Generic

Levofloxacin

Indications

Levofloxacin eye drops is indicated for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis caused by susceptible strains of the following bacteria:

Aerobic Gram-Positive bacteria–

• Corynebacterium species
• Staphylococcus oureus
• Staphylococcus epidermidis
• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Streptococcus (Groups C/F)
• Streptococcus (Group G)
• Streptococcus viridons group

Aerobic Gram-Negative bacteria–

• Acinetobocter Iwoffii
• Haemophilus influenzae
• Serrotia morcescens

Levofloxacin also provides a promising treatment for other ocular infections including- Bacterial corneal ulcer, Blepharitis, Hordeolum & Perioperative condition.

Pharmacology

In the form of eye drops, levofloxacin is an ophthalmic topical solution. Synthetic, broad spectrum fluoroquinolone bactericidal antibiotic of the third generation, active against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative ocular infections. To do this, it inhibits DNA topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase, two enzymes that are necessary for bacterial transcription, DNA replication, DNA repair and recombination

Dosage & Administration

0.5% eye drop: Adults and children 1 year of age and older:

• Days 1 and 2: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 2 hours while awake, up to 8 times per day.
• Days 3 through 7: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 4 hours while awake, up to 4 times per day.

1.5% eye drop: Adults and children 6 years of age and older:

• Days 1 through 3: Instill one to two drops in the affected eye(s) every 30 minutes to 2 hours while awake and approximately 4 and 6 hours after retiring.
• Day 4 through treatment completion: Instill one to two drops in the affected eye(s) every 1 to 4 hours while awake.

Children <1 year: Safety and effectiveness of Levofloxacin below 1 year of age have not been established.

Interaction

Levofloxacin eye drops have not been the subject of specific medication interaction research. A few quinolones, however, have been demonstrated to increase theophylline plasma concentrations, interact with caffeine metabolism, and enhance the anticoagulant warfarin and its derivatives.

Contraindications

Levofloxacin, other quinolones, or any of its components are contraindicated in patients who have a history of hypersensitivity to the drug.

Side Effects

It is estimated that 1-3 percent of patients will experience side effects such as short-term impaired vision and pharyngitis and photophobia. Included in less than 1 percent of individuals were adverse allergic responses, lid edema, eye dryness, and itching..

Pregnancy & Lactation

It is not recommended to use levofloxacin during pregnancy or breastfeeding, because the effect on the fetus or nursing baby is not clear.

Precautions & Warnings

For example, prolonged use can lead to the growth and spread fungus, which are resistant to the drug. In the event of a superinfection, discontinue the usage of the medication and seek alternate treatment.

Therapeutic Class

4-Quinolone preparations

Storage Conditions

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Pharmaceutical Name

General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.