Levoquin 500 Mg
What is Levoquin 500 mg
Levoquin 500 mg is an antibiotic primarily used to treat bacterial infections in the body. It is usually effective in treating nose, throat, lungs, skin, and Urinary Tract Infections.
It contains Levofloxacin, a Fluoroquinolone medication manufactured by Cipla Ltd. It blocks the synthesis of the bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, which are essential for bacteria's DNA replication and promote growth. Disrupting these enzymes halts bacterial growth, improving the infection.
Levofloxacin is also effective against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and helps with several respiratory and Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).
Take this medication orally, following the doctor’s instructions, and complete the entire course of the medication. Do not stop the treatment even if your symptoms improve, as it can recur the infection and may cause the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you recall. You can skip the missed Levoquin dose if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the doses, as it can lead to an overdose. Excessive intake may cause severe side effects such as dizziness, seizures, or irregular heartbeats, which require a doctor’s assistance to resolve.
What are the benefits of taking Levoquin 500 mg
Levofloxacin, the active ingredient in the Levoquin medication, inhibits the bacteria's DNA replication process by halting certain replication enzymes.
This mechanism provides Levoquin 500 mg benefits, such as:
- Bacterial infection treatment: Levofloxacin is known for its broad-spectrum antibiotic properties to treat bacterial sinus infections, certain anthrax infections, and prostate and plague infections. It also treats infections of the skin, kidney, or bladder.
- Respiratory tract infection care: It is also beneficial in treating lung infections, such as Pneumonia and chronic Bronchitis.
- Urinary tract infection relief: It is also used to treat UTIs, including Pyrelonephritis.
How to take Levoquin 500 mg
Levoquin is a prescription medicine that should be taken in the dose and duration your doctor administers. Follow the general guidelines for its usage:
- Take the Levoquin tablets at a fixed time for a consistent regime.
- Swallow the tablet as a whole; do not crush, break, chew, or split it.
- Take Levoquin with or without food.
- Take 1 tablet in 24 hours. Do not take more than the recommended dose.
Strengths and Substitutes
Levoquin is available in a 250 mg lower strength. Additionally, its substitutes are affordable at Cheap Medicine Shop.
$1.5 per 10 pills |
What are the side effects of taking Levoquin 500 mg
Just like other medicines, Levoquin can cause mild side effects. These are temporary and disappear when your body adjusts to the dosage.
The common Levoquin 500 mg side effects include:
- Constipation
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Insomnia
Consult your healthcare professional if these continue to cause you discomfort or worsen.
Safety Advice
Liver disease
Use Levoquin 500 tablets cautiously in patients with liver conditions. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended, so consult your doctor.
Kidney impairment
Use Levoquin with caution in patients with kidney impairment. Since the medicine is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, dose adjustments may be needed; hence, consult a doctor.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women
Levoquin 500 mg is not safe to use in pregnant women due to risks to the unborn child. Nursing women should avoid taking it due to limited information. Hence, consult a doctor.
Avoid
There is no direct interaction reported between the Levoquin 500 tablets and alcohol. However, take precautions and avoid consuming alcohol for better health.
FAQs
What should be avoided while taking Levoquin 500 mg tablet?
Do not consume dairy products such as yogurt, milk, cheese, or ice cream when taking Levoquin. Taking them together could cause complications. Consult with your doctor regarding the food and drinks to avoid for effective and safe usage.
Can I take Levoquin 500 tablets with antacids?
No, you should not take Levoquin with antacids containing magnesium, aluminum, calcium, iron, or zinc. These antacids can interfere with the medicine’s absorption and reduce its effects. If you need to take it, take the medicine at least 2 hours before or after consuming antacids.
Can the use of Levoquin tablets increase the risk of muscle damage?
Yes, Levoquin tablets can increase the risk of muscle damage, particularly in the ankle. This muscle damage condition can happen to anyone who takes this medicine regardless of age; the Elderly, especially those over the age of 60, are more at risk of getting it. Hence, consult your doctor.
Who should not take Levoquin 500 tablets?
Avoid taking Levoquin tablets if you are allergic to Levofloxacin or its components. Patients with seizure disorders, tendon issues, or Myasthenia gravis (a chronic autoimmune condition) should also exercise caution. It is not intended for use in individuals under 18 years of age. Hence, consult your doctor for alternatives.
Can Levoquin 500 cause Hypokalemia?
Yes, the Levoquin 500 tablets can cause Hypokalemia (low potassium levels) as a side effect. They may also cause severe heart rhythm conditions, which are mainly observed in patients with low potassium levels. Hence, consult your doctor and inform them about all medical conditions for safe use.