by Dr Pandula Siribaddana

Created on: April 18, 2010

What is Levaquin?

Levaquin is an antibiotic which contains the active ingredient Levofloxacin. It belongs to the group of antibiotics known as Fluoroquinolones and is shown to be effective against infections in the skin, sinuses, kidney, bladder and in the prostate. Apart from these, bacterial infections of the lungs such as pneumonia and bronchitis have also shown to be responding to Levaquin in most occasions.

Allergic reactions

When discussing about the side effects of Levaquin, allergic reactions should be given prominence as it can be seen in certain number of individuals although it isn’t considered as a common side effect. But, the development of a skin rash of any sort following taking Levofloxacin should prompt the possibility of an allergic reaction and this should warrant seeking medical attention as soon as possible. But, in certain instances, there may be other symptoms such as itching, hives, lip and facial swelling, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, lightheadedness…etc and these would supplement the possibility of an allergic reaction.

The group effect

Levofloxacin will show a similarity to certain other antibiotics of the same group such as ofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin…etc. Therefore, some of the side effects as well as reactions would be the same for any of these antibiotics. The importance of this would be in case of allergic reactions, if a person is allergic to one antibiotic there is a likelihood of him being allergic to another antibiotic of the same group.

Other side effects to be considered serious

Apart from these, certain other side effects should also be taken in as serious and some of these are, sudden occurrence of a swelling near a joint, easy bruising and bleeding in the skin, nose, rectum or else from the vagina, watery diarrhea which sometimes be blood stained, neurological manifestations such as confusion, abnormal behaviors, hallucinations, seizures…etc.

Sometimes, there can be manifestations of liver failure such as yellowing of the skin and the sclera of the eyes, itching of the skin, dark colored urine, fever and weaknesses.

In certain instances, the appearance of skin blistering, peeling and reddening should also be taken in seriously and would warrant a call to your doctor.

Milder side effects

Finally, some of the manifestations of Levaquin would be considered as only milder side effects and these would range from nausea, headache, dizziness, muscle pain, sleep problems, mild itching, diarrhea or constipation…etc.

Conclusion

As with most other antibiotics, there can be many uses, reactions, interaction, side effects as well as many other precautions in taking this drug. As such, manufacturer literature would be the most informative source for anyone to refer in order to get a more detailed and accurate picture of these drugs.

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