Infectious diseases are usually health conditions that are treated with a wide range of drugs , these are known as antibiotics due to the different risk factors that arise from said pathologies.
In this sense, the pharmaceutical industry has focused on creating different types of antibiotics depending on the body system that is affected and the complexity of the infection, one of these being levofloxacin.
Then, in the following article we present levofloxacin, what this powerful antibiotic is for , its adverse reactions and contraindications.
What is levofloxacin?
Levofloxacin is the active principle of a medication classified as an antibiotic of the quinolone and fluoroquinolone type , that is, it is indicated by a doctor if you suffer mainly from bacterial infections .
Note: It can be purchased in 250 mg and 500 mg tablets , while its administration is recommended orally 1 or 2 times a day , taking into account that the duration of treatment will depend on the type of infection and its complexity.
What is levofloxacin used for?
Levofloxacin is an antibiotic for specific use, that is, it is mainly indicated as a treatment for complicated urinary tract infections , although it is also indicated for the following pathologies:
1. Urinary and prostate infections
Urinary tract and prostate infections are usually common in elderly patients and can considerably affect the health of the body. This is due to the presence of multiple bacteria that lodge in the bladder and the rest of the urinary tract, mainly causing discomfort during urination. (1)
To highlight: Levofloxacin is indicated by medical prescription, mostly once a day in diseases such as chronic bacterial prostatitis , taking into account that it should not be taken without medical supervision.
2. Respiratory and skin infections
Levofloxacin can treat skin and soft tissue conditions, as well as respiratory diseases, which are usually known as: community-acquired pneumonia (2) , chronic bronchitis, acute exacerbation , among others. (3)
For its part, in terms of skin conditions , this medication works as a treatment to treat skin flaking caused by bacteria and skin eruptions .
Levofloxacin Side Effects
The adverse effects of levofloxacin can appear from the first dose administered , so it will always be advisable to take this medication under medical supervision, since it can cause:
- Sensitivity to sunlight.
- Muscular weakness.
- Visual disturbances.
- Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
- Hemolytic reactions.
- Conditions related to the central nervous system .
- Hypersensitivity reactions to levofloxacin.
Important: If you experience any of the aforementioned effects, it is recommended to immediately discontinue treatment with levofloxacin and seek medical assistance .
Contraindications of levofloxacin
This antibiotic should be used with caution , since it can significantly affect the function of different systems that make up the body and alter its health. Some of the contraindications that you should be aware of before taking levofloxacin are:
- Its administration is not recommended in people over 60 years of age .
- It cannot be administered if you consume antacids that contain components such as aluminum or magnesium, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, patients with epilepsy or renal failure.
- Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of myasthenia gravis, hemodialysis, and CAPD .
- Pregnant or lactating women should consult a specialist.
You should know: The administration of levofloxacin in children and adolescents is contraindicated. It is recommended to keep the medicine out of the reach of children . Notify your doctor if you are taking any other drug.
Key Findings
- Levofloxacin is an antibiotic of the quinolone and fluoroquinolone class .
- It works as a treatment for urinary tract infections , respiratory tract and skin diseases.
- Overdose of levofloxacin may cause nausea, hypersensitivity to sunlight, and abdominal pain.
- It is not recommended that it be ingested by people over 60 years of age, children and adolescents.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.