Levoxin Eye Drop

Indications

Levoxin Eye Drops are specifically formulated 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 lwoffii
• Haemophilus influenzae
• Serratia marcescens

Additionally, Levoxin is effective in treating various other ocular infections, including bacterial corneal ulcers, blepharitis, hordeolum, and perioperative conditions.

Pharmacology

Levofloxacin Eye Drops is a sterile topical ophthalmic solution. This synthetic, broad-spectrum, third-generation fluoroquinolone acts as a bactericidal antibiotic, targeting a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative ocular pathogens. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting bacterial topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase enzymes, which are essential for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination.

Dosage & Administration

0.5% Eye Drops: For adults and children aged 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 a day.
• Days 3 through 7: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 4 hours while awake, up to 4 times a day.

1.5% Eye Drops: For adults and children aged 6 years and older:

• Days 1 through 3: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 30 minutes to 2 hours while awake, with additional doses approximately 4 to 6 hours after bedtime.
• Day 4 through treatment completion: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 1 to 4 hours while awake.

Note for Children under 1 Year: The safety and effectiveness of Levofloxacin in infants under 1 year have not been established.
Always consult your physician before using this medication.

Interactions

While specific drug interaction studies for Levoxin Eye Drops have not been conducted, systemic administration of some quinolones may increase plasma levels of theophylline, interfere with caffeine metabolism, and enhance the effects of oral anticoagulants like warfarin and its derivatives.

Contraindications

Levoxin is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Levofloxacin, other quinolones, or any components of this formulation.

Side Effects

Adverse effects occur in approximately 1-3% of patients and may include:

• Transient blurred vision
• Fever
• Foreign body sensation
• Headache
• Temporary ocular burning
• Ocular pain or discomfort
• Pharyngitis
• Photophobia

Less than 1% of patients may experience allergic reactions, lid edema, ocular dryness, and ocular itching.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C: Levofloxacin should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. The drug has not been measured in human milk; therefore, caution is advised when administering Levofloxacin Eye Drops 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 initiate alternative therapy.

Therapeutic Class

4-Quinolone Preparations

Storage Conditions

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