Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.
Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.
The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.
If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Levofloxacin hemihydrate may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.
for
The name of your medicine is Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion. Levofloxacin belongs to a group of medicines called antibiotics. Levofloxacin is a "quinolone" antibiotic. It works by killing the bacteria that cause infections in your body. Levofloxacin is used in adults to treat infections of the: • • • •
Lungs, in people with pneumonia Urinary tract, including your kidneys or bladder Prostate gland, where you have a long lasting infection Skin and underneath the skin, including muscles. This is sometimes called "soft tissue".
In some special situations, levofloxacin may be used to lessen the chances of getting a pulmonary disease named anthrax or worsening of the disease after you are exposed to the bacteria causing anthrax.
2.
Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion
You should not be given Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion •
• • • • •
if you are allergic to levofloxacin, any other quinolone antibiotic such as moxifloxacin, ciprofloxacin or orfloxacin or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6) Signs of an allergic reaction include: a rash, swallowing or breathing problems, swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue if you have ever had epilepsy if you have ever had tendon problems such as tendinitis that was related to treatment with a "quinolone antibiotic". A tendon is a cord that joins your muscle to your skeleton if you are a child or a growing teenager if you are pregnant, might become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant if you are breast-feeding.
Do not take this medicine if any of the above applies to you. If you are not sure, talk to your doctor or
pharmacist before you are given this medicine. Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before you are given Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion: • if you have been diagnosed with an enlargement or "bulge" of a large blood vessel (aortic aneurysm or large vessel peripheral aneurysm) • if you have experienced a previous episode of aortic dissection (a tear in the aorta wall) • if you have been diagnosed with leaking heart valves (heart valve regurgitation) • if you have a family history of aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection or congenital heart valve disease, or other risk factors or predisposing conditions (e.g. connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Turner syndrome, Sjögren's syndrome [an inflammatory autoimmune disease], or vascular disorders such as Takayasu arteritis, giant cell arteritis, Behcet's disease, high blood pressure, or known atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis [a disease of the joints] or endocarditis [an infection of the heart]). • if you are 60 years of age or older • if you are using corticosteroids, sometimes called steroids (see section "Other medicines and Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion") • if you have ever had a fit (seizure) • if you have had damage to your brain due to a stroke or other brain injury • if you have kidney problems • if you have something known as 'glucose – 6 – phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency'. You are more likely to have serious problems with your blood when taking this medicine • if you have ever had mental health problems • if you have ever had heart problems: caution should be taken when using this kind of medicine, if you were born with or have family history of prolonged QT interval (seen on ECG, electrical recording of the heart), have salt imbalance in the blood (especially low level of potassium or magnesium in the blood), have a very slow heart rhythm (called 'bradycardia'), have a weak heart (heart failure), have a history of heart attack (myocardial infarction), you are female or elderly or you are taking other medicines that result in abnormal ECG changes (see section "Other medicines and Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion") • if you are diabetic • if you have ever had liver problems • if you have myasthenia gravis. • if you have ever developed a severe skin rash or skin peeling, blistering and/or mouth sores after taking levofloxacin. If you feel sudden, severe pain in your abdomen, chest or back, which can be symptoms of aortic aneurysm and dissection, go immediately to an emergency room. Your risk may be increased if you are being treated with systemic corticosteroids. If you start experiencing a rapid onset of shortness of breath, especially when you lie down flat in your bed, or you notice swelling of your ankles, feet or abdomen, or a new onset of heart palpitations (sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeat), you should inform a doctor immediately. If you are not sure if any of the above applies to you, talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before being given this medicine. Before you are given this medicine You should not be given fluoroquinolone/quinolone antibacterial medicines, including Levofloxacin, if you have experienced any serious adverse reaction in the past when taking a quinolone or fluoroquinolone. In this situation, you should inform your doctor as soon as possible. When taking this medicine
Fluoroquinolone/quinolone antibacterial medicines, including Levofloxacin 5mg/ml solution for infusion, have been associated with rare but serious side effects, some of them being long lasting (continuing for months or years), disabling or potentially irreversible. This includes tendon, muscle and joint pain of the upper and lower limbs, difficulty in walking, abnormal sensations such as pins and needles, tingling, tickling, numbness or burning (paraesthesia), sensory disorders including impairment of vision, taste and smell, and hearing, mental health effects which may include, but are not necessarily limited to, anxiety, panic attacks, confusion, or depression, memory impairment, severe fatigue, and severe sleep disorders. There are no medicines that have been established as being effective treatments for the symptoms of long lasting or disabling side effects associated with fluoroquinolones. If you experience any of these side effects after taking Levofloxacin 5mg/ml solution for infusion, then do not take any further doses and contact your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will decide on whether to continue treatment, considering alternative options.
If you develop a serious rash or another of these skin symptoms, stop taking levofloxacin and contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately. Other medicines and Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. This is because levofloxacin can affect the way some other medicines work. Also some medicines can affect the way levofloxacin works. In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines. This is because it can increase the chance of you getting side effects, when taken with levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion: • Corticosteroids, sometimes called steroids – used for inflammation. You may be more likely to have inflammation and/or rupture of your tendons. • Warfarin – used to thin the blood. You may be more likely to have a bleed. Your doctor may need to take regular blood tests to check how well your blood can clot. • Theophylline – used for breathing problems. You are more likely to have a fit (seizure) if taken with levofloxacin. • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) – used for pain and inflammation such as aspirin, ibuprofen, fenbufen, ketoprofen, indomethacin. You are more likely to have a fit (seizure) if taken with levofloxacin. • Ciclosporin – used after organ transplants. You may be more likely to get the side effects of ciclosporin. • Medicines known to affect the way your heart beats. This includes medicines used for abnormal heart rhythm (antiarrhythmics such as quinidine, hydroquinidine, disopyramide, sotalol, dofetilide, ibutilide and amiodarone), for depression (tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and imipramine), for psychiatric disorders (antipsychotics), and for bacterial infections ('macrolide' antibiotics such as erythromycin, azithromycine and clarithromycin). • Probenecid – used for gout and cimetidine – used for ulcers and heartburn. Special care should be taken when taking either of these medicines with levofloxacin. If you have kidney problems, your doctor may want to give you a lower dose. Urine tests for opiates Urine tests may show 'false-positive' results for strong painkillers called 'opiates' in people having Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion. If your doctor has prescribed a urine test, tell your doctor you are having Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion. Tuberculosis tests This medicine may cause "false negative" results for some tests used in laboratory to search for the bacteria causing tuberculosis. Pregnancy and breast-feeding Do not have this medicine if: • You are pregnant, might become pregnant or think that you may be pregnant • You are breastfeeding or planning to breast-feed Driving and using machines You may get side effects after taking this medicine, including feeling dizzy, sleepy, a spinning feeling (vertigo) or changes to your eyesight. Some of these side effects can affect you being able to concentrate and your reaction speed. If this happens, do not drive or carry out any work that requires a high level of attention. Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion contains sodium chloride (salt) This medicine contains 354.2 mg sodium (main component of cooking/table salt) per 100 ml. This is equivalent to 17.71% of the recommended maximum daily dietary intake of sodium for an adult.
3.
How Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is given
How Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is given • Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is a medicine for use in hospitals • It will be given to you by a doctor or nurse as an injection. The injection will be into one of your veins, and be given over a period of time (this is called an intravenous injection). • For 250 mg of Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion, the infusion time should be 30 minutes or more • For 500 mg of Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion, the infusion time should be 60 minutes or more. • Your heart rate and blood pressure should be closely monitored. This is because an unusual fast beating of the heart and a temporary lowering of blood pressure are possible side effects that have been seen during the infusion of a similar antibiotic. If your blood pressure drops noticeably while you are being given the infusion, it will be stopped straight away.
If you are not sure why you are being given this medicine or have any questions about how much of this medicine is being given to you, speak to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. • Your doctor will decide on how much Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion you should have • The dose will depend on the type of infection you have and where the infection is in your body • The length of your treatment will depend on how serious your infection is Adults and elderly • Pneumonia: 500 mg once or twice daily • Infection of urinary tract, including your kidneys and bladder: 500 mg once daily • Prostate gland infection: 500 mg, once daily. • Infections of the skin and underneath the skin, including muscles: 500 mg once or twice daily. Adults and the elderly with kidney problems Your doctor may need to give you a lower dose. Use in children and adolescents This medicine must not be given to children or teenagers. Protect your skin from sunlight Keep out of direct sunlight while having this medicine and for 2 days after you stop having it. This is because your skin will become much more sensitive to the sun and may burn, tingle or severely blister if you do not take the following precautions: • Make sure you use high factor sun cream • Always wear a hat and clothes which cover your arms and legs • Avoid sun beds If you are given more Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion than you should It is unlikely that your doctor or nurse will give you too much medicine. Your doctor and nurse will monitor your progress and check the medicine you are given. Always ask if you are not sure why you are getting a dose of medicine. Having too much Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion may cause the following effects to happen: convulsive fits (seizures), feeling confused, dizzy, less conscious, having tremors and heart problems – leading to uneven heart beats as well as feeling sick (nausea). If you miss your dose of Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion Your doctor or nurse will have instructions on when to give you this medicine. It is unlikely that you will not be given the medicine as it has been prescribed. However, if you do think you have missed a dose, tell your doctor or nurse. If you stop receiving Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion Your doctor or nurse will continue giving you this medicine, even if you feel better. If it is stopped too soon, your condition may get worse or the bacteria may become resistant to the medicine. After a few days
treatment with the solution for infusion, your doctor may decide to switch you to the tablet form of this medicine to complete your course of treatment. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
4.
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. These effects are normally mild or moderate and often disappear after a short time. Stop having Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion and tell a doctor or nurse straight away if you notice the following side effect: Rare: may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people • Watery diarrhoea which may have blood in it, possibly with stomach cramps and a high temperature.These could be signs of a severe bowel problem • Pain and inflammation in your tendons or ligaments which could lead to rupture. The Achilles tendon is affected most often • Fits (convulsions) • Serious skin rashes including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. These can appear as reddish target-like macules or circular patches often with central blisters on the trunk, skin peeling, ulcers of mouth, throat, nose, genitals and eyes and can be preceded by fever and flu-like symptoms. See also section 2. • Widespread rash, high body temperature, liver enzyme elevations, blood abnormalities (eosinophilia), enlarged lymph nodes and other body organs involvement (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms which is also known as DRESS or drug hypersensitivity syndrome). See also section 2. • Syndrome associated with impaired water excretion and low levels of sodium (SIADH) Very rare: may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people • You may have an allergic reaction. The signs may include: a rash, swallowing or breathing problems, swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue . • Burning, tingling, pain or numbness. These may be signs of something called "neuropathy" Not known: frequency cannot be estimated from the available data • Abnormal fast heart rhythm, life-threatening irregular heart rhythm including cardiac arrest, alteration of the heart rhythm (called 'prolongation of QT interval', seen on ECG, electrical activity of the heart) • Loss of appetite, skin and eyes becoming yellow in colour, dark-coloured urine, itching, or tender stomach (abdomen). These may be signs of liver problems which may include a fatal failure of the liver If your eyesight becomes impaired or if you have any other eye disturbances whilst taking this medicine, consult an eye specialist immediately. Tell your doctor if any of the following side effects gets serious or lasts longer than a few days: Common: may affect up to 1 in 10 people • Sleeping problems • Headache, feeling dizzy • Feeling sick (nausea, vomiting) and diarrhoea • Increase in the level of some liver enzymes in your blood • Reactions at the site of infusion • Inflammation of a vein Uncommon: may affect up to 1 in 100 people
• • • • • • • • •
Changes in the number of other bacteria or fungi, infection by fungi named Candida, which may need to be treated Changes in the number of white blood cells shown up in the results of some blood tests (leukopenia, eosinophilia) Feeling stressed (anxiety), feeling confused, feeling nervous, feeling sleepy, trembling, a spinning feeling (vertigo) Shortness of breath (dyspnoea) Changes in the way things taste, loss of appetite, stomach upset or indigestion (dyspesis), pain in your stomach area, feeling bloated (flatulence) or constipation Itching and skin rash, severe itching or hives (urticaria), sweating too much (hyperhidrosis) Joint pain or muscle pain Blood test may show unusual results due to liver (bilirubin increased) or kidney (creatinine increased) problems General weakness.
Rare: may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people • Cases of long lasting (up to months or years) or permanent adverse drug reactions have been associated with quinolone and fluoroquinolone antibiotics. These may include tendon inflammations, tendon rupture, joint pain, pain in the limbs, difficulty in walking, abnormal sensations such as pins and needles, tingling, pricking, burning, numbness or pain (neuropathy), fatigue, sleep disorders, memory impairment, mental health effects which may include, but are not necessarily limited to, anxiety, panic attacks, confusion, or depression, as well as impairment of hearing, vision, and taste and smell. There are no medicines that have been established as being effective treatments for the symptoms of long lasting or disabling side effects associated with fluoroquinolones. • Bruising and bleeding easily due to a lowering in the number of blood platelets (thrombocytopenia) • Low number of white blood cells (neutropenia) • Exaggerated immune response (hypersensitivity) • Lowering of your blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia). This is important for people that have diabetes • Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations, paranoia), change in your opinion and thoughts (psychotic reactions) with a risk of having suicidal thoughts or actions • Feeling depressed, mental problems, feeling restless (agitation), abnormal dreams or nightmares • Tingly feeling in your hands and feet (paraesthesia) • Problems with your hearing (tinnitus) or eyesight (blurred vision) • Unusual fast beating of your heart (tachycardia) or low blood pressure (hypotension) • Muscle weakness. This is important in people with myasthenia gravis (a rare disease of the nervous system) • Changes in the way your kidney works and occasional kidney failure which may be due to an allergic kidney reaction called interstitial nephritis • Fever. • Sharply demarcated, erythematous patches with/without blistering that develop within hours of administration of levofloxacin and heals with post inflammatory residual hyperpigmentation; it usually recurs at the same site of the skin or mucous membrane upon subsequent exposure to levofloxacin Not known: frequency cannot be estimated from the available data • Lowering in red blood cells (anaemia): this can make the skin pale or yellow due to damage of the red blood cells; lowering in the number of all types of blood cells (pancytopenia) • Bone marrow stops producing new blood cells, this may cause tiredness, lower ability to fight infection and uncontrolled bleeding (bone marrow failure) • Fever, sore throat and a general feeling of being unwell that does not go away. This may be due to a lowering in the number of white blood cells (agranulocytosis). • Loss of circulation (anaphylactic like shock) • Increase of your blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia) or lowering of your blood sugar levels leading to coma (hypoglycaemic coma). This is important for people that have diabetes. • Changes in the way things smell, loss of smell or taste (parosmia, anosmia, ageusia) • Feeling very excited, elated, agitated or enthusiastic (mania) • Problems moving and walking (dyskinesia, extrapyramidal disorders) • Temporary loss of consciousness or posture (syncope)
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Temporary loss of vision Impairment or loss of hearing Difficulty breathing or wheezing (bronchospasm) Allergic lung reactions Pancreatitis Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis) Increased sensitivity of your skin to sun and ultraviolet light (photosensitivity), darker areas of skin (hyperpigmentation) Inflammation of the vessels that carry blood around your body due to an allergic reaction (vasculitis) Inflammation of the tissue inside the mouth (stomatitis) Muscle rupture and muscle destruction (rhabdomyolysis) Joint redness and swelling (arthritis) Pain, including pain in the back, chest and extremities Sudden involuntary jerks, twitches of the muscles or muscle contractions (myoclonus) Attacks of porphyria in people who already have porphyria (a very rare metabolic disease) Persistent headache with or without blurred vision (benign intracranial hypertension)
Cases of an enlargement and weakening of the aortic wall or a tear in the aortic wall (aneurysms and dissections), which may rupture and may be fatal, and of leaking heart valves have been reported in patients receiving fluoroquinolones. See also section 2. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card scheme Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
5.
Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion
Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. It should be kept in its outer carton in order to protect from light until use. Your doctor or nurse will ensure that your medicine is properly stored. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the outer package and vial after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of the month. Do not use this medicine if you notice the solution is not greenish- yellow solution and practically free from particle. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your nurse or pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.
6.
What Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion contains − − − −
The active substance (the ingredient that makes this medicine work) is levofloxacin, as levofloxacin hemihydrate. Each ml of solution for infusion contains 5 mg of levofloxacin. Each 100 ml of solution for infusion contains 500 mg of levofloxacin. The other ingredients are: sodium chloride
–
hydrochloric acid (for pH adjustment) sodium hydroxide (for pH adjustment) water for injections
What Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion looks like and contents of the pack Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is a clear greenish-yellow solution free from particles. It is supplied in a 100 ml plastic bottle containing 100 ml of solution for infusion. Packs of 1, 5 and 20 bottles are available. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer Marketing Authorisation Holder Mercury Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Dashwood House, 69 Old Broad Street, London, EC2M 1QS, United Kingdom Manufacturer Polpharma, S.A. 83-200 Starogard Gdanski Poland
This leaflet was last revised in September 2024
———————————————————————————————————————The following information is intended for healthcare professionals only: Handling instructions Preparation for administration: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Inspect the bottle before use. It must only be used if the solution is a clear, greenish- yellow solution, practically free from particles. Peel off the protective sheet. Insert an infusion set with a double-lumen needle. Suspend the bottle from the hanger.
Method of administration The solution for infusion is ready for use, and should only be administered by slow infusion into a vein. The infusion time should not be less than 60 minutes (1 hour) for 500 mg (100 ml) of levofloxacin solution for infusion. Protection from light is not necessary during infusion time. Special warnings and precautions for use Infusion Time The recommended infusion time of at least 60 minutes for 500 mg Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion should be observed. It is known for ofloxacin, that during infusion tachycardia and a temporary decrease in blood pressure may develop. In rare cases, as a consequence of a profound drop in blood pressure, circulatory collapse may occur. Should a conspicuous drop in blood pressure occur during infusion of levofloxacin, (L-isomer of ofloxacin) the infusion must be halted immediately. Dosage in patients with kidney impairment
250 mg/24 h
500 mg/24 h
500 mg/12 h
Creatinine clearance 50-20 ml/min 19-10 ml/min < 10 ml/min (including hemodialysis and CAPD)1 1
first dose 250 mg then: 125 mg/24 h then: 125 mg /48 h then: 125 mg/48 h
first dose 500 mg then: 250 mg/24 h then: 125 mg/24 h then: 125 mg/24 h
first dose 500 mg then: 250 mg/12 h then: 125 mg/12 h then: 125 mg/24 h
No additional doses are required after haemodialysis or continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).
Shelf life Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of the month. Keep the bottle in its outer carton in order to protect from light. The shelf life of the product after removal of the bottle from the outer carton is 24 hours when stored under indoor light conditions. Chemical and physical in-use stability has been demonstrated for 8 hours at 25oC upon further dilution of the product with compatible solutions. From a microbiological point of view, unless the method of opening/dilution precludes the risk of microbial contamination, the product should be used immediately. If not used immediately, in-use storage times and conditions are the responsibility of the user. For single use only. Discard any unused solution. Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. These measures will help to protect the environment. Compatibilities This medicine may be given alone or with one of the following solutions: sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%), glucose 50 mg/ml (5%), glucose 25 mg/ml (2.5%) in Ringer's solution, Incompatibilities This medicine should not be mixed with heparin or alkaline solutions (e.g. sodium hydrogen carbonate). This medicine must not be mixed with other medicinal products except those mentioned in the section above.
Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion comes as infusion containing 5mg/ml. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.
The active substance in Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is levofloxacin hemihydrate.
This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.
Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.
The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.
Because of the risk of prolonged, disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse drug reactions (see section 4.4 and section 4.8) this product must only be prescribed when other antibiotics that are commonly recommended for the infection are inappropriate. This applies to all indications listed below. Situations where other antibiotics are considered to be inappropriate are where:
• there is resistance to other first-line antibiotics recommended for the infection;
• other first-line antibiotics are contraindicated in an individual patient;
• other first-line antibiotics have caused side effects requiring treatment to be stopped;
• treatment with other first-line antibiotics has failed.
Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is indicated in adults for the treatment of the following infections (see sections 4.4 and 5.1):
• In Complicated skin and soft tissue infections / Complicated skin and skin structure infections.
• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Acute pyelonephritis and complicated urinary tract infections (see section 4.4).
• Chronic bacterial prostatitis.
• Inhalation Anthrax: postexposure prophylaxis and curative treatment (see section 4.4).
Consideration should be given to official guidance on the appropriate use of anti-bacterial agents
Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is administered by slow intravenous infusion once or twice daily. The dosage depends on the type and severity of the infection and the susceptibility of the presumed causative pathogen. Treatment with levofloxacin after initial use of the intravenous preparation may be completed with an appropriate oral presentation according to the SmPC for the film-coated tablets and as considered appropriate for the individual patient. Given the bioequivalence of the parenteral and oral forms, the same dosage can be used.
Posology
The following dose recommendations can be given for Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion:
Dosage in patients with normal renal function (creatinine clearance > 50 ml/min)
Indication
Daily dose regimen
(according to severity)
Total duration of treatment1
(according to severity)
Community-acquired pneumonia
500 mg once or twice daily
7 – 14 days
Pyelonephritis
500 mg once daily
7 – 10 days
Complicated urinary tract infections
500 mg once daily
7 – 14 days
Chronic bacterial prostatitis.
500 mg once daily
28 days
Complicated skin and soft tissue infections
500 mg once or twice daily
7 – 14 days
Inhalation anthrax
500 mg once daily
8 weeks
1Treatment duration includes intravenous plus oral treatment. The time to switch from intravenous to oral treatment depends on the clinical situation but is normally 2 to 4 days.
Impaired renal function (creatinine clearance ≤50 ml/min)
Creatinine clearance
Dose regimen
250 mg/24 h
500 mg/24 h
500 mg/12 h
first dose: 250 mg
first dose: 500 mg
first dose: 500 mg
50 - 20 ml/min
then: 125 mg/24 h
then: 250 mg/24 h
then : 250 mg/12 h
19-10 ml/min
then: 125 mg/48 h
then: 125 mg/24 h
then: 125 mg/12 h
< 10 ml/min (including haemodialysis and CAPD) 1
then: 125 mg/48 h
then: 125 mg/24 h
then: 125 mg/24 h
1No additional doses are required after haemodialysis or continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).
Impaired liver function
No adjustment of dose is required since levofloxacin is not metabolised to any relevant extent by the liver and is mainly excreted by the kidneys.
Elderly
No adjustment of dose is required in the elderly, other than that imposed by consideration of renal function (see section 4.4. “Tendinitis and tendon rupture” and “QT interval prolongation”).
Paediatric population
Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is contraindicated in children and growing adolescents (see section 4.3).
Method of administration
Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion is only intended for slow intravenous infusion; it is administered once or twice daily. The infusion time must be at least 60 minutes for 500 mg Levofloxacin solution for infusion (see section 4.4).
For step by step instructions see section 6.6.
For incompatibilities see section 6.2 and compatibility with other infusion solutions see section 6.6.
Levofloxacin solution for infusion must not be used:
• in patients hypersensitive to levofloxacin or any other quinolone and any of the excipients listed in section 6.1,
• in patients with epilepsy,
• in patients with history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone administration,
• in children or growing adolescents,
• during pregnancy (see section 4.6)
• in breast-feeding women (see section 4.6)
Prolonged, disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse drug reactions
Cases of prolonged (continuing for months or years), disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse drug reactions affecting different, sometimes multiple, body systems (including musculoskeletal, nervous, psychiatric and senses) have been reported in patients receiving quinolones and fluoroquinolones irrespective of their age and pre-existing risk factors. There are no pharmacological treatments established to be effective treatments of the symptoms of long lasting or disabling side effects associated with fluoroquinolones. Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion should be discontinued immediately at the first signs or symptoms of any serious adverse reaction and patients should be advised to contact their prescriber for advice, so that symptoms can be appropriately investigated and to avoid further exposure which could potentially worsen adverse reactions.
The use of levofloxacin should be avoided in patients who have experienced serious adverse reactions in the past when using quinolone or fluoroquinolone containing products (see section 4.8). Treatment of these patients with levofloxacin should only be initiated in the absence of alternative treatment options and after careful benefit/risk assessment (see also section 4.3).
Aortic aneurysm and dissection, and heart valve regurgitation/incompetence Epidemiologic studies report an increased risk of aortic aneurysm and dissection, particularly in elderly patients, and of aortic and mitral valve regurgitation after intake of fluoroquinolones. Cases of aortic aneurysm and dissection, sometimes complicated by rupture (including fatal ones), and of regurgitation/incompetence of any of the heart valves have been reported in patients receiving fluoroquinolones (see section 4.8).
Therefore, fluoroquinolones should only be used after careful benefit-risk assessment and after consideration of other therapeutic options in patients with positive family history of aneurysm disease or congenital heart valve disease, or in patients diagnosed with pre-existing aortic aneurysm and/or aortic dissection or heart valve disease, or in presence of other risk factors or conditions predisposing
- for both aortic aneurysm and dissection and heart valve regurgitation/incompetence (e.g. connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Turner syndrome, Behcet's disease, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis) or additionally-
- for aortic aneurysm and dissection (e.g. vascular disorders such as Takayasu arteritis or giant cell arteritis, or known atherosclerosis, or Sjögren's syndrome) or additionally
- for heart valve regurgitation/incompetence (e.g. infective endocarditis).
The risk of aortic aneurysm and dissection, and their rupture may also be increased in patients treated concurrently with systemic corticosteroids.
In case of sudden abdominal, chest or back pain, patients should be advised to immediately consult a physician in an emergency department.
Patients should be advised to seek immediate medical attention in case of acute dyspnoea, new onset of heart palpitations, or development of oedema of the abdomen or lower extremities.
Methicillin-resistant S. aureus are very likely to possess co-resistance to fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin. Therefore, levofloxacin is not recommended for the treatment of known or suspected MRSA infections unless laboratory results have confirmed susceptibility of the organism to levofloxacin (and commonly recommended antibacterial agents for the treatment of MSRA-infections are considered inappropriate).
Resistance to fluoroquinolones of E. coli – the most common pathogen involved in urinary tract infections – varies across the European Union. Prescribers are advised to take into account the local prevalence of resistance of E. coli to fluoroquinolones.
Inhalation Anthrax: use in humans is based on in vitro Bacillus anthracis susceptibility data and on animal experimental data together with limited human data. Treating physicians should refer to national and/or international consensus documents regarding the treatment of anthrax.
Infusion Time
The recommended infusion time of at least 30 minutes for 250 mg or 60 minutes for 500 mg Levofloxacin 5mg/ml solution for infusion should be observed. It is known for ofloxacin that during infusion tachycardia and a temporary decrease in blood pressure may develop. In rare cases, as a consequence of a profound drop in blood pressure, circulatory collapse may occur. Should a conspicuous drop in blood pressure occur during infusion of levofloxacin, (L-isomer of ofloxacin) the infusion must be halted immediately.
Tendinitis and tendon rupture
Tendinitis may rarely occur. It most frequently involves the Achilles tendon and may lead to tendon rupture. Tendinitis and tendon rupture (especially but not limited to Achilles tendon), sometimes bilateral, may occur as early as within 48 hours of starting treatment with quinolones and fluoroquinolones and have been reported to occur even up to several months after discontinuation of treatment in patients receiving daily doses of 1000 mg levofloxacin. The risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture is increased in older patients, patients with renal impairment, patients with solid organ transplants, and those treated concurrently with corticosteroids. Therefore, concomitant use of corticosteroids should be avoided.
At the first sign of tendinitis (e.g. painful swelling, inflammation) the treatment with levofloxacin should be discontinued and alternative treatment should be considered. The affected limb(s) should be appropriately treated (e.g., immobilisation). Corticosteroids should not be used if signs of tendinopathy occur.
The daily dose should be adjusted in elderly patients based on creatinine clearance (see section 4.2). Close monitoring of these patients is therefore necessary if they are prescribed levofloxacin.
Myoclonus
Cases of myoclonus have been reported in patients receiving levofloxacin (see section 4.8). The risk of myoclonus is increased in older patients, and in patients with renal impairment if the dose of levofloxacin is not adjusted as per the creatinine clearance. Levofloxacin should be discontinued immediately at the first occurrence of myoclonus and appropriate treatment should be initiated.
Clostridium difficile-associated disease
Diarrhoea, particularly if severe, persistent and/or bloody, during or after treatment with levofloxacin (including several weeks after treatment), may be symptomatic of Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD). CDAD may range in severity from mild to life-threatening, the most severe form of which is pseudomembranous colitis (see section 4.8). It is therefore important to consider this diagnosis in patients who develop serious diarrhoea during of after treatment with levofloxacin. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, levofloxacin must be stopped immediately and appropriate treatment initiated without delay. Anti-peristaltic medicinal products are contraindicated in this clinical situation.
Blood disorders
Bone marrow failure including leukopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, aplastic anaemia, or agranulocytosis may develop during treatment with levofloxacin (see section 4.8). If any of these blood disorders is suspected, blood counts should be monitored. In case of abnormal results, discontinuation of treatment with levofloxacin should be considered.
Patients predisposed to seizures
Quinolones may lower the seizure threshold and may trigger seizures. Levofloxacin is contraindicated in patients with a history of epilepsy (see section 4.3) and, as with other quinolones, should be used with extreme caution in patients predisposed to seizures, or with concomitant treatment with active substances that lower the cerebral seizure threshold, such as theophylline (see section 4.5.). In case of convulsive seizures (see section 4.8), treatment with levofloxacin should be discontinued.
Patients with G-6- phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
Patients with latent or actual defects in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity may be prone to haemolytic reactions when treated with quinolone antibacterial agents. Therefore, if levofloxacin has to be used in these patients, potential occurrence of haemolysis should be monitored.
Patients with renal impairment
Since levofloxacin is excreted mainly by the kidneys, the dose of Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion should be adjusted in patients with renal impairment (see also section 4.2).
Hypersensitivity reactions
Levofloxacin can cause serious, potentially fatal hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. angioedema up to anaphylactic shock), occasionally following the initial dose (see section 4.8). Patients should discontinue treatment immediately and contact their doctor or an emergency doctor, who will initiate appropriate emergency measures.
Severe cutaneous adverse reactions
Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) including toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN: also known as Lyell's syndrome), Stevens Johnson syndrome (SJS) and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), which could be life-threatening or fatal, have been reported with levofloxacin (see section 4.8). At the time of prescription, patients should be advised of the signs and symptoms of severe skin reactions, and be closely monitored. If signs and symptoms suggestive of these reactions appear, levofloxacin should be discontinued immediately and an alternative treatment should be considered. If the patient has developed a serious reaction such as SJS, TEN or DRESS with the use of levofloxacin, treatment with levofloxacin must not be restarted in this patient at any time.
Dysglycaemia
As with all quinolones, disturbances in blood glucose, including both hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia have been reported, usually in diabetic patients receiving concomitant treatment with an oral hypoglycaemic agent (e.g., glibenclamide) or with insulin. Cases of hypoglycaemic coma have been reported. In diabetic patients, careful monitoring of blood glucose is recommended (see section 4.8).
Prevention of photosensitisation
Photosensitisation has been reported with levofloxacin (see section 4.8). It is recommended that patients should not expose themselves unnecessarily to strong sunlight or to artificial UV rays (e.g. sunray lamp, solarium), during treatment and for 48 hours following treatment discontinuation in order to prevent photosensitisation.
Patients treated with Vitamin K antagonists
Due to possible increase in coagulation tests (PT/INR) and/or bleeding in patients treated with levofloxacin in combination with a vitamin K antagonist (e.g. warfarin), coagulation tests should be monitored when these drugs are given concomitantly (see also section 4.5).
Psychotic reactions
Psychotic reactions have been reported in patients receiving quinolones, including levofloxacin. In very rare cases these have progressed to suicidal thoughts and self-endangering behaviour- sometimes after only a single dose of levofloxacin (see section 4.8). In the event that the patient develops these reactions, levofloxacin should be discontinued and appropriate measures instituted. Caution is recommended if levofloxacin is to be used in psychotic patients or in patients with history of psychiatric disease.
QT interval prolongation
Caution should be taken when using fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin, in patients with known risk factors for prolongation of the QT interval such as, for example:
- congenital long QT syndrome
- concomitant use of drugs that are known to prolong the QT interval (e.g. Class IA and III antiarrythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides).
- uncorrected electrolyte imbalance (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia)
- cardiac disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, bradycardia)
Elderly patients and women may be more sensitive to QTc-prolonging medications. Therefore, caution should be taken when using fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin in these populations.
(See section 4.2 Elderly, section 4.5, section 4.8, section 4.9).
Peripheral neuropathy
Cases of sensory or sensorimotor polyneuropathy resulting in paraesthesia, hypaesthesia, dysesthesia, or weakness have been reported in patients receiving quinolones and fluoroquinolones. Patients under treatment with levofloxacin should be advised to inform their doctor prior to continuing treatment if symptoms of neuropathy such as pain, burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness develop in order to prevent the development of potentially irreversible condition (see section 4.8).
Hepatobiliary disorders
Cases of hepatic necrosis up to fatal hepatic failure have been reported with levofloxacin, primarily in patients with severe underlying diseases, e.g. sepsis (see section 4.8). Patients should be advised to stop treatment and contact their doctor if signs and symptoms of hepatic disease develop such as anorexia, jaundice, dark urine, pruritus or tender abdomen.
Exacerbation of myasthenia gravis
Fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin, have neuromuscular blocking activity and may exacerbate muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. Postmarketing serious adverse reactions, including deaths and the requirement for respiratory support, have been associated with fluoroquinolone use in patients with myasthenia gravis. Levofloxacin is not recommended in patients with a known history of myasthenia gravis.
Vision disorders
If vision becomes impaired or any effects on the eyes are experienced, an eye specialist should be consulted immediately (see sections 4.7 and 4.8).
Superinfection
The use of levofloxacin, especially if prolonged, may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken.
Interference with laboratory tests
In patients treated with levofloxacin, determination of opiates in urine may give false-positive results. It may be necessary to confirm positive opiate screens by more specific methods.
Levofloxacin may inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and, therefore, may give false-negative results in the bacteriological diagnosis of tuberculosis.
Sodium content
This medicinal product contains 354.2 mg sodium per 100 ml equivalent to 17.71% of the WHO recommended maximum daily intake of 2 g sodium for an adult.
This should be taken into account in patients on a controlled sodium diet and in cases where fluid restriction is required.
Effect of other medicinal products on Levofloxacin 5mg/ml solution for infusion
Theophylline, fenbufen or similar non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
No pharmacokinetic interactions of levofloxacin were found with theophylline in a clinical study. However, a pronounced lowering of the cerebral seizure threshold may occur when quinolones are given concurrently with theophylline, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or other agents which lower the seizure threshold.
Levofloxacin concentrations were about 13% higher in the presence of fenbufen than when administered alone.
Probenecid and cimetidine
Probenecid and cimetidine had a statistically significant effect on the elimination of levofloxacin. The renal clearance of levofloxacin was reduced by cimetidine (24%) and probenecid (34%). This is because both drugs are capable of blocking the renal tubular secretion of levofloxacin. However, at the tested doses in the study, the statistically significant kinetic differences are unlikely to be of clinical relevance.
Caution should be exercised when levofloxacin is coadministered with drugs that effect the tubular renal secretion such as probenecid and cimetidine, especially in renally impaired patients.
Other relevant information
Clinical pharmacology studies have shown that the pharmacokinetics of levofloxacin were not affected to any clinically relevant extent when levofloxacin was administered together with the following drugs: calcium carbonate, digoxin, glibenclamide, ranitidine.
Effect of Levofloxacin 5 mg/ml solution for infusion on other medicinal products
Ciclosporin
The half-life of ciclosporin was increased by 33% when coadministered with levofloxacin.
Vitamin K antagonists
Increased coagulation tests (PT/INR) and/or bleeding, which may be severe, have been reported in patients treated with levofloxacin in combination with a vitamin K antagonist (e.g. warfarin). Coagulation tests, therefore, should be monitored in patients treated with vitamin K antagonists (see section 4.4.)
Drugs known to prolong QT interval
Levofloxacin, like other fluoroquinolones, should be used with caution in patients receiving drugs known to prolong the QT interval (e.g. Class IA and III antiarrhythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides, antipsychotics) (see section 4.4 QT interval prolongation).
Other relevant information
In a pharmacokinetic interaction study, levofloxacin did not affect the pharmacokinetics of theophylline (which is a probe substrate for CYP1A2), indicating that levofloxacin is not a CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Pregnancy
There are limited amount of data from the use of levofloxacin in pregnant women. Animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3). However in the absence of human data and due to the fact that experimental data suggest a risk of damage by fluoroquinolones to the weight-bearing cartilage of the growing organism, levofloxacin must not be used in pregnant women (see sections 4.3 and 5.3).
Breast-feeding
Levofloxacin is contraindicated in breast-feeding women. There is insufficient information on the excretion of levofloxacin in human milk; however other fluoroquinolones are excreted in breast milk. In the absence of human data and due to the fact that experimental data suggest a risk of damage by fluoroquinolones to the weight-bearing cartilage of the growing organism, levofloxacin must not be used in breast-feeding women (see sections 4.3 and 5.3).
Fertility
Levofloxacin caused no impairment of fertility or reproductive performance in rats.
Levofloxacin has a minor or moderate influence on the ability to drive and use machines.
Some undesirable effects of levofloxacin, such as dizziness/vertigo, drowsiness and visual disturbances (see section 4.8), may impair the patient's ability to concentrate and react and therefore may constitute a risk in situations where these abilities are or special importance (e.g. driving a car or operating machinery).
The information given below is based on data from clinical studies in more than 8300 patients and on extensive post marketing experience.
Frequencies in this table are defined using the following convention: very common (≥1/10), common (≥1/100 to <1/10), uncommon (≥1/1000 to <1/100), rare (≥1/10000 to <1/1000), very rare (<1/10000), not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).
Within each frequency grouping, undesirable effects are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.
System organ class
Common
(≥1/100 to <1/10)
Uncommon
(≥1/1,000 to <1/100)
Rare
(≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000)
Not known (cannot be estimated from the available data)
Infections and infestations
Fungal infection including Candida infection, Pathogen resistance
Blood and lymphatic system disorders
Leukopenia, Eosinophilia
Thrombocytopenia, Neutropenia
Bone marrow failure including aplastic anaemia, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, haemolytic anaemia
Immune system disorders
Angioedema Hypersensitivity (see section 4.4)
Anaphylactic shocka Anaphylactoid shocka
(see section 4.4)
Endocrine disorders
Syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)
Metabolism and nutrition disorders
Anorexia
Hypoglycaemia, particularly in diabetic patients (see section 4.4)
Hyperglycaemia
Hypoglycaemic coma (see section 4.4)
Psychiatric disorders*
Insomnia
Anxiety
Confusional state
Nervousness
Psychotic reactions (with e.g. hallucination paranoia)
Depression
Agitation
Abnormal dreams
Nightmares
Psychotic disorders with self-endangering behaviour including suicidal ideation or suicide attempt (see section 4.4), Mania
Nervous system disorders*
Headache Dizziness,
Somnolence
Tremor
Dysgeusia
Convulsion (see sections 4.3. and 4.4)
Paraesthesia
Peripheral sensory neuropathy (see section 4.4)
Peripheral sensory motor neuropathy (see section 4.4)
Parsomia including ansomia
Dyskinesia
Extrapyramidal disorder
Ageusia
Syncope
Benign intracranial hypertension
Myoclonus
Eye disorders*
Visual disturbances such as blurred vision (see section 4.4)
Transient vision loss (see section 4.4)
Ear and Labyrinth disorders*
Vertigo
Tinnitus
Hearing loss
Hearing impaired
Cardiac disorders**
Tachycardia
Palpitation
Ventricular tachycardia which may result in cardiac arrest.
Ventricular arrhythmia and torsade de pointes (reported predominantly in patients with risk factors of QT prolongation), electrocardiogram QT prolonged (see sections 4.4 and 4.9)
Vascular disorders**
Applies to i.v. form only:
Phlebitis
Hypotension
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Dyspnoea
Bronchospasm
Pneumonitis allergic
Gastrointestinal disorders
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Nausea
Abdominal pain
Dyspepsia
Flatulence
Constipation
Diarrhoea – haemorhagic which in very rare cases may be indicative of enterocolitis including pseudomembranous colitis (see section 4.4)
Pancreatitis
Hepatobiliary disorders
Hepatic enzyme increased (ALT/AST, alkaline phosphatase GGT)
Blood bilirubin increased
Jaundice and severe liver injury, including cases with fatal acute liver failure, primarily in patients with severe underlying diseases (see section 4.4)
Hepatitis
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disordersb
Rash
Pruritus
Urticaria
Hyperhidrosis
Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) (see section 4.4), Fixed drug eruption
Toxic epidermal necrolysis
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Erythema multiforme
Photosensitivity reaction (see section 4.4)
Leukocytoclasic vasculitis
Stomatitis
Skin hyperpigmentation
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders*
Arthalgia
Myalgia
Tendon disorders (see sections 4.3 and 4.4) including tendinitis and tendon rupture (e.g. Achilles tendon)
Muscular weakness which may be of special importance in patients with myasthenia gravis (see section 4.4)
Rhabdomyolysis
Ligament rupture
Muscle rupture
Arthritis
Renal and urinary disorders
Blood creatinine increased
Renal failure acute (e.g. due to interstitial nephritis)
General disorders and administration site conditions*
Applies to iv form only:
Infusion site reaction (pain, reddening)
Asthenia
Pyrexia
Pain (including pain in back, chest and extremities)
a Anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions may sometimes occur even after the first dose
b Mucocutaneous reactions may sometimes occur even after the first dose
* Cases of prolonged (up to months or years), disabling and potentially irreversible serious drug reactions affecting several, sometimes multiple, system organ classes and senses (including reactions such as tendinitis, tendon rupture, arthralgia, pain in extremities, gait disturbance, neuropathies associated with paraesthesia, fatigue, psychiatric symptoms, memory impairment, , and impairment of hearing, vision, taste and smell) have been reported in association with the use of quinolones and fluoroquinolones in some cases irrespective of pre-existing risk factors (see Section 4.4). A range of psychiatric symptoms may occur as part of these side effects, which may include, but are not necessarily limited to, sleep disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, confusion, or depression. There are no pharmacological treatments established to be effective treatments of the symptoms of long lasting or disabling side effects associated with fluoroquinolones. The frequency of these prolonged, disabling and potentially irreversible serious drug reactions cannot be estimated with precision using available data, but the reporting incidence from adverse drug reaction reports indicates the frequency is at minimum between 1/1,000 and 1/10,000 (corresponding to the Rare frequency category).
** Cases of aortic aneurysm and dissection, sometimes complicated by rupture (including fatal ones), and of regurgitation/incompetence of any of the heart valves have been reported in patients receiving fluoroquinolones (see section 4.4).
Other undesirable effects which have been associated with fluoroquinolone administration include:
• attacks of porphyria in patients with porphyria.
Reporting of suspected adverse reactions
Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.
Symptoms
According to toxicity studies in animals or clinical pharmacology studies performed with supra-therapeutic doses, the most important signs to be expected following acute overdose of levofloxacin are central nervous system symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, impairment of consciousness, and convulsive seizures, increases in QT interval.
CNS effects including confusional state, convulsion, myoclonus, hallucination, and tremor have been observed in post marketing experience.
Management
In the event of overdose, symptomatic treatment should be implemented. ECG monitoring should be undertaken, because of the possibility of QT interval prolongation. Haemodialysis, including peritoneal dialysis and CAPD, are not effective in removing levofloxacin from the body. No specific antidote exists.
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