Quilev
Generic Name
Levofloxacin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
quilev 500 mg tablet | ৳ 15.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levofloxacin is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial agent of the fluoroquinolone class, active against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 250 mg, 500 mg, or 750 mg orally once daily, depending on the indication and severity of infection, for 5-14 days.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment for elderly patients based on age alone, but renal function should be assessed and dose adjusted if needed.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is necessary for patients with creatinine clearance <50 mL/min. Reduced dose or extended dosing interval may be required.
How to Take
Oral tablets can be taken with or without food. IV solution should be administered slowly over 60-90 minutes.
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV, enzymes required for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. This leads to DNA damage and bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies depending on the infection type and severity; generally within hours for antibacterial effect.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, with a small amount excreted in feces.
Half life
Approximately 6 to 8 hours.
Absorption
Rapid and almost complete absorption from the gastrointestinal tract; bioavailability is approximately 99%.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- History of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone administration
- Epilepsy
- Children and adolescents (due to risk of arthropathy)
Drug Interactions
0
Antacids (containing magnesium or aluminum), sucralfate, metal cations (iron, zinc): Reduce absorption of levofloxacin; administer 2 hours before or 2 hours after.
1
Warfarin: May enhance anticoagulant effects, requiring INR monitoring.
2
Corticosteroids: Increased risk of tendon rupture when co-administered.
3
NSAIDs: May increase CNS stimulation and seizure risk.
Storage
Store at room temperature (below 30°C), protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze oral solution.
Overdose
In case of acute overdose, gastric emptying (e.g., gastric lavage) and general supportive measures should be implemented. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing levofloxacin from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Levofloxacin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in human milk; avoid during breastfeeding or discontinue the drug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by FDA/DGDA
Patent Status
Patent expired (generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Levofloxacin has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various bacterial infections. Post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor rare adverse events.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, creatinine clearance)
- Liver function tests (e.g., ALT, AST) if liver dysfunction suspected
- Blood glucose monitoring in diabetic patients
- INR monitoring if co-administered with warfarin
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on serious adverse reactions associated with fluoroquinolones, especially tendinitis, tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and CNS effects.
- Avoid in patients with a history of myasthenia gravis, as it can exacerbate muscle weakness.
- Monitor for QT prolongation in patients at risk.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor and complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better.
- Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication early.
- Stay well hydrated during treatment to prevent crystalluria.
- Avoid excessive sunlight or artificial UV light, as fluoroquinolones can increase sun sensitivity.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or vision changes. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration.
- Use sun protection (e.g., sunscreen, protective clothing) when outdoors due to increased photosensitivity.
- Avoid strenuous exercise that could stress tendons during treatment.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.