Levofloxacin

LEVOFLOXACIN

Manufacturer: Redpharm Drug

Score: 141.0

Quick Summary

Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including pneumonia, skin and skin structure infections, urinary tract infections, and anthrax. It is available in tablet form and should be taken with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease. The drug has several important safety considerations, including the risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture, particularly in elderly patients, and the potential for serious adverse reactions, such as allergic reactions and liver damage.

Key Clinical Findings and Indications

Levofloxacin is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections, including those caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
It is used to treat community-acquired pneumonia, nosocomial pneumonia, skin and skin structure infections, urinary tract infections, and anthrax
The drug has been shown to be effective in clinical trials, with response rates ranging from 80-90% for various indications

Important Safety Information

Warning

Levofloxacin may cause serious adverse reactions, including tendonitis and tendon rupture, particularly in elderly patients, and allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other quinolone antibiotics
Patients with a history of myasthenia gravis

Adverse Reactions

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Headache
Dizziness
Insomnia
Constipation

Dosing Recommendations

General Guidance

Dose adjustments are necessary for patients with renal impairment, with a creatinine clearance of less than 50 mL/min

Community-acquired pneumonia

Adult Dose

500 mg every 24 hours for 7-14 days

Pediatric Dose

Not recommended for pediatric patients under 18 years of age

Urinary tract infections

Adult Dose

250 mg every 24 hours for 3-5 days

Pediatric Dose

Not recommended for pediatric patients under 18 years of age

Special Population Considerations

Pregnancy

Levofloxacin is a category C drug, meaning that it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus

Nursing Mothers

Levofloxacin is excreted in human milk, and caution should be exercised when administering the drug to nursing mothers

Pediatric Use

Levofloxacin is not recommended for pediatric patients under 18 years of age, except for the treatment of inhalational anthrax and plague

Geriatric Use

Geriatric patients are at increased risk for developing severe tendon disorders, including tendon rupture, and should be monitored closely for signs and symptoms of tendonitis

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