Orgalev
Generic Name
Levofloxacin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
orgalev 500 mg tablet | ৳ 15.05 | ৳ 150.50 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levofloxacin is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial agent of the fluoroquinolone class. It is used to treat various bacterial infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
250 mg to 750 mg once daily, depending on the infection. For 500 mg, typically 500 mg once daily for 7-14 days.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is generally required unless renal function is impaired.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment needed based on creatinine clearance (e.g., lower dose or extended interval for CrCl < 50 mL/min).
How to Take
Orally, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a sufficient amount of liquid.
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, essential enzymes for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies by infection type, generally within hours to days for clinical improvement.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in urine, mainly by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.
Half life
Approx 6-8 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration. Bioavailability approx 99%. Peak plasma concentrations within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver (less than 5% of a dose).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones.
- Patients with a history of epilepsy.
- Patients with a history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone administration.
- Children and growing adolescents.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (generally).
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
May increase the risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures.
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect, requiring monitoring of INR.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendon rupture when co-administered with fluoroquinolones.
Antidiabetic agents (e.g., insulin, glyburide)
Can cause dysglycemia (hypo- or hyperglycemia), requiring blood glucose monitoring.
Antacids (containing magnesium, aluminum), Sucralfate, Iron supplements, Multivitamins (containing zinc)
Can reduce levofloxacin absorption. Administer levofloxacin at least 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 may include CNS symptoms (confusion, hallucinations, tremors, seizures), increased QTc prolongation. Management involves gastric lavage, supportive care, and hydration. Hemodialysis is not effective.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Excreted in human milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug due to potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones.
- Patients with a history of epilepsy.
- Patients with a history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone administration.
- Children and growing adolescents.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (generally).
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
May increase the risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures.
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect, requiring monitoring of INR.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendon rupture when co-administered with fluoroquinolones.
Antidiabetic agents (e.g., insulin, glyburide)
Can cause dysglycemia (hypo- or hyperglycemia), requiring blood glucose monitoring.
Antacids (containing magnesium, aluminum), Sucralfate, Iron supplements, Multivitamins (containing zinc)
Can reduce levofloxacin absorption. Administer levofloxacin at least 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 may include CNS symptoms (confusion, hallucinations, tremors, seizures), increased QTc prolongation. Management involves gastric lavage, supportive care, and hydration. Hemodialysis is not effective.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Excreted in human milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug due to potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated efficacy and safety in various bacterial infections. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor safety.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (creatinine clearance) in patients with kidney impairment.
- Blood glucose in diabetic patients, especially when co-administered with antidiabetic agents.
- INR for patients on warfarin.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients about the black box warnings, particularly tendon rupture and peripheral neuropathy.
- Assess renal function before and during treatment, especially in elderly patients.
- Monitor for signs of dysglycemia in diabetic patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent crystalluria.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure due to photosensitivity.
- Report any tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation immediately.
- Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
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 good hydration.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity if experiencing tendon discomfort.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.