Levoxin

Indications

Levoxin Eye Drops are specifically indicated for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis caused by susceptible strains of the following bacteria:

Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria:

• Corynebacterium species
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Staphylococcus epidermidis
• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Streptococcus (Groups C/F)
• Streptococcus (Group G)
• Streptococcus viridans group

Aerobic Gram-Negative Bacteria:

• Acinetobacter iwoffi
• Haemophilus influenzae
• Serratia marcescens

Additionally, Levoxin is effective in treating various ocular infections, including bacterial corneal ulcers, blepharitis, hordeolum, and perioperative conditions. Consult a registered physician before using this medication.

Pharmacology

Levofloxacin eye drops are a sterile, topical ophthalmic solution. This synthetic, broad-spectrum, third-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic is bactericidal and active against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative ocular pathogens. Levofloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination.

Dosage & Administration

For 0.5% Eye Drops (Adults and Children 1 Year and Older):

• Days 1 and 2: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 2 hours while awake, up to 8 times daily.
• Days 3 to 7: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 4 hours while awake, up to 4 times daily.

For 1.5% Eye Drops (Adults and Children 6 Years and Older):

• Days 1 to 3: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 30 minutes to 2 hours while awake and approximately 4 to 6 hours after bedtime.
• Day 4 to Treatment Completion: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 1 to 4 hours while awake.

Note: The safety and effectiveness of Levofloxacin in children under 1 year of age have not been established. Consult a registered physician before using this medication.

Interaction

Although specific drug interaction studies with Levoxin eye drops have not been conducted, systemic administration of some quinolones may elevate plasma levels of theophylline, interfere with caffeine metabolism, and enhance the effects of oral anticoagulants like warfarin and its derivatives.

Contraindications

Levoxin is contraindicated for individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Levofloxacin, other quinolones, or any of the components within this medication.

Side Effects

Side effects are reported in approximately 1-3% of patients and may include transient blurred vision, fever, foreign body sensation, headache, temporary ocular burning, discomfort, pharyngitis, and photophobia. Rarely, allergic reactions, lid edema, ocular dryness, and itching occur in less than 1% of patients.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C: Levofloxacin should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. Levofloxacin levels in human milk have not been studied, so caution is advised when administering this medication to nursing mothers.

Precautions & Warnings

Prolonged use may lead to the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If a superinfection occurs, discontinue use and consider alternative therapy.

Therapeutic Class

4-Quinolone preparations.

Storage Conditions

Store Levoxin eye drops in a cool, dry place (15°-25°C), protected from light, and out of reach of children.