Generic name: levofloxacin (oral) [ LEE-voe-FLOX-a-sin ]
Brand name: Levaquin
Dosage forms: oral solution (25 mg/mL); oral tablet (250 mg; 500 mg; 750 mg)
Drug class:Quinolones
What is levofloxacin?
Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone (flor-o-KWIN-o-lone) antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body. Levofloxacin is used to treat different types of bacterial infections. Levofloxacin is also used to treat people who have been exposed to anthrax or certain types of plague.
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics can cause serious or disabling side effects. Levofloxacin should be used only for infections that cannot be treated with a safer antibiotic.
Levofloxacin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Levofloxacin can cause serious side effects, including tendon problems, nerve damage, serious mood or behavior changes, or low blood sugar.
Stop using levofloxacin and call your doctor at once if you have symptoms such as:headache, hunger, irritability, numbness, tingling, burning pain, confusion, agitation, paranoia, problems with memory or concentration, thoughts of suicide, or sudden pain or movement problems in any of your joints.
In rare cases, levofloxacin may cause damage to your aorta, which could lead to dangerous bleeding or death. Get emergency medical help if you have severe and constant pain in your chest, stomach, or back.
