Lquin (levofloxacin) is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic indicated for the treatment of adults with complicated and uncomplicated bacterial infections across multiple organ systems. Developed through advanced synthetic chemistry, Lquin demonstrates potent bactericidal activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, including multidrug-resistant strains. Its optimized pharmacokinetic profile ensures high tissue penetration and sustained therapeutic concentrations, making it a first-line option in hospital and community settings where resistant organisms are suspected. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy in lower respiratory tract, skin, skin structure, urinary tract, and chronic bacterial prostatitis infections.

Features

• Active ingredient: Levofloxacin 250mg, 500mg, or 750mg film-coated tablets
• Mechanism: Inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV
• Spectrum: Broad coverage including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible), Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa
• Bioavailability: Approximately 99% with oral administration
• Half-life: 6–8 hours permitting once-daily dosing
• Excretion: Primarily renal (unchanged drug)

Benefits

• Rapid bactericidal action reduces bacterial load within 24–48 hours of initiation
• High lung tissue and alveolar macrophage penetration ideal for respiratory infections
• Convenient once-daily dosing improves adherence and reduces treatment complexity
• Demonstrated efficacy against many multidrug-resistant organisms
• Well-established safety profile with extensive post-marketing surveillance data
• Available in multiple strengths for tailored therapeutic regimens

Common use

Lquin is commonly prescribed for acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, community-acquired pneumonia, complicated urinary tract infections (including pyelonephritis), uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, and chronic bacterial prostatitis. It is particularly valuable in cases where penicillin or cephalosporin allergies preclude alternative therapies, or when local resistance patterns favor fluoroquinolone use. Off-label applications may include certain sexually transmitted infections, though culture and susceptibility confirmation should guide such use.

Dosage and direction

Administer tablets orally with or without food, with a full glass of water. Maintain adequate hydration during treatment. Dosage varies by indication and renal function:

• Community-acquired pneumonia: 500mg once daily for 7–14 days
• Complicated urinary tract infections: 750mg once daily for 5 days
• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: 500mg once daily for 7 days
• Complicated skin infections: 750mg once daily for 7–14 days

For patients with creatinine clearance <50 mL/min, dosage adjustment is required. Do not crush or chew tablets.

Precautions

Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and use protective measures due to photosensitivity risk. Monitor for tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation; discontinue at first sign of tendinitis. Use with caution in patients with known or suspected central nervous system disorders (e.g., epilepsy) due to potential seizure threshold reduction. May prolong QT interval; avoid in patients with known QT prolongation, uncorrected hypokalemia, or concurrent use of other QT-prolonging drugs. Periodic renal function assessment recommended during extended therapy.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, other fluoroquinolones, or any product components. Contraindicated in patients with history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use. Not recommended in pediatric patients (except for specific indications like inhalational anthrax), during pregnancy (Category C), or nursing mothers due to arthropathy risk in immature animals and secretion in human milk.

Possible side effect

Common (>1%): nausea, diarrhea, headache, insomnia. Less common: dizziness, abdominal pain, constipation, rash. Serious but rare: tendon rupture (especially Achilles), peripheral neuropathy, CNS effects (seizures, psychosis), Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, hypoglycemia, hepatic toxicity, blood dyscrasias. Discontinue immediately if serious adverse reactions occur.

Drug interaction

Antacids containing magnesium/aluminum, sucralfate, iron preparations, or zinc significantly reduce absorption (administer Lquin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after these products). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase CNS stimulation risk. Corticosteroids may enhance tendon rupture risk. Warfarin: monitor INR closely due to potentiation of anticoagulant effect. Drugs that prolong QT interval (antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, macrolides) require careful risk-benefit assessment.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. Maintain regular dosing intervals to ensure consistent therapeutic levels.

Overdose

Symptoms may include CNS excitation (seizures, confusion), gastrointestinal distress, and QT prolongation. Management is supportive; ECG monitoring recommended. Hemodialysis removes approximately 10% of dose. No specific antidote exists. Contact poison control center for latest guidance.

Storage

Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F) in original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment decisions must be made by a qualified healthcare provider based on individual patient circumstances. Always follow prescribed directions and report adverse events to your physician and the FDA MedWatch program.

Reviews

“Lquin remains a cornerstone in our antimicrobial arsenal for resistant pneumonias. Its consistent bioavailability and predictable kinetics make it invaluable in critical care.” – Infectious Disease Specialist, 12 years experience

“Our clinic utilizes Lquin for complicated UTIs with excellent culture clearance rates. The once-daily dosing significantly improves completion rates in our elderly population.” – Urologist, regional hospital

“While effective, we reserve Lquin for cases without suitable alternatives due to safety profile concerns. Appropriate patient selection is crucial.” – Internal Medicine Physician, academic medical center

“Rapid clinical improvement in patients with exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, though we monitor closely for gastrointestinal side effects.” – Pulmonologist, private practice