Levostat Caplets Levofloxacin (Levofloxacin Hemihydrate) 500 mg
Levostat (Levofloxacin) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin infections, chronic prostatitis, and post-exposure anthrax and plague. It is taken orally once daily. The most common side effects include nausea, headache, diarrhoea, insomnia, constipation, and dizziness.
What it is
a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to fight bacterial infections
What it's used for
for the treatment of a range of infections caused by susceptible bacteria in adults and some children. These include hospital-acquired and community-acquired pneumonia, complicated and uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, chronic bacterial prostatitis, urinary tract infections (both complicated and uncomplicated), acute pyelonephritis, and post-exposure inhalational anthrax and plague.
Common side effects
The most commonly reported side effects (occurring in 3% or more of people) include nausea, headache, diarrhoea, insomnia, constipation, and dizziness. If any of these become severe or do not go away, tell your pharmacist or doctor.
Important cautions
Do not take levofloxacin if you have had an allergic reaction to levofloxacin or any other fluoroquinolone antibiotic. This medicine can cause serious and sometimes irreversible reactions, including tendon damage (especially in the Achilles tendon), nerve problems, severe allergic reactions, and liver injury. If you experience signs of a serious reaction – such as sudden pain or swelling in a joint, tingling or weakness, rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or any unusual symptoms after your first dose – stop taking the medicine and seek medical attention immediately. Avoid taking levofloxacin with certain heart rhythm-affecting medicines (QT prolongation) without your doctor’s approval. Diarrhoea that worsens or does not go away may be a sign of Clostridium difficile infection and should be reported promptly.
Frequently asked questions
What is Levostat (Levofloxacin) used for?
It is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections in adults and some children, such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin infections, chronic bacterial prostatitis, and post-exposure treatment of anthrax and plague.
What are the side effects of Levofloxacin?
Common side effects include nausea, headache, diarrhoea, insomnia, constipation, and dizziness. Serious side effects can occur, such as tendon rupture, nerve damage, allergic reactions, and liver problems – seek medical help if you experience sudden pain, swelling, tingling, rash, or yellowing of the eyes.
Can I buy Levofloxacin without a prescription in Nigeria?
Although the regulatory information indicates that levofloxacin is available without a prescription (OTC) in Nigeria, it is still a potent antibiotic that should be used only under medical guidance. Incorrect use can lead to resistance or serious side effects. Always consult a pharmacist or doctor before use.
How is Levofloxacin taken?
Levofloxacin is usually taken by mouth once a day, with or without food. The dose and duration depend on the infection and your kidney function. Do not crush the tablet. Finish the full course as directed, even if you feel better.
Is Levofloxacin safe for children?
Levofloxacin tablets can be used in children who weigh at least 30 kg (about 66 lb) for certain infections. For smaller children, liquid forms of levofloxacin may be used. Your child’s doctor will determine the correct dose.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
