Oftaquix (Levofloxacin Hemihydrate)

Levofloxacin is a broad‑spectrum antibacterial agent used in infections of various organ systems.

• Community‑acquired pneumonia: helps eradicate the causative bacteria and improve respiratory symptoms.
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infection: eliminates the uropathogen and resolves urinary discomfort.
• Acute bacterial skin and skin‑structure infections: clears the infection and promotes wound healing.

• Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription and repair. By binding to these enzymes, it prevents DNA unwinding and strand separation, leading to bacterial cell death and eradication of the infection.

Levofloxacin may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset often reported.
• Diarrhea: loose stools occurring during therapy.
• Headache: transient head discomfort.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Photosensitivity: increased skin sensitivity to sunlight.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Tendon rupture: sudden tendon pain or rupture, especially in the Achilles.
• QT interval prolongation: heart rhythm changes detectable on ECG.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty.
• Peripheral neuropathy: numbness or tingling in extremities.
• Clostridioides difficile infection: severe colitis following antibiotic use.

Levofloxacin should be used with caution in patients with specific risk factors and medical histories.

• Renal impairment: dose adjustment may be required.
• History of tendon disorders: avoid use or monitor closely.
• Cardiac arrhythmias: assess QT interval before initiating therapy.
• Pregnancy and lactation: only use if clearly needed after risk‑benefit evaluation.
• Concomitant use of corticosteroids: increase monitoring for tendon toxicity.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Levofloxacin can interact with several medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Theophylline: may increase plasma concentrations of the bronchodilator.
• Cyclosporine: potential for increased nephrotoxicity.
• Diabetic agents (sulfonylureas, insulin): may cause hypoglycaemia.
• Oral contraceptives: possible reduction in contraceptive effectiveness.