What is levofloxacin used for? 

Bactrim is a broad antibiotic that can  be used for a variety of infections, but is typically used for: 

• Pneumonia 

• Urinary tract infection

• Pelvic inflammatory disease

• Urethritis 

What are the most common side effects seen with levofloxacin? 

• Musculoskeletal 

  • arthralgia, arthritis, tendinopathy, and gait abnormality

• Other

  • nausea, headache, diarrhea, insomnia, constipation and dizziness

Contraindications

Levofloxacin shouldn’t be taken if your child has had an anaphylactic reaction (hives or swelling of the tongue) to levofloxacin or any medication similar to levofloxacin (ex: ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, gatifloxacin, moxifloxacin). 

Tips & Tricks to administer levofloxacin

If your child is having difficulty taking levofloxacin  (liquid or tablets), it can be mixed in some foods or beverages. Please keep in mind that if a medication is mixed with food or drink, it should be taken immediately. The mixture should not be saved or consumed later.

• Tablets can be mixed with any food or beverage based on the child's preference

• Oral Solution (Liquid) should not be mixed with any food or beverage

How to store ciprofloxacin

• Levofloxacin tablets and oral solution should be stored at room temperature. 

Breast feeding considerations 

• Levofloxacin can be present in breast milk if being taken by the mother. 

• In some cases, the nursing infant can experience diarrhea from the levofloxacin in breast milk. 

• Before taking levofloxacin, notify your doctor that you are breastfeeding so you can discuss the risks vs. benefits to taking ciprofloxacin. 

The information in this database regarding prescription drugs is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interaction or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. See disclaimer.