Levofloxacin

About levofloxacin

Levofloxacin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections; it works by killing bacteria that cause the infection.

Before taking levofloxacin

Before taking levofloxacin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer with epilepsy or any other condition that causes convulsions (fits).
• If you have glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency or if you have a family history of this condition.
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (muscle weakening disease).
• If you suffer from blood pressure problems or diabetes.
• If the person who will be taking the medicine is a child or teenager.

How to take levofloxacin

• Take levofloxacin exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• You must complete the course of levofloxacin, take at regular spaced intervals.
• Levofloxacin must be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of levofloxacin contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course. If you stop taking this medicine too soon your infection is likely to return and could be more difficult to treat.
• Some people develop thrush after taking a course of antibiotics. If you think you have thrush speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Important: Oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking levofloxacin. In addition to taking the contraceptive pill, use a barrier method of contraception (e.g. condoms) while you are taking levofloxacin and for at least seven days after your course has finished. If these seven days run into a 'pill-free' week, start taking the next packet of contraceptives without leaving a break. If you are taking the type of contraceptive pill that is taken every day or if you need any further advice, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Important: If you experience pain or inflammation in your joints, particularly hips, knees or ankles stop taking levofloxacin and rest the limb until the pain eases and contact your doctor the next working day.
• Important: levofloxacin increases the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sun block product, particularly if you are exposed to strong sunlight, for long periods during the day.

Can levofloxacin cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Levofloxacin can also cause other side effects but they are much less common, if you experience any other problems that you think may be caused by your medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store levofloxacin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines