Levofloxacine Fresenius Kabi (Levofloxacin)

• Levofloxacin is a broad‑spectrum fluoroquinolone used to treat bacterial infections in various organ systems.
• Community‑acquired pneumonia: eradicates the causative pathogens and improves respiratory function.
• Acute bacterial sinusitis: clears sinus infection and relieves congestion.
• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: reduces bacterial load and eases bronchial inflammation.
• Complicated urinary tract infections: eliminates resistant uropathogens and resolves infection.
• Complicated skin and soft‑tissue infections: targets Gram‑negative and Gram‑positive organisms for rapid healing.
• Intra‑abdominal infections: provides coverage against mixed aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

• Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA supercoiling and replication. By binding to these enzymes, it prevents DNA strand separation, halting bacterial DNA synthesis and transcription, which leads to bacterial cell death.

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

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild gastrointestinal upset occurring in many patients.
• Diarrhea: loose stools that may be self‑limiting.
• Headache: transient cranial discomfort.
• Rash: mild skin erythema or itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Tendon rupture: especially in older adults or those on corticosteroids.
• QT interval prolongation: may precipitate cardiac arrhythmias.
• Clostridioides difficile infection: severe colitis requiring medical attention.

Levofloxacin requires careful assessment before use.

• Renal function: adjust dosing in patients with impaired renal clearance.
• QT interval: avoid in patients with known prolongation or concomitant QT‑prolonging drugs.
• History of tendon disorders: use with caution, particularly in older adults.
• Pregnancy and lactation: safety not established; prescribe only if benefit outweighs risk.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for potential interactions.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Levofloxacin can interact with several medicines, requiring monitoring or avoidance.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum: reduce levofloxacin absorption.
• Warfarin: may increase INR and bleeding risk.
• Cyclosporine: elevated cyclosporine levels can occur.
• Other QT‑prolonging agents: additive risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• NSAIDs: increased risk of central nervous system stimulation.
• Corticosteroids: heightened tendon rupture risk.
• Oral hypoglycemics: potential for enhanced hypoglycaemia.