Prescription Required
Description
What is Levaquin (Levofloxacin) prescribed for?
Bacterial and Viral Infections have many things common. Both types of infections are caused by microbes, and they spread by such things as; coughing and sneezing, contact with infected people, contact with contaminated surfaces, food and water, and contact with infected creatures such as live stock, insects and even your pets. This medication however, is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, and it belongs to a class of drugs known as quinolone antibiotics. It performs by stopping the growth of bacteria. Remember this antibiotic only treats bacterial infections, it will however, not work on viral infections, such as the common cold and the flu. Using an antibiotic when not needed, it can cause it to not work for any future infections.
This medication comes in a singular dose of 500mg. Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.
Directions
This medication is to be taken by mouth, usually once a day, with our without food. Take note to drink plenty of fluids while on this medication.
This medication is to be taken at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking other products that may make Levaquin work less than it should. Examples include quinapril, sucralfate, vitamins/minerals (including iron, zinc), and products that contain magnesium, aluminum, or calcium (such as antacids, didanosine solution, calcium-enriched juice), among others.
The dose is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. And for the best effect, take this medicine at evenly spaced times.
Cautions
Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Levofloxacin; or to other quinolone antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin, ofloxacin); or to any other medications or allergies in general.
Also it is best to notify your doctor of your medical history. Inform you doctor if you have had any of the following; diabetes, joint/tendon problems (such as tendonitis, bursitis), kidney problems, mental/mood disorders (such as depression), a certain muscle condition (myasthenia gravis), nerve problems (such as peripheral neuropathy), seizure disorder, blood vessel problems (such as aneurysm or blockage of the aorta or other blood vessels, hardening of the arteries), high blood pressure, certain genetic conditions (Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome).
Levofloxacin may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that need medical attention right away.
The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Before using levofloxacin, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).
Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/"water pills") or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using levofloxacin safely.
Levofloxacin may rarely cause serious changes in blood sugar, especially if you have diabetes. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Watch for symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. Also watch for symptoms of low blood sugar such as sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet. It is a good habit to carry glucose tablets or gel to treat low blood sugar. If you don't have these reliable forms of glucose, rapidly raise your blood sugar by eating a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, honey, or candy, or by drinking fruit juice or non-diet soda. Tell your doctor right away about the reaction and the use of this product. To help prevent low blood sugar, eat meals on a regular schedule, and no not skip meals. Your doctor may need to switch you to another antibiotic or adjust your diabetes medications if any reaction occurs.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur while taking this mediation, they are as follows; Nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, or trouble sleeping may occur. However, if these symptoms do persist or worsen, it is best to consult with your doctor.
If you are experiencing any of these rare but very serious side effects, seek medical help right away. The side effects are as follows; unusual bruising/bleeding, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), signs of liver problems (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine).
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: chest pain, severe dizziness, fainting, fast/irregular heartbeat, signs of a tear/break in the main blood vessel called the aorta (sudden/severe pain in the stomach/chest/back, cough, shortness of breath).
This medication may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea) due to a type of resistant bacteria. This condition may occur during treatment or weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Tell your doctor right away if you develop: diarrhea that doesn't stop, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, blood/mucus in your stool.
Do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid medications if you have any of these symptoms because these products may make them worse.
Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a new yeast infection. Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new symptoms.
FAQs
What is Levofloxacin used for?
Levaquin, which is the brand name for Levofloxacin, is a medication used to treat multiple bacterial infections. When used, it is put to work by stopping the growth of the bacteria. Just keep in mind that this antibiotic is meant only for bacterial infections, it will not work with any viral infections such as the cold or flu. This medication comes in the singular dosage of 500mg, and can be purchased in both the brand choice and the generic alternative. If you have any questions regarding this medication, or anything in general, feel free to give us a call at 1-877-385-8998.
How long do the side effects of Levofloxacin last?
While most of the more milder and common side effects will go away within 24 to 48 hours, some of the more serious side effects can last much longer. For this you should speak with your doctor regarding your condition, and where and how to take the next step.
How fast does Levofloxacin work?
Peak levels for this medication are usually reached within 1 to 2 hours. But it is also known to take up to three days before seeing a difference.
How long does Levaquin stay in your system?
The average time it takes for this mediation to be eliminated from your body is within a range of 30 to 40 hours. So roughly about a day, to a day and a half. Of course, all of this is depending on the person taking the medication.
What are the side effects of Levaquin?
Some of the most common side effects for Levofloxacin are listed as follows; Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, constipation, insomnia, dizziness, abdominal pain, rash, abdominal gas, itching, and vaginal itching or discharge. Keep in mind that these are not all of the side effects listed for this medication. And if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult with your doctor.
How to take Levaquin?
This medication should be taken with a glass of water, each day at the same time. And your doctor will probably recommend that you begin to drink extra liquids to keep your kidney’s functioning properly while on this medication. Do note that you may also take this medication with or without food. However, you should always take it exactly as directed to you by your doctor.
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