| drug name | Levofloxacin |
| classification | Fluoroquinolone antibacterial |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Well absorbed after oral administration, peak plasma concentrations achieved within 1-2 hours. Food slightly delays absorption but does not significantly reduce bioavailability. | | distribution | Distributed throughout the body, including the lungs, bone, and kidneys. High concentrations achieved in tissues and fluids. | | metabolism | Metabolized primarily by the liver to inactive metabolites, with minimal renal excretion. | | excretion | Excreted primarily as metabolites via the kidneys. Renal impairment can affect clearance. |
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| suggested dosage | | oral | | adult | | typical | 500 mg once daily for mild to moderate infections, or 750 mg once daily for more serious infections | | max | 750mg | | notes | Dosage may vary depending on the specific infection and patient factors (e.g., renal function, severity of illness). Always follow prescribing information from a physician or pharmacist. |
| | note | A 25-year-old male weighing 70kg would likely be prescribed within the range of the typical adult dosage. |
| | injectable | | details | Available in injectable forms for IV administration, requiring medical supervision. | | notes | IV dosage guidelines must be followed strictly. Dosage is adjusted depending on the infection and patient. |
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| indications | | 1 | Community-acquired pneumonia | | 2 | Skin and soft tissue infections | | 3 | Urinary tract infections | | 4 | Other bacterial infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis and gonorrhoea. |
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| safety in pregnancy | Levofloxacin should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Limited data is available; consult a physician. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Levofloxacin is excreted in breast milk. Discontinue breastfeeding or use caution depending on the benefits of the medication for the mother versus the risks to the infant. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Dizziness | | 4 | Peripheral neuropathy | | 5 | Photosensitivity | | 6 | tendinopathy and tendon rupture (especially in long-term use) | | 7 | Muscle weakness | | 8 | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives) | | 9 | Hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis) which are rare but serious |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to fluoroquinolones | | 2 | Severe renal impairment | | 3 | Patients with Myasthenia gravis |
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| interactions | | 1 | Antacids (may reduce absorption) | | 2 | Theophylline (may increase theophylline levels) | | 3 | Warfarin (may increase warfarin anticoagulant effect) | | 4 | Other medications that can decrease or increase kidney function | | 5 | Aluminum/magnesium antacids, as well as calcium products |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor for signs of tendonitis or rupture, especially in patients taking concurrent corticosteroids or with a history of joint disorders | | 2 | Caution in patients with pre-existing QT prolongation or those taking other drugs that prolong QT interval | | 3 | Monitor renal function and adjust dosage accordingly, particularly in patients with renal impairment | | 4 | Do not use in pediatric patients under 18 years (except in specific situations as determined by a doctor) |
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| additional information | Levofloxacin is a potent antimicrobial agent used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. However, like all medications, it may have side effects, so it's important to use it only as directed by a healthcare professional. |
| patient specific details | | age | 25 years | | weight | 70 kg | | notes | Important Considerations: This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions about your health or before making any decisions related to medical treatment. |
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