Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 17, 2022.
Fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin, are associated with disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse reactions that have occurred together, including tendinitis and tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and CNS effects. Discontinue levofloxacin and avoid use of fluoroquinolones in patients with these serious adverse reactions. Reserve use of levofloxacin for patients with no alternative treatment options for an uncomplicated UTI, acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, or acute bacterial sinusitis. Fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin, may exacerbate muscle weakness in persons with myasthenia gravis. Avoid in patients with known history of myasthenia gravis .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Levaquin
Available Dosage Forms:
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic
Chemical Class: Fluoroquinolone
Uses for levofloxacin
Levofloxacin injection is used to treat bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. It is also used to prevent an anthrax infection after inhalational exposure. Levofloxacin is also used to treat and prevent plague (including pneumonic and septicemic plague).
Levofloxacin belongs to the class of medicines known as quinolone antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, levofloxacin will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.
Levofloxacin is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Before using levofloxacin
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For levofloxacin, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to levofloxacin or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
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