Levaquin

Description

Drug Uses

Levaquin is used for treatment of infections caused by certain bacteria. It may also be used to prevent or slow anthrax after exposure.

How Taken

Use Levaquin as directed by your doctor. Drinking extra fluids while you are taking Levaquin is recommended. Levaquin works best if it is used at the same time each day. To clear up your infection completely, use Levaquin for the full course of treatment. Keep using it even if you feel better in a few days.

Warnings/Precautions

Before taking Levaquin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances, if you are allergic to any ingredient in Levaquin, if you or a family member have a history of fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, angina, or heart attack, if you have other heart problems (eg, heart failure, enlarged heart), diabetes, kidney problems, tendon problems (eg, inflammation), or Alzheimer disease, have narrowed or hardened blood vessels in the brain, increased pressure in the brain, nervous system problems, or a history of seizures (eg, epilepsy), if you sunburn easily or you will be in the sun for a prolonged period of time, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast–feeding. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Levaquin while you are pregnant. Levaquin is found in breast milk. Do not breast–feed while taking Levaquin. Some medicines may interact with Levaquin. Therefore tell your doctor of all prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement that you are taking. Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Levaquin only works against bacteria, it does not treat viral infections (eg, the common cold). Long–term or repeated use of Levaquin may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Tendon problems have been reported with Levaquin. Contact your doctor right away if you develop pain or swelling of a joint or tendon. Levaquin may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Levaquin. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period. If you are scheduled to receive a typhoid vaccine while you are taking Levaquin, talk with your doctor. Levaquin may decrease the effectiveness of the vaccine. Levaquin may affect your blood sugar. Levaquin may interfere with certain lab tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are taking Levaquin. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Levaquin. Levaquin should not be used in children younger than 18 years old, safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. However if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the Missed Dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the Possible Side Effects are– Diarrhea, dizziness, gas, lightheadedness, nausea, stomach pain. Contact your doctor if any of these or other side effects occur. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, you should seek medical attention immediately– allergic reactions, bloody stools, chest pain, confusion, dark urine, decreased or painful urination, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, chills, or sore throat, hallucinations, hoarseness, joint or muscle pain or weakness, mental or mood changes, new or worsening nightmares, restlessness, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin, seizures, severe sunburn, shortness of breath, stomach pain/cramps, suicidal thoughts or actions, symptoms of high or low blood sugar (eg, increased thirst, hunger, or urination, fast breathing, flushing, increased sweating, vision changes), symptoms of nerve problems (eg, unusual pain, burning, tingling, or numbness, changes in perception or heat or cold, decreased sensation of touch), tremors, unusual bruising or bleeding, vaginal discharge, irritation, or odor, wheezing, yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Storage

Store Levaquin as directed by your doctor. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Levaquin out of the reach of children.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected seek medical attention immediately.

More Information

Levaquin may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. These effects may worsen if Levaquin is taken with alcohol or certain other medications. Use Levaquin with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to this drug. If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, contact your doctor. Levaquin should be used only by the patient for whom it has been prescribed. Do not take less or more or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Disclaimer

This is only general information, it does not cover all directions, drug integrations or precautions. You should not rely on it for any purpose, it does not contain any specific instructions for a particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information. We`re not responsible for any damage.