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Levofloxacin

Antibiotic

Brand names:

Levaquin®

Often used for:

Infections

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What is Levofloxacin?

Levofloxacin is an antibiotic used to prevent or treat infections. It works to kill bacteria that cause infections.

Patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and neutropenia may receive levofloxacin until neutropenia improves.

Patients may have tests to monitor blood counts while receiving this medicine.

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May be taken as a tablet by mouth

 
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May be taken as a liquid by mouth

 
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May be given into the eye as eye drops

 
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May be given as a liquid into a vein by IV

 
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Possible Side Effects

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Sun sensitivity
  • Joint or tendon problems
  • Changes in blood sugar levels
  • Abdominal pain
  • Heartburn 
  • Vaginal itching and/or discharge
  • Kidney problems
  • Liver problems

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck

Not all patients who take levofloxacin will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

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Possible Long-Term Side Effects

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Tips for Families

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Let a doctor know if the patient has severe diarrhea while on this medicine.
  • While taking this medicine, it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Patients should follow the care team’s instructions for appropriate fluid intake.
  • Patients should protect their skin from the sun while taking this medicine.
  • While taking levofloxacin, patients should not take antacids unless recommended by a doctor.
  • Multivitamins and certain mineral supplements can affect how levofloxacin works. Discuss all medicines and supplements with the care team.
  • Levofloxacin may affect blood sugar levels. Patients should tell a doctor if they have or ever had diabetes.
  • If taking levofloxacin eye drops for an infection, do not wear contact lenses until a doctor says it is ok to do so.
  • Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Finish all doses of the medicine as instructed by a doctor or pharmacist.

Levofloxacin at home:

  • Take the medicine at the same time each day.
  • Do not take levofloxacin with dairy products or calcium-rich foods or within 2 hours of taking an antacid, multivitamin, or mineral supplement.
  • Tablets: Levofloxacin tablets may be taken with or without food.
  • Oral liquid: Take liquid levofloxacin on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. Shake well, and use the measuring device that comes with the medicine.
  • Eye drops: Wash hands before and after using eye drops. Do not touch the end of the dropper to the eye, finger, or other surface. Tilt head back, and gently squeeze the bottle to give the correct amount into the eye. Close the eye, and keep closed for 1-2 minutes.
  • Give a missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time.
  • Store levofloxacin at room temperature.
  • Do not use the medicine past the expiration date.
  • Follow instructions for safe storage and disposal.

Learn More About Levofloxacin

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.