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Levofloxacin >> Consumer Information
CONSUMER INFORMATION
Levofloxacin CAS NO. 100986-85-4
WARNING: This medication may rarely cause tendon damage (e.g.,
tendinitis, tendon rupture) during or after treatment. Your risk for tendon
problems is greater if you are over 60 years of age, if you are taking
corticosteroids (such as prednisone), or if you have had a kidney, heart or
lung transplant. Stop exercising, rest, and seek immediate medical attention
if you develop joint/muscle/tendon pain or swelling.
USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of bacterial
infections. Levofloxacin belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone
antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for virus
infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or overuse of any
antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
HOW TO USE:Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily with or
without food, or as directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while
taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and
response to treatment.
Take this medication at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking any
medications containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum. Some examples
include quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible
buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), vitamins/minerals, and
antacids. Also avoid products that contain sucralfate, bismuth subsalicylate,
iron, or zinc. These substances react with levofloxacin, preventing its full
absorption.
Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a
constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To
help you remember, take this medication at the same time every day.
SIDE EFFECTS: Upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness,
lightheadedness, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects
persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she
has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may rarely cause serious nerve problems that may be
reversible if identified and treated early. Seek immediate medical attention
if you develop any of the following symptoms:
pain/numbness/burning/tingling/weakness in any part of the body, changes in
how you sense touch/pain/temperature/body position/vibration. PRECAUTIONS:
Before taking levofloxacin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are
allergic to it; or to other quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin,
moxifloxacin); or if you have any other allergies.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions.
Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have:
history of a certain abnormal heart rhythm (long QT interval or QT
prolongation), untreated low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical
history, especially of: diabetes, family history of a certain abnormal heart
rhythm (long QT interval or QT prolongation), heart problems (e.g.,
slow/fast/irregular heartbeat, chest pain, heart failure, recent heart
attack), joint/tendon problems (e.g., tendonitis, bursitis), kidney disease,
nervous system disorder (e.g., peripheral neuropathy), seizure disorder,
conditions that increase your risk of seizures (e.g., brain/head injury,
brain tumors, cerebral atherosclerosis).
This drug may make you dizzy or lightheaded. Use caution while driving,
using machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness. Limit
alcoholic beverages.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30
degrees C) in a tightly closed container away from light and moisture. Do
not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
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