Levaquin (generic name: levofloxacin; brand names include: Levotab / Levotas / Tavanic / Gatigol / Lebact / Terlev / Cravit / Levox/ Levores) is a third-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for treating infections caused by certain bacteria.

Levaquin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a variety of infections including pneumonia; chronic bronchitis; and sinus, urinary tract, kidney, and skin infections. It is currently the only respiratory quinolone antibiotic approved by the FDA for the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia. It may also be used to prevent or slow anthrax after exposure.

Levaquin works by killing bacteria that cause the infection.

Recommendations

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Levaquin exactly as directed.

Levaquin is usually taken once daily for 7-14 days. Treatment for some infections may take 6 weeks or longer.

Levaquin works best if it is used at the same time each day. Levaquin tablets must be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed. Tablets should be taken with a full glass of water. Drinking extra fluids while you are taking Levaquin is recommended.

To clear up your infection completely, use Levaquin for the full course of treatment. Keep using it even if you feel better in a few days.

Do not miss any doses of Levaquin. If you miss a dose of Levaquin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat, light and moisture.

Precautions

Before taking Levaquin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows if:

you have liver or kidney problems; epilepsy; G6PD deficiency; myasthenia gravis; blood pressure problems or diabetes;
you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: levofloxacin.