Levoxin 250

Indications

Levoxin is prescribed for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms, including:

• Acute Maxillary Sinusitis: Due to Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis.
• Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis: Caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis.
• Community-Acquired Pneumonia: Due to Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, or Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Both uncomplicated and complicated, caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, or Staphylococcus saprophyticus.
• Acute Pyelonephritis: Resulting from Escherichia coli.
• Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Uncomplicated and complicated cases, including abscesses and cellulitis, due to Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Proteus mirabilis, or Enterococcus faecalis.
• Enteric Infections: Caused by Enterobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Campylobacter spp., Vibrio cholerae, Shigella spp., or Salmonella spp.

Always use under the guidance of a registered healthcare professional.

Description

Levoxin is a synthetic, broad-spectrum, third-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic designed for oral administration. It is chemically classified as a chiral fluorinated carboxyquinolone.

Pharmacology

Levofloxacin functions as a potent, broad-spectrum antibiotic by inhibiting bacterial topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase—key enzymes necessary for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. It demonstrates activity against a wide range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive microorganisms.

Dosage

• Oral Tablets: Available in 250 mg, 500 mg, or 750 mg doses, taken once daily. It can be consumed with or without food, although the oral solution should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
• Injectable Form: Administered via slow intravenous infusion; not suitable for intramuscular or subcutaneous use. Common doses include:
  • Acute Sinusitis: 500 mg daily for 10-14 days or 750 mg daily for 5 days.
  • Chronic Bronchitis Exacerbation: 500 mg daily for 7 days or 750 mg daily for 3 days (uncomplicated), 5 days (complicated).
  • Community-Acquired Pneumonia: 500 mg daily for 7-14 days or 750 mg daily for 5 days.
  • Urinary Tract Infections: 250 mg daily for 3-10 days depending on complexity.
  • Children: Doses based on weight (10 mg/kg every 12-24 hours).

Consult a healthcare professional for tailored dosing.

Administration Instructions

For Levofloxacin infusion:

• Inspect the container for leaks and discard if found.
• Do not use if cloudy or precipitate is present.
• Administer with a flow control clamp, ensuring proper fluid levels during infusion.

Always follow healthcare provider instructions.

Interaction

Avoid co-administration with solutions containing multivalent cations (e.g., magnesium) via the same intravenous line. Antacids and iron supplements may decrease absorption, while NSAIDs may increase CNS stimulation risks.

Contraindications

Levofloxacin is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, or any of its components.

Side Effects

Generally well tolerated, Levoxin may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and rare instances of retinal detachment. Serious side effects like tremors, depression, or confusion are very uncommon.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential unknown effects on the fetus or nursing infant.

Precautions & Warnings

Administer Levoxin via slow intravenous infusion only. Ensure adequate hydration to prevent concentrated urine, especially in patients with renal insufficiency.

Overdose Effects

Levoxin has a low potential for acute toxicity. In case of overdose, empty the stomach and maintain hydration while monitoring the patient.

Therapeutic Class

Fourth-Generation Quinolone Antibiotic

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.