Lequin
Generic Name
Levofloxacin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| lequin 05 eye drop | ৳ 80.00 | N/A |
| lequin 500 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Lequin (Levofloxacin) is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial agent of the fluoroquinolone class, active against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It is used to treat various bacterial infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 250 mg to 750 mg once daily, depending on the infection type and severity. For most common infections, 500 mg once daily for 7-14 days.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is needed based solely on age, but renal function should be assessed and dosage adjusted accordingly.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is necessary for patients with creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min. For CrCl 20-49 mL/min, 250 mg every 48 hours; for CrCl 10-19 mL/min, 250 mg initially, then 125 mg every 48 hours.
How to Take
Oral tablets can be taken with or without food. Ensure adequate hydration.
Mechanism of Action
Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes necessary for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. This leads to cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antibacterial effects usually begin within hours, with peak plasma concentrations reached 1-2 hours post-dose.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine (approximately 87% within 48 hours).
Half life
Approximately 6-8 hours, extending in patients with renal impairment.
Absorption
Rapid and nearly complete absorption after oral administration; bioavailability is approximately 99%.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- History of tendinitis or tendon rupture associated with fluoroquinolone use
- Epilepsy
- Children and adolescents (due to risk of cartilage damage)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
May increase the risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures when co-administered with fluoroquinolones.
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendinopathy and tendon rupture.
Antacids (containing magnesium or aluminum), Sucralfate, Iron/Zinc supplements
May reduce oral absorption of levofloxacin if taken concurrently. Administer levofloxacin at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after these agents.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In the event of an acute overdose, the stomach should be emptied. The patient should be observed and given supportive treatment. Hydration should be maintained. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing levofloxacin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother. Alternatives may be preferred.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- History of tendinitis or tendon rupture associated with fluoroquinolone use
- Epilepsy
- Children and adolescents (due to risk of cartilage damage)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
May increase the risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures when co-administered with fluoroquinolones.
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendinopathy and tendon rupture.
Antacids (containing magnesium or aluminum), Sucralfate, Iron/Zinc supplements
May reduce oral absorption of levofloxacin if taken concurrently. Administer levofloxacin at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after these agents.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In the event of an acute overdose, the stomach should be emptied. The patient should be observed and given supportive treatment. Hydration should be maintained. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing levofloxacin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother. Alternatives may be preferred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
FDA and DGDA approved
Patent Status
Generic available, patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of levofloxacin for approved indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (especially in elderly or renally impaired patients)
- Blood glucose monitoring (in diabetic patients due to risk of dysglycemia)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize black box warnings regarding tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and CNS effects.
- Adjust dose for renal impairment.
- Counsel patients on completing the full course and reporting adverse events.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve.
- Stay well-hydrated during treatment.
- Avoid excessive sunlight or artificial UV light, as fluoroquinolones can increase photosensitivity.
- Do not take antacids, iron/zinc supplements, or sucralfate within 2 hours of taking Lequin.
- Report any pain or swelling in tendons, numbness, tingling, or weakness in extremities immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Lequin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or visual disturbances. Patients should be advised to know how they react to Lequin before driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Ensure adequate rest to aid recovery.
- Follow a balanced diet.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Lequin Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
