confusion 
  • Agitation 
  • Paranoia 
  • Hallucinations 
  • Memory problems 
  • Trouble concentrating 
  • Suicidal thoughts 
• Signs of a tendon rupture: 
  • Sudden pain 
  • Swelling 
  • Bruising 
  • Tenderness 
  • Stiffness 
  • Movement problems 
  • A popping sound in any joint 

Stop taking Levaquin and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe symptoms mentioned above. 

In rare instances, Levaquin use may result in aortic damage, which may cause life-threatening bleeding. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience persistent and severe chest, abdominal, or back pain. 

Allergic Reactions 

While the chances of a severe allergic reaction to Levaquin are low, prompt medical attention should be sought if it occurs. Indications of a severe allergic response may involve the following: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Facial or throat swelling 

Severe skin reactions may also be experienced while taking Levaquin. Seek emergency medical assistance promptly if you experience any of the following: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning eyes 
• Skin pain 
• A red or purple rash that spreads 
• Blisters 
• Peels 

The side effects of Levaquin listed here are not complete. Tell your doctor immediately if any unmentioned side effects occur and cause discomfort. 

Cautions 

Before starting Levaquin treatment, inform your physician or pharmacist about any known hypersensitivity, especially to levofloxacin or other quinolone antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin, and ofloxacin.  

This medication may include inert constituents that can potentially elicit allergic reactions or other related issues. Request a list of the ingredients from your pharmacist. 

To ensure Levaquin is safe for you, disclose your medical history to your doctor, especially of: 

• Diabetes 
• Joint/tendon disorders (such as tendonitis or bursitis) 
• Kidney impairments 
• Mental/mood disorders (such as depression) 
• A specific muscular condition (myasthenia gravis) 
• Nerve disorders (such as peripheral neuropathy) 
• Seizure disorder 
• Blood vessel impairments (such as an aneurysm or blockage of the aorta or other blood vessels, as well as hardening of the arteries) 
• High blood pressure 
• Certain genetic disorders (Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome) 

Levaquin may interact with various drugs, including strontium. To avoid potential interactions, inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist of all current and planned medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and herbal products. 

Avoid taking medications that contain ofloxacin while taking Levaquin, as the two medications are very similar. 

If you are currently utilizing any of the medications listed below, it is recommended that you ingest these substances at least 2 hours before or after taking levofloxacin. 

• Antacids containing aluminum hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide: 
  • Maalox 
  • Mylanta or other comparable products 
• Didanosine (Videx) solution 
• Sucralfate (Carafate) 
• Vitamin or mineral supplements that contain iron or zinc 

Levaquin can heighten skin sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged or needless exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light (such as tanning beds and sunlamps), and wear protective attire, sunglasses, and sunscreen when going out. Contact your physician if you notice signs of skin redness, swelling, or blistering, resembling a severe sunburn. 

Levaquin could potentially impact the accuracy of a drug-screening urine test, leading to false results. Ensure that you notify laboratory personnel of your Levaquin usage. 

Levaquin may interfere with the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines (such as the typhoid vaccine). Inform your healthcare provider that you are taking this medication before receiving any immunizations/vaccinations. 

The usage of Levaquin during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefits are deemed to outweigh the potential risks to the developing fetus. 

Limited information is available on the presence of levofloxacin in human milk. Consult a doctor before nursing an infant while taking this medication.