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Levaquin

(levofloxacin)

In this factsheet:
• How does Levaquin work? What will it do for me?
• How should I use Levaquin?
• What form(s) does Levaquin come in?
• Who should NOT take Levaquin?
• What side effects are possible with Levaquin?
• Are there any other precautions or warnings for Levaquin?
• What other drugs could interact with Levaquin?

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

How does Levaquin work? What will it do for me?

Levofloxacin belongs to the class of medications called quinolones. It is an antibiotic used for the treatment of certain bacterial infections. It is most commonly used to treat infections of the bladder, kidney, prostate, sinus, skin, and lung.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

How should I use Levaquin?

The usual recommended adult dose of levofloxacin ranges from 250 mg to 500 mg daily. In some cases, doses of 500 mg twice a day may be used. The exact dose depends on the condition being treated and other medical conditions present.

This medication may be taken with or without food. Levofloxacin should be taken at least two hours before or two hours after antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum; sucralfate; or vitamin and mineral tablets containing calcium, iron, or zinc. Make sure to drink plenty of fluid each day while taking levofloxacin.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Keep taking this medication until the prescription is complete even if you feel better. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Levaquin come in?

Injection

Each mL of sterile, non-pyrogenic, premixed, ready-to-use solution contains levofloxacin 5 mg in 5% Dextrose (D5W). pH: 3.8 to 5.8. Solutions of hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may have been added to adjust the pH. Preservative-free.

Tablets

250 mg
Each modified rectangular, film-coated, terra cotta pink tablet, embossed "LEVAQUIN" on one side and "250" on the other, contains levofloxacin 250 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: crospovidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, synthetic red iron oxide and titanium dioxide.

500 mg
Each modified rectangular, film-coated, peach tablet, embossed "LEVAQUIN" on one side and "500" on the other, contains levofloxacin 500 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: crospovidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, synthetic red and yellow iron oxides and titanium dioxide.

750 mg
Each modified rectangular, film-coated, white tablet, embossed "LEVAQUIN" on one side and "750" on the other, contains levofloxacin 750 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: crospovidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80 and titanium dioxide.

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

Who should NOT take Levaquin?

Levofloxacin should not be taken by anyone who:

• is allergic to levofloxacin or any ingredients of the medication
• is allergic to other quinolone antibiotics
• has a history of tendinitis or tendon rupture that happened while taking any of the quinolone antibiotics
• is pregnant or nursing

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