Levofloxacin: what it treats and how to use it safely
Got a prescription for levofloxacin and wondering what to expect? Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for several infections—like pneumonia, certain sinus and skin infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by stopping bacteria from reproducing. That makes it powerful, but also one you should respect.
Here are the basics you need right now: typical adult doses are 500 mg once daily for many infections and 750 mg once daily for more serious lung infections. Your doctor will adjust the dose if you have kidney problems. Always follow the exact dose and length of treatment they give you. Stopping early can let bacteria come back and become resistant.
Common side effects and red flags
Minor side effects include nausea, headache, and diarrhea. More serious reactions can happen and need quick attention. Watch for sudden tendon pain, swelling, or weakness—levofloxacin can cause tendonitis and even tendon rupture. Also be aware of numbness or tingling in hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy), severe dizziness, or new mood changes. If you notice chest pain, fainting, or very fast/irregular heartbeat, get medical help—levofloxacin can affect heart rhythm (QT prolongation) in some people.
How to take it, and drug interactions
Take levofloxacin as your prescriber told you. You can take it with or without food. But keep it away from mineral-containing products: antacids, sucralfate, multivitamins with iron or zinc, and calcium supplements can lower how much antibiotic your body absorbs. Take those products 2 hours before or 2 hours after levofloxacin.
Also tell your doctor if you take blood thinners, certain diabetes drugs, or other meds that affect heart rhythm. If you have a history of seizures, low potassium, or myasthenia gravis, mention it—this drug can make these worse.
Kids and pregnancy: levofloxacin is usually avoided in growing children because of joint and cartilage risks, and it’s not a first choice in pregnancy unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Your clinician will choose the safest option for you.
Short, practical tips: finish the full course unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or confused. Store tablets at room temperature, away from moisture. If you miss one dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next dose—don’t double up.
Antibiotic resistance matters. Only use levofloxacin when a doctor prescribes it for a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection. If symptoms don’t improve within a few days or you get worse, call your doctor. If you get any serious side effects, stop the drug and seek medical help right away.
Have questions about your prescription or interactions with other drugs you take? Ask your pharmacist or prescriber—clearly. They’ll help you use levofloxacin safely and effectively.
