Levofloxacin Hemihydrate

Generic Details

Generic Name

Levofloxacin-Hemihydrate

Other Names

  • Levaquin

Drug Class

  • Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic

Chemical Formula

C18H20FN3O4 • 0.5 H2O

Molecular Weight

370.383 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV

Indications

  • Respiratory tract infections
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Skin and soft tissue infections
  • Acute bacterial sinusitis
  • Chronic bronchitis exacerbation
  • Nosocomial pneumonia

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet
  • Oral solution
  • Injection

Typical Dosage

  • 250-750mg once daily depending on the infection severity

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosing should be based on the child's weight and the severity of the infection

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dosage adjustment may be required based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Insomnia
  • Tendon rupture (rare but serious)

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to fluoroquinolones
  • Myasthenia gravis

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out

Lactation Safety

  • Use caution, excretion in breast milk may occur

Drug Interactions

  • Antacids, sucralfate, iron, and zinc supplements may reduce Levofloxacin absorption

Overdose Symptoms

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Crystalluria

Antidote for Overdose

  • Symptomatic and supportive care

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapid and almost complete
  • Distribution: Penetrates well into tissues and body fluids
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites
  • Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine

Precautions

  • Avoid in patients with a history of tendon disorders
  • Monitor for signs of peripheral neuropathy

Warnings

  • May cause serious and potentially irreversible adverse reactions

Others

  • Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed