Levofloxacin Al (Levofloxacin Hemihydrate)

Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that targets bacterial DNA replication in various infection types.

• Community‑acquired pneumonia: eradicates the causative bacteria to improve respiratory function and reduce disease duration.
• Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: provides bacterial coverage to alleviate symptoms and prevent progression.
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infection: eliminates uropathogens, leading to resolution of urinary symptoms.
• Skin and soft‑tissue infection: treats bacterial skin infections, promoting healing and preventing spread.
• Complicated intra‑abdominal infection: offers broad‑spectrum activity against mixed flora, supporting clinical recovery.

• Levofloxacin exerts its antibacterial effect by binding to bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV. This inhibition prevents the supercoiling and separation of DNA strands required for replication and transcription, leading to bacterial cell death. The drug displays concentration‑dependent killing and a prolonged post‑antibiotic effect against susceptible Gram‑negative and Gram‑positive organisms. It penetrates well into respiratory tissues, urinary tract and skin, achieving therapeutic concentrations at infection sites.

Levofloxacin may cause a variety of adverse reactions, ranging from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset often transient.
• Diarrhea: loose stools that may be self‑limiting.
• Headache: mild to moderate head pain.
• Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Tendon rupture: sudden tendon pain or rupture, especially Achilles.
• QT prolongation: cardiac rhythm disturbance that can lead to arrhythmia.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, breathing difficulty (anaphylaxis).

Before prescribing Levofloxacin, clinicians should consider several safety considerations.

• Assess renal function: dose adjustment may be required in impaired clearance.
• Review cardiac history: avoid in patients with known QT prolongation or arrhythmias.
• Evaluate tendon risk: caution in patients over 60, on corticosteroids, or with recent tendon injury.
• Monitor for hypersensitivity: discontinue if rash, pruritus or anaphylactic signs appear.
• Avoid use in pregnancy and lactation unless benefits outweigh risks: safety data are limited.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Levofloxacin can interact with other medicines, altering its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: reduce absorption of levofloxacin.
• Warfarin: may increase anticoagulant effect and bleeding risk.
• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): heightened risk of CNS stimulation and seizures.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Theophylline: levofloxacin can increase serum theophylline levels, requiring monitoring.
• Cyclosporine: may raise cyclosporine concentrations, necessitating dose adjustment.
• Diabetic agents (e.g., insulin, sulfonylureas): potential for hypoglycemia, monitor blood glucose.