Leicin
Generic Name
Levofloxacin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
lequin 500 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Leicin 500 mg Tablet contains Levofloxacin, which is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial agent. It is used to treat various bacterial infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 500 mg once daily for 7-14 days, depending on the type and severity of infection.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required based on age alone, but renal function should be assessed.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min). Consult product leaflet for specific guidelines.
How to Take
Leicin 500 mg Tablet should be taken orally, with or without food. It should not be taken within 2 hours of antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, sucralfate, or iron/zinc supplements, as these can reduce absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes necessary for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination, leading to bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1-2 hours of oral administration.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, mainly through glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.
Half life
Approximately 6-8 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are usually attained within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver; less than 5% of the dose is excreted as metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- History of tendinitis or tendon rupture associated with fluoroquinolone use
- Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
- Children and adolescents during the growth phase
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures.
Warfarin
Enhanced anticoagulant effect, leading to increased bleeding risk. Monitor INR closely.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture.
Antiarrhythmics (Class IA and III)
Increased risk of QT prolongation. Avoid co-administration.
Antacids, Sucralfate, Iron/Zinc supplements
Reduced absorption of levofloxacin. Administer at least 2 hours before or after levofloxacin.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include CNS effects (confusion, dizziness, convulsions, tremors), QT prolongation, and gastrointestinal reactions. Treatment involves gastric lavage, symptomatic and supportive care. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing levofloxacin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Levofloxacin is excreted into human breast milk and can cause serious adverse effects in breastfed infants; therefore, breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- History of tendinitis or tendon rupture associated with fluoroquinolone use
- Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
- Children and adolescents during the growth phase
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures.
Warfarin
Enhanced anticoagulant effect, leading to increased bleeding risk. Monitor INR closely.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture.
Antiarrhythmics (Class IA and III)
Increased risk of QT prolongation. Avoid co-administration.
Antacids, Sucralfate, Iron/Zinc supplements
Reduced absorption of levofloxacin. Administer at least 2 hours before or after levofloxacin.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include CNS effects (confusion, dizziness, convulsions, tremors), QT prolongation, and gastrointestinal reactions. Treatment involves gastric lavage, symptomatic and supportive care. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing levofloxacin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Levofloxacin is excreted into human breast milk and can cause serious adverse effects in breastfed infants; therefore, breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of levofloxacin for approved indications across various patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (especially in elderly or renally impaired patients)
- Liver function tests (if prolonged therapy or pre-existing liver conditions)
- Blood glucose monitoring (in diabetic patients due to risk of dysglycemia)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the Black Box Warnings associated with fluoroquinolones, especially regarding tendinitis/tendon rupture and peripheral neuropathy.
- Assess renal function before and during treatment, especially in elderly patients, and adjust dose accordingly.
- Monitor for signs of C. difficile infection if severe diarrhea develops.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if you feel better.
- Stay well-hydrated during treatment.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen, as levofloxacin can increase photosensitivity.
- Report any pain, swelling, or inflammation of tendons immediately to your doctor.
- Do not take antacids or mineral supplements within 2 hours of taking Leicin.
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
Leicin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or visual disturbances. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment if it causes stomach upset.
- Practice good personal hygiene to prevent further infections.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.