Levofloxacină Atb (Levofloxacin Hemihydrate)

Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory, urinary, and skin systems.

• Community-acquired pneumonia: eliminates the typical bacterial pathogens, aiding recovery of lung function.
• Acute bacterial sinusitis: reduces sinus inflammation by clearing the infecting organisms.
• Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis: treats bacterial flare‑ups, helping restore airway patency.
• Urinary tract infections: eradicates uropathogens, relieving dysuria and preventing complications.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: combats susceptible bacteria, promoting wound healing.

• Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication and transcription. By binding to these enzymes, it prevents the supercoiling and separation of DNA strands, halting bacterial cell division and leading to bacterial death.

Levofloxacin may cause several adverse reactions, ranging from mild to potentially serious.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: upset stomach often occurring shortly after dosing.
• Diarrhea: loose stools that may be watery.
• Headache: mild to moderate head pain.
• Dizziness: sensation of lightheadedness or imbalance.
• Insomnia: difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Abdominal pain: discomfort in the stomach area.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Tendon rupture: sudden tendon failure, especially in the Achilles.
• QT interval prolongation: heart rhythm disturbance that can lead to arrhythmia.
• Severe allergic reactions: rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Clostridioides difficile infection: severe colitis following antibiotic use.
• Peripheral neuropathy: nerve pain or weakness.
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome: serious skin and mucous membrane reaction.

Levofloxacin should be used with caution in specific patient groups and clinical situations.

• Assess renal function: adjust dose in impaired patients.
• Avoid use in patients with known tendon disorders: risk of tendon rupture.
• Monitor for QT prolongation: especially with concomitant QT‑prolonging drugs.
• Consider pregnancy category B: weigh benefits versus potential risks.
• Avoid in children unless no alternatives: fluoroquinolones are generally not first‑line in pediatrics.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and light.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing aluminum, magnesium, or calcium: reduce levofloxacin absorption.
• Warfarin: may increase bleeding risk.
• Other QT‑prolonging agents: heightened risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): may increase central nervous system effects.
• Theophylline: levofloxacin can raise plasma theophylline levels.
• Corticosteroids: combined use may increase tendon rupture risk.