Generic Levaquin (levofloxacin) is an antibiotic used for the treatment of infections suspected to be caused by pathogenic bacteria.
The ingredient levofloxacin belongs to the class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. Other antibacterial drugs belonging to fluoroquinolones include ciprofloxacin (Cipro), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), trovafloxacin (Trovan), and lomefloxacin (Maxaquin).
This antibiotic stops the multiplication or proliferation of bacteria by preventing the reproduction and repair of their genetic material, DNA, according to Medicine Net.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved levofloxacin on December 20, 1996. Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a pharmaceutical company headquartered in Beerse, Belgium, and owned by Johnson & Johnson, develops the brand Levaquin.
Generic Levaquin is indicated for:
- Bacterial infections of the sinuses, skin, lungs, ears, airways, bones, and joints
- Urinary tract infections and prostatitis
- Infectious diarrhea caused by E. coli, Campylobacter jejuni, and Shigella bacteria
- Obstetric infections, including bacterial infection of the breast
Dosage
Generic Levaquin tablets are available in 250 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg dosages. The dose is administered orally every 24 hours, or as directed by a physician. It is important to follow dosage instructions as advised by your doctors because this antibiotic is given in different dosages in different patients. For instance, dosage precautions are taken in patients with liver or kidney disease.
Make sure you use Generic Levaquin exactly as advised by your doctor. More importantly, complete the full course of treatment with this antibiotic. You must take this medicine for the full prescribed duration even if you feel better in a day or two. Underuse, misuse, or overuse of Generic Levaquin could lead to antibiotic resistance.
Cost
Generally, levofloxacin is a moderately expensive antibiotic than other drugs. The drug comes in both generic and brand versions. Generic Levaquin is also covered by most Medicare and insurance plans, according to GoodRx. The lowest price of Generic Levaquin 500 mg is around $3.70 for 10 tablets, which is 96% cheaper than the branded version that costs $116 for the same number of tablets.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Generic Levaquin may include nausea, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness or lightheadedness, or trouble sleeping. If any of these side effects worsen or persist, tell your prescribing doctor right away. Most people who use this antibiotic do not experience any serious side effects.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious side effects such as urinary troubles, abdominal pain, chest pain, extreme dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat, or shortness of breath. People allergic to levofloxacin should not use brand or even Generic Levaquin.
Precautions
Before taking Generic Levaquin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any antibiotics; tell your doctor your medical history, especially if you have diabetes, kidney problems, or liver dysfunction; tell your doctor if you are undergoing any treatment because certain drugs adversely interact with levofloxacin.
During treatment, some people with diabetes may notice changes in their blood sugar levels. So, they should check their blood sugar regularly during treatment. Mild dizziness is one of the common side effects of fluoroquinolones so make sure you avoid alcohol and other substances that can make you dizzy; also avoid driving or operating machinery. Generic Levaquin may make you more sensitive to the sun so limit your time in the sun and avoid tanning booths or sunlamps. Make sure you use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when you go outdoors. Discuss with your doctor whether this antibiotic is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
