Lexa
Generic Name
Levofloxacin 500 mg
Manufacturer
Hypothetical Pharma Co.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
lexa 500 mg tablet | ৳ 15.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Lexa 500 mg Tablet is an antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone group. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including those of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, and soft tissues. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dose is 500 mg once daily for 7-14 days depending on the infection. For some infections, 750 mg once daily may be used.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required based solely on age, but renal function should be assessed.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment necessary for creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min (e.g., 250 mg once daily for mild-moderate impairment, 250 mg every 48 hours for severe impairment).
How to Take
Lexa 500 mg Tablet should be swallowed whole with water, with or without food. Do not crush or chew. Take at around the same time each day.
Mechanism of Action
Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV, essential enzymes involved in bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. This leads to bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement typically seen within 24-48 hours.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion, mainly as unchanged drug in urine.
Half life
Approximately 6-8 hours.
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver; primarily excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, other quinolones, or any component of the formulation
- Patients with a history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders
- Patients with a history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone administration
- Children and adolescents (under 18 years of age)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
May increase the risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures.
Warfarin
May enhance anticoagulant effects. Monitor INR.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendon rupture.
Antidiabetic agents (e.g., insulin, glyburide)
May cause dysglycemia (hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia). Monitor blood glucose.
Antacids (magnesium, aluminum), sucralfate, iron supplements, multivitamins containing zinc
Reduce absorption of levofloxacin. Administer levofloxacin 2 hours before or 2 hours after these agents.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include central nervous system symptoms (e.g., confusion, dizziness, seizures), prolonged QT interval, and GI disturbances. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage and hydration may be helpful. 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. Excreted in breast milk, so caution is advised; potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, other quinolones, or any component of the formulation
- Patients with a history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders
- Patients with a history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone administration
- Children and adolescents (under 18 years of age)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
May increase the risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures.
Warfarin
May enhance anticoagulant effects. Monitor INR.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendon rupture.
Antidiabetic agents (e.g., insulin, glyburide)
May cause dysglycemia (hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia). Monitor blood glucose.
Antacids (magnesium, aluminum), sucralfate, iron supplements, multivitamins containing zinc
Reduce absorption of levofloxacin. Administer levofloxacin 2 hours before or 2 hours after these agents.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include central nervous system symptoms (e.g., confusion, dizziness, seizures), prolonged QT interval, and GI disturbances. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage and hydration may be helpful. 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. Excreted in breast milk, so caution is advised; potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available (Patent expired)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of levofloxacin for approved indications. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (for patients with impaired renal function)
- Liver function tests (if signs of hepatotoxicity develop)
- Blood glucose (especially in diabetic patients or those taking antidiabetic agents)
- INR (for patients on warfarin)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize black box warnings regarding tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and CNS effects.
- Counsel patients on potential for dysglycemia, especially in diabetics.
- Ensure complete course adherence to prevent resistance.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of antibiotic, even if symptoms improve.
- Stay well-hydrated.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Report any tendon pain, swelling, or weakness immediately.
- Do not take antacids, iron, or zinc supplements within 2 hours of this medication.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or visual disturbances. Patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery or driving until they are reasonably certain that the drug does not adversely affect them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Balanced diet and regular exercise may support recovery.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.