Levofloxacin - Inhalation


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Levofloxacin is an antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the lungs caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria in patients with cystic fibrosis (a disease that causes thick, sticky mucus build up in the lungs).
How do I use this medicine?
Use Levofloxacin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Levofloxacin is available as a nebulising solution, to be used with a machine called a nebuliser.

Make sure you know how to use the specific device or machine you have been given. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to use it.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection.
What should I do if I have forgotten to use this medicine?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember providing that there is at least 8 hours interval before your next dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • epilepsy (fits or seizure)
  • history of tendon problems related to antibiotic use
as Levofloxacin may not be suitable for you.

Do not use Levofloxacin if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon. If you become pregnant while being treated with this medicine, alert your doctor immediately. Levofloxacin may cause harm to your unborn child.

Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with this medicine.

Do not use this medicine if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to similar antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, lomefloxacin, moxifloxacin, nalidixic acid, norfloxacin, and ofloxacin.
What should I take note of while using this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • heart problems
  • diabetes
  • G6PD deficiency (an inherited blood disorder that affects the red blood cell)
  • mental illness or history of mental illness
  • rheumatoid arthritis (an inflammation in joints of fingers, wrist, feet, ankles)
  • other severe diseases
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Levofloxacin to a child or elderly. Children and elderly may be more sensitive to the side effects.

If you are going for a drug test, inform the person that will screen you that you are taking this medicine.
What side effects could I experience?
Levofloxacin may cause dizziness with or without spinning sensation, tiredness, and visual disturbances. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.

Other side effects include any of the following: cough with phlegm, lack of energy, changes in taste, increased sweating, loss of appetite, nervousness, and involuntary movements.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
  • breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes
  • severe rash with peeling of the skin or blistering of the lips, mouth or eyes accompanied by fever
  • fever with persistent sore throat or mouth ulcers, unusual bleeding or bruising
  • tightness and feeling of constriction in the chest and back, wheezing when inhaling, difficulty breathing
  • pale or greyish skin color
  • faintness or passing out
  • pain, stiffness and/or swelling in your joints
  • fast heartbeat
  • stomach pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools
  • severe diarrhoea, dehydration, stomach cramps and pain
Levofloxacin may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I use this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking/using any of these medicines:
  • medicines for pain and/or inflammation e.g. ibuprofen, celecoxib, prednisone
  • medicines used in organ transplant or certain immune disorders e.g. ciclosporin
  • medicines for stomach problems e.g. sucralfate, cimetidine
  • theophylline (asthma medicine)
  • probenecid (medicine for gout)
  • other antibiotics e.g. erythromycin, clarithromycin
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Levofloxacin.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on Levofloxacin - Inhalation and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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