levofloxacin (cont.)
NURSING MOTHERS: Levofloxacin is not recommended for use in lactating
women because of the likelihood that, like other fluoroquinolones, levofloxacin
is excreted in breast-milk.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequently reported side events are nausea or
vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and constipation. Less common side effects include
difficulty sleeping, dizziness, abdominal pain, rash, abdominal gas, and
itching.
Rare allergic reactions have been described, such as hives and anaphylaxis
(shock). Levofloxacin should be used with caution in patients with central
nervous system diseases such as seizures, because rare seizures have been
reported in patients receiving levofloxacin. Levofloxacin should be avoided in
children and adolescents less than 18 years of age, as safe use in these
patients has not been established.
Levofloxacin as well as other antibiotics in the fluoroquinolone class of
antibiotics, has been associated with
tendinitis and even rupture of tendons,
particularly the Achilles tendon. Many antibiotics, including levofloxacin, can
alter the normal bacteria in the colon and encourage overgrowth of a bacterium
responsible for the development of inflammation of the colon, (C. difficile or
pseudomembranous colitis). Patients who develop signs of pseudomembranous
colitis after starting levofloxacin (diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and
possibly shock) should contact their physician immediately. Patients taking
levofloxacin can develop sensitivity of the skin to direct sunlight
(photosensitivity) and should avoid exposure to sunlight or use sunblock.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 12/15/2008
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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