How does it work?

Levofloxacin belongs to a group of broad spectrum antibiotics called the quinolones. It works by entering the bacterial cell and inhibiting a chemical called DNA-gyrase which is involved in the production of genetic material (DNA). This therefore prevents the bacteria from reproducing and their growth is stopped.

What is it used for?

Chronic bronchitis

Infection of the bladder or tubes that pass urine

Inflammation of the sinuses

Lung infection

Skin or wound infections

Warning!

Avoid exposure to sunlight or sunlamps while using this medicine, as it increases the sensitivity of your skin. If exposure to sunlight cannot be avoided, use protective measures such as sun-creams or protective clothing.

This medicine may reduce your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you and you are sure it won't affect your performance.

At the first sign of pain or inflammation of the joints, patients taking quinolone antibiotics should stop taking the drug, rest the affected limb(s) and consult a doctor immediately.

Consult your doctor immediately if you experience severe, prolonged and/or bloody diarrhoea while taking this medicine, as it may be necessary for you to stop treatment.

Use with caution in

Decreased kidney function

History of convulsions, eg epilepsy

History of disorders of the Central Nervous System (CNS)

Lack of the chemical G6PD in the blood (G6PD deficiency)

Not to be used in

Epilepsy

Not generally recommended for use in children and growing adolescents.

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. For this reason, the manufacturer states that it should not be used during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Do not take iron preparations or indigestion remedies at the same time of day as this medication.

Take at regular intervals. Complete the prescribed course unless otherwise directed.

This medication is to be swallowed whole, not chewed.

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