Levofloxacin Aurobindo (Levofloxacin)

Levofloxacin is a broad‑spectrum antibacterial indicated for several infection types.

• Urinary tract infections: eradicates susceptible uropathogens and resolves symptoms.
• Respiratory tract infections: treats community‑acquired pneumonia and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: eliminates common Gram‑negative and Gram‑positive bacteria.
• Prostatitis: reduces bacterial load in chronic bacterial prostatitis.
• Sinusitis: clears infection in acute bacterial sinusitis.

• Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. By binding to these enzymes, it prevents the supercoiling and separation of DNA strands, leading to bacterial cell death and a bactericidal effect against susceptible organisms.

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

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild gastrointestinal upset.
• Diarrhea: loose stools, often self‑limiting.
• Headache: transient cranial discomfort.
• Dizziness: occasional vertigo or light‑headedness.
• Rash: mild skin erythema or itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Tendon rupture: especially Achilles tendon, requiring immediate medical attention.
• QT prolongation: cardiac rhythm disturbance that may lead to arrhythmia.
• Severe hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Central nervous system effects: seizures or psychosis in susceptible patients.

Levofloxacin should be used with caution in specific clinical situations.

• Renal impairment: adjust dose or monitor renal function.
• History of tendon disorders: avoid use or discontinue promptly if pain develops.
• Cardiac risk: assess QT interval in patients with known prolongation.
• Concomitant CNS active drugs: monitor for additive neuropsychiatric effects.
• Pregnancy and lactation: only if benefits outweigh risks, after professional evaluation.

Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Levofloxacin can alter the activity of several co‑administered medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: markedly reduce levofloxacin absorption.
• Warfarin: may increase anticoagulant effect, raising bleeding risk.
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen): heightened risk of central nervous system stimulation.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Theophylline: possible increase in plasma concentration, monitor for toxicity.
• Cyclosporine: may raise cyclosporine levels, adjust dosing as needed.
• Diabetic agents (e.g., insulin, sulfonylureas): potential for altered glucose control.