Common Use

Levaquin is an antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone class. It works by stopping bacterial growth by inhibiting the reproduction and repair of their DNA. Other fluoroquinolone antibiotics include:

• Cipro
• Noroxin
• Floxin
• Trovan
• Maxaquin

Levaquin treats bacterial infections of the skin, sinuses, kidneys, bladder, or prostate. It is also used for people exposed to anthrax.

Dosage and Directions

Take each dose with a full glass of water, either on an empty stomach or with a meal, at evenly spaced intervals. To prevent crystal formation in urine, drink more water than usual while on this medication.

Precautions

Avoid prolonged UV radiation exposure. Use caution when performing tasks requiring high concentration and fast reactions, such as driving. Consult your doctor before taking Levaquin if you have:

• Kidney or liver disease
• Myasthenia gravis
• Joint problems
• Seizures or epilepsy
• Diabetes
• Low potassium levels (hypokalemia)

Contraindications

Do not use Levaquin if you have a history of hypersensitivity to:

• Levaquin
• Quinolones
• Any other ingredients in this medication

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Constipation

Less common side effects:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Dizziness
• Rash
• Flatulence
• Upper stomach pain
• Itching

Use with caution in patients with central nervous system disorders. Serious allergic reactions like hives and anaphylaxis may occur.

Drug Interactions

Avoid taking with:

• Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum (Tums, Rolaids)
• Anti-ulcer medication (Carafate)
• Iron or zinc supplements

Separate these medications from Levaquin by at least 2 hours. Potential interactions also occur with:

• Didanosine (Videx, Videx EC)
• Theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theolair, Slo-Phyllin, Slo-Bid, Elixophyllin)
• Warfarin (Coumadin)
• Insulin or oral diabetes medications (Glucotrol, Micronase, Diabeta, Glynase)
• NSAIDs (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin, Aleve, Naprosyn, Anaprox, Orudis KT, Orudis, Oruvail)

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Overdose

Seek medical help if severe symptoms appear, including:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Blood in urine

Storage

Store at room temperature (59-77°F or 15-25°C). Keep away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview and does not cover all possible uses, interactions, or precautions. Do not use this information for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. We are not liable for any errors in this information or consequences from its use.