Oxalux Unit Dose (Levofloxacin Hemihydrate)

Levofloxacin is a broad‑spectrum fluoroquinolone used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria in several organ systems.

• Community‑acquired bacterial pneumonia: helps eradicate the causative pathogens and improve respiratory symptoms.
• Acute bacterial sinusitis: reduces sinus inflammation and clears the infection.
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infection: eliminates the uropathogen and relieves dysuria and frequency.
• Skin and soft‑tissue infections: targets common Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative organisms to promote healing.
• Chronic bronchitis exacerbations: controls bacterial overgrowth and improves airflow.
• Complicated intra‑abdominal infections (as part of combination therapy): contributes to bacterial clearance when used with other agents.

• Levofloxacin hemihydrate inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. By stabilising the DNA‑enzyme complex, it prevents strand re‑ligation, leading to bacterial cell death and a bactericidal effect against a wide range of Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative organisms.

Levofloxacin may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to severe, that vary with individual susceptibility and treatment duration.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Diarrhea: loose stools, occasionally watery.
• Headache: transient cranial discomfort.
• Dizziness: occasional sense of light‑headedness.
• Insomnia: difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Rash: mild skin erythema or itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Tendon rupture: sudden pain or loss of function, especially in the Achilles.
• QT interval prolongation: cardiac rhythm changes detectable on ECG.
• Severe hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis, angio‑edema, or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Peripheral neuropathy: numbness or tingling in extremities.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or jaundice.
• Clostridioides difficile infection: persistent watery diarrhea with abdominal cramping.

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

• Renal impairment: dose adjustment may be required based on kidney function.
• History of tendon disorders: avoid use in patients with prior tendon inflammation or rupture.
• Cardiac arrhythmia risk: monitor QT interval in patients with known prolongation.
• Seizure history: use cautiously in individuals with a history of seizures.
• Pregnancy and lactation: assess risk‑benefit ratio before prescribing.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Levofloxacin can interact with several medicines, altering its efficacy or increasing toxicity risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Theophylline: may increase serum theophylline concentrations.
• Cyclosporine: potential for increased nephrotoxicity.
• Diabetic agents (sulfonylureas, insulin): may cause hypoglycaemia.
• Corticosteroids: combined use may raise tendon‑rupture risk.