Levofloxacin – A Powerful Antibiotic for Bacterial Infections

 *Introduction*

*Levofloxacin* is a *broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic* used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria and is commonly prescribed for *respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs)*, and *skin infections*. Due to its potency and once-daily dosing, it is a preferred option in both outpatient and hospital settings.

*Mechanism of Action*

Levofloxacin works by *inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV*, enzymes necessary for bacterial DNA replication and repair. This causes bacterial cell death, making it *bactericidal* in action.

*Indications (Levofloxacin is used for):*

- *Pneumonia (community- & hospital-acquired)*

- *Acute sinusitis*  

- *Chronic bronchitis exacerbations*  

- *Urinary tract infections (UTI)*  

- *Prostatitis*  

- *Skin and soft tissue infections*  

- *Tuberculosis (as part of multi-drug therapy)*  

- *Traveler’s diarrhea*  

- *Anthrax exposure (post-exposure prophylaxis)*

*Common Brand Names*

- *Tavanic*  

- *Levaquin*  

- *Levoday*  

- *Levoxin*  

- *L-Cin*

- *Leflox*

*Dosage & Administration*

- *Adults (typical):* 250 mg to 750 mg once daily, depending on infection  

- *UTI:* 250–500 mg once daily for 3–10 days  

- *Pneumonia/Skin Infections:* 500–750 mg once daily for 7–14 days  

- *Tuberculosis (adjunct):* 750–1000 mg daily (specialist-guided)

*Note:* Dosage must be adjusted in *renal impairment*.

*Available Forms*

- Tablets: *250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg*  

- Oral solution  

- IV injection  

- Eye drops (for conjunctivitis)

*Side Effects*

*Common:*

- Nausea, diarrhea  

- Headache  

- Insomnia  

- Dizziness

*Serious:*

- Tendon rupture (especially Achilles tendon)  

- QT prolongation (heart rhythm issue)  

- CNS effects (seizures, confusion in elderly)  

- Peripheral neuropathy  

- Photosensitivity (avoid strong sunlight)

*Contraindications*

- Allergy to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones

- History of *tendon disorders* related to fluoroquinolones  

- Use with caution in:  

  - *Elderly patients*  

  - Patients with *QT prolongation*  

  - Those on *antiarrhythmic medications*

*Levofloxacin Resistance*

Due to overuse and misuse, *bacterial resistance* to levofloxacin is rising, especially in *UTIs and respiratory infections*. To reduce resistance:

- Use *only when prescribed*  

- *Complete the full course*  

- Avoid *self-medication*

*Conclusion*

*Levofloxacin* is a highly effective antibiotic when used appropriately. It offers excellent coverage for respiratory, urinary, and soft tissue infections with the convenience of *once-daily dosing*. However, due to the risk of side effects and increasing resistance, it should be used *only under medical supervision*.