Levaquin 750 mg

Generic Name: Levofloxacin (oral)

Levaquin (levofloxacin) is in a group of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. Levaquin fights bacteria in the body.
Levaquin is used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, sinuses, kidneys, bladder, or prostate. It is also used to treat bacterial infections that cause bronchitis or pneumonia, and to treat people who have been exposed to anthrax.
Levaquin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information
You should not use Levaquin if you have a history of myasthenia gravis, or if you are allergic to levofloxacin or similar antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro), gemifloxacin (Factive), moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), and others.
Before taking Levaquin, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, muscle weakness or trouble breathing, joint problems, seizures, diabetes, low levels of potassium in your blood, a personal or family history of Long QT syndrome, or if you have ever hadn an allergic reaction to an antibiotic.

Avoid taking antacids, vitamin or mineral supplements, sucralfate (Carafate), or didanosine (Videx) powder or chewable tablets within 2 hours before or after you take Levaquin. Levofloxacin may cause swelling or tearing of a tendon (the fiber that connects bones to muscles in the body), especially in the Achilles' tendon of the heel. These effects may be more likely to occur if you are over 60, if you take steroid medication, or if you have had a kidney, heart, or lung transplant. Stop taking Levaquin and call your doctor at once if you have sudden pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, or movement problems in any of your joints. Rest the joint until you receive medical care or instructions.

Side Effects
The most frequently reported adverse reactions are nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, headache, constipation. Less common side effects include difficulty sleeping, dizziness, rash, flatulence, pain in upper stomach, and itching. Levaquin should be used with caution in patients with central nervous system disease. Allergic reactions such as hives and anaphylaxis are also possible.