Levofloxacin (Ophthalmic)

Generic Details

Generic Name

Levofloxacin-ophthalmic

Other Names

  • Levaquin Ophthalmic

Drug Class

  • Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic

Chemical Formula

C18H20FN3O4

Molecular Weight

361.37 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, leading to inhibition of DNA replication, repair, and transcription.

Indications

  • Bacterial conjunctivitis
  • Corneal ulcers
  • Keratitis

Common Dosage Forms

  • Ophthalmic solution

Typical Dosage

  • Instill 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours while awake for the first 2 days, then 1-2 drops 4 times daily for the next 5 days.

Pediatric Dosage

  • Safety and efficacy not established in children under 1 year.

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dose adjustment may be required based on renal function.

Side Effects

  • Eye irritation
  • Burning sensation
  • Redness
  • Watery eyes
  • Taste disturbance (if solution enters the mouth)

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other quinolones

Pregnancy Category

  • Not assigned. Use only if clearly needed.

Lactation Safety

  • Use caution. Consider benefits versus risks.

Drug Interactions

  • No significant interactions reported with ophthalmic use.

Overdose Symptoms

  • Unlikely with ophthalmic use, rinse eyes thoroughly if overdose occurs.

Antidote for Overdose

  • Not applicable for ophthalmic overdose.

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption after ophthalmic administration.
  • Distribution: Limited distribution in ocular tissues.
  • Metabolism: Hepatic metabolism.
  • Excretion: Mainly excreted unchanged in the urine.

Precautions

  • Avoid contact with soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting lenses after administration.

Warnings

  • For ophthalmic use only. Not for injection or oral ingestion.

Others

  • Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed even if symptoms improve to prevent bacterial resistance.