What it is used for
- Some serious chest infections such as certain pneumonia
- Complicated urinary and kidney infections
- Some sinus infections that have not responded to other antibiotics
- Certain skin and prostate infections
- Specialist use for some serious infections
How it works
Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It blocks enzymes bacteria need to copy their DNA, stopping them from multiplying. Because of the risk of rare but serious side effects, it is reserved for infections where other antibiotics are unsuitable.
How it is taken
Comes as tablets, a liquid, eye drops, and an injection in hospital. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid taking it at the same time as dairy or supplements containing calcium, iron or zinc unless your pharmacist advises otherwise.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
- Stomach upset
Serious effects — get help
- Tendon pain, swelling or a sudden tendon snap, especially around the heel
- New numbness, tingling, weakness or burning pain (possible nerve effects)
- Mood changes, confusion, anxiety, hallucinations or thoughts of self-harm
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling or breathing difficulty
- An irregular or fast heartbeat or fainting
- Low blood sugar in some people
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Dairy products and supplements with calcium, iron, zinc or magnesium (separate the timing)
- Antacids
- Blood thinners such as warfarin
- Some medicines that affect heart rhythm
- Certain diabetes medicines
- Some anti-inflammatory painkillers
Who should take care
- Fluoroquinolones can cause rare but serious and lasting tendon, nerve, muscle and mood effects, so they are used cautiously
- Tell your clinician about tendon, nerve or seizure problems
- Tell your clinician if you have heart rhythm problems or diabetes
- Usually avoided in pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children unless specifically advised
- Use sun protection as it can increase sensitivity to sunlight