About levofloxacin
Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
Used for
- Treats certain bacterial infections, including pneumonia, sinusitis, and urinary infections.
- Does not treat viral infections such as colds or flu.
Usual adult dose
Usually 250–750 mg once daily, depending on infection; treatment commonly lasts 3–14 days.
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhea, headache, or dizziness.
- Tendon inflammation or rupture, nerve symptoms, or mood and thinking changes.
- May affect heart rhythm or blood glucose.
Important warnings
- Rarely causes serious, potentially lasting tendon, nerve, or central nervous system problems.
- Avoid strenuous activity if tendon pain or swelling occurs; seek prompt medical assessment.
- Use only for susceptible bacterial infections; resistance can develop.
- Dose adjustment may be needed with kidney impairment.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; human pregnancy data are limited, and safer alternatives may be preferred.
Breastfeeding
Use cautiously; discuss risks and alternatives with a clinician, as evidence is limited.
Interactions
- Iron, zinc, magnesium, aluminum, or calcium products can reduce absorption; separate dosing.
- Warfarin effects may increase; monitoring may be needed.
- May increase the risk of abnormal heart rhythm with certain medicines.
- Diabetes medicines may increase the risk of low or high blood sugar.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.