Clinical Overview
Levofloxacin is the active S-(-)-enantiomer of the fluoroquinolone ofloxacin. It exerts potent bactericidal activity by inhibiting bacterial topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase, demonstrating 8- to 128-fold higher potency than the R-enantiomer against respiratory and systemic pathogens. High bioavailability allows 1:1 oral-to-intravenous conversion. Indicated for community-acquired and nosocomial pneumonia, acute pyelonephritis, complicated skin infections, chronic bacterial prostatitis, and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Administered by a licensed healthcare professional by slow intravenous infusion over 60 minutes (for 500 mg) or 90 minutes (for 750 mg). Rapid IV infusion must be avoided to prevent severe hypotension.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Nausea, headache, insomnia, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation. Rare/Severe: Boxed warning: Achilles tendonitis and rupture, peripheral neuropathy, CNS effects (psychosis, seizures), QT prolongation, hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia, and aortic aneurysm rupture/dissection.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Boxed warning for disabling adverse reactions. Contraindicated in patients with myasthenia gravis, history of fluoroquinolone tendon disorders, or severe QT prolongation. Avoid strenuous physical activity during therapy. Report any chest/back pain, tendon swelling, or tingling immediately.
Schedule H1 (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered medical practitioner or qualified pharmacist before initiating, modifying, or substituting any medication regimen.