LEVOKILZ 500mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is LEVOKILZ 500mg

LEVOKILZ 500mg is a broad-spectrum antibiotic containing the active ingredient Levofloxacin. It belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics and is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Levofloxacin is the L-isomer of ofloxacin, offering enhanced potency and a broader range of antibacterial activity.

Key points about LEVOKILZ 500mg:

• Generic Name: Levofloxacin
• Form: Film-coated tablets
• Strength: 500mg
• Common Uses: Respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, sinusitis, and certain types of gastroenteritis
• Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial DNA replication, leading to bacterial cell death

How to use LEVOKILZ 500mg

Correct usage of LEVOKILZ 500mg ensures maximum effectiveness while minimizing the risk of side effects or bacterial resistance. This antibiotic should always be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Instructions for using LEVOKILZ 500mg:

• Take the tablet whole with a full glass of water; do not crush, chew, or split it.
• It may be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal upset.
• Always maintain consistent timing daily for best results (e.g., every 24 hours if once daily).
• Avoid consuming dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone with the medication as they can interfere with absorption.
• Continue the full course of the antibiotic even if symptoms improve early; stopping early may cause recurrence or resistance.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is near the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.

Mode of Action LEVOKILZ 500mg

LEVOKILZ 500mg acts through a precise bactericidal mechanism that targets bacterial DNA, ultimately leading to the death of the microorganism. This action makes it highly effective against a wide range of bacteria.

Mechanism details:

• Inhibits the activity of bacterial enzymes DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.
• DNA gyrase is essential for supercoiling of bacterial DNA, which is necessary for DNA replication and transcription.
• Topoisomerase IV helps separate replicated DNA strands during bacterial cell division.
• By inhibiting these enzymes, Levofloxacin prevents DNA replication, repair, and transcription, leading to bacterial cell death.
• The bactericidal effect is concentration-dependent, meaning higher concentrations kill bacteria more rapidly and efficiently.

LEVOKILZ 500mg Interactions LEVOKILZ 500mg

LEVOKILZ 500mg can interact with various medications and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It is important to be aware of these interactions to avoid complications.

Potential drug interactions:

• Antacids and Supplements: Magnesium, aluminum, calcium, or iron-containing products can reduce absorption of Levofloxacin. Space doses by at least 2 hours.
• Warfarin: Increased risk of bleeding; monitoring of INR is advised.
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): May enhance central nervous system stimulation and seizure risk.
• Anti-diabetic drugs: Risk of dysglycemia (both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia) when used concurrently.
• Corticosteroids: Increased risk of tendon rupture, particularly in elderly patients.

Dosage of LEVOKILZ 500mg

The dosage of LEVOKILZ 500mg should be tailored to the type of infection, severity, and the patient’s overall health status. Dosage adjustments are often needed for patients with kidney impairment.

Typical dosage recommendations:

• Community-acquired pneumonia: 500mg once daily for 7–14 days.
• Acute sinusitis: 500mg once daily for 10–14 days.
• Chronic bronchitis exacerbations: 500mg once daily for 7 days.
• Urinary tract infections: 500mg once daily for 7–10 days (complicated); 3 days for uncomplicated infections.
• Skin infections: 500mg once or twice daily for 7–14 days.

Important: Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized dosing based on your specific infection and health profile.

Possible side effects of LEVOKILZ 500mg

While LEVOKILZ 500mg is generally well-tolerated, it can cause a range of side effects, some mild and others serious. Awareness and early recognition are key to minimizing risk.

Common side effects:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache and dizziness
• Insomnia

Serious but rare side effects:

• Tendonitis or tendon rupture (particularly Achilles tendon)
• Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling)
• Seizures and central nervous system disturbances
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Photosensitivity (increased risk of sunburn)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious symptoms such as severe muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, or signs of allergic reaction.

LEVOKILZ 500mg Contraindications LEVOKILZ 500mg

Certain conditions make the use of LEVOKILZ 500mg unsafe. Understanding these contraindications helps in safer prescribing and administration.

Contraindications include:

• Known hypersensitivity to Levofloxacin or other quinolones
• History of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use
• Children and adolescents (risk of musculoskeletal disorders)
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding unless the benefits outweigh the risks
• Patients with epilepsy or those predisposed to seizures
• Severe renal impairment without proper dosage adjustment

In such cases, alternative antibiotics with a safer profile are recommended.

Storage of LEVOKILZ 500mg

Proper storage of LEVOKILZ 500mg ensures that the medication maintains its efficacy and safety throughout its shelf life.

Storage guidelines:

• Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F).
• Keep the tablets in their original blister pack until ready to use to protect from moisture and light.
• Do not freeze or expose to excessive heat.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use the medicine past the expiration date indicated on the package.

Discard any unused tablets responsibly according to local regulations.