Lquin (levofloxacin) is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic designed for the targeted treatment of complex and resistant bacterial infections. As a third-generation fluoroquinolone, it offers enhanced gram-positive and atypical pathogen coverage while maintaining potent activity against gram-negative organisms. Its high bioavailability and excellent tissue penetration make it a first-line choice for healthcare providers managing pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and skin structure infections where resistance patterns or patient factors limit conventional options. The optimized pharmacokinetic profile ensures reliable bacterial eradication while minimizing dosing frequency, supporting both outpatient and inpatient treatment pathways.

Features

• Contains 250mg, 500mg, or 750mg of levofloxacin per tablet
• Once-daily dosing regimen for improved adherence
• High oral bioavailability (>99%) with no food interference
• Broad-spectrum coverage including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Available in both oral and intravenous formulations for seamless transition
• Demonstrated stability across pH ranges for consistent absorption

Benefits

• Rapid bacterial eradication due to concentration-dependent killing mechanism
• Reduced hospitalization duration through effective outpatient therapy options
• Lower risk of resistance development compared to earlier generation antibiotics
• Simplified treatment regimens improving patient compliance and outcomes
• Effective against multidrug-resistant pathogens in carefully selected cases
• Comprehensive tissue penetration including lung, prostate, and skin tissues

Common use

Lquin is indicated for the treatment of adults with infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms. Primary indications include community-acquired pneumonia (including multidrug-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae), complicated urinary tract infections, acute pyelonephritis, chronic bacterial prostatitis, and complicated skin and skin structure infections. It is also approved for inhalational anthrax exposure and plague. Off-label uses may include certain sexually transmitted infections and orthopedic infections when pathogen susceptibility is confirmed. Healthcare providers should always consider local resistance patterns before initiating therapy.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage of Lquin depends on the type and severity of infection, renal function, and pathogen susceptibility. For most indications, 500mg once daily is standard, while 750mg may be used for more severe infections like complicated UTI or pyelonephritis. Patients with impaired renal function (CrCl <50 mL/min) require dosage adjustment. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, with or without food, at approximately the same time each day. The full prescribed course should be completed even if symptoms improve earlier. Intravenous administration is reserved for hospitalized patients or those unable to take oral medication.

Precautions

Patients should be advised that Lquin may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, potentially affecting ability to drive or operate machinery. Adequate hydration should be maintained during treatment to prevent crystal formation. Sun exposure should be limited due to photosensitivity risk. Blood glucose monitoring is recommended in diabetic patients. Tendon inflammation or rupture may occur, particularly in elderly patients, those taking corticosteroids, or organ transplant recipients. Any symptoms of tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation should prompt immediate medical attention.

Contraindications

Lquin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, other quinolones, or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use. Concomitant administration with tizanidine is absolutely contraindicated. Use is prohibited in patients with myasthenia gravis due to potential exacerbation. Pregnancy category C: should be avoided during pregnancy unless potential benefits justify potential risks. Not recommended during breastfeeding due to secretion in human milk.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥1%) include nausea, diarrhea, headache, constipation, insomnia, and dizziness. Less frequent but clinically significant effects may include tendonitis or tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, central nervous system effects (including seizures, anxiety, confusion), QT interval prolongation, hypoglycemia, hepatic enzyme elevation, and photosensitivity. Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea may occur during or after treatment. Rare but serious events include severe skin reactions, hematologic abnormalities, and psychiatric disturbances. Patients should report any unusual symptoms promptly.

Drug interaction

Lquin interacts significantly with several medication classes. Antacids containing magnesium, aluminum, iron, or zinc can reduce absorption and should be administered at least 2 hours before or after Lquin. QT-prolonging agents (antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, macrolides) may increase arrhythmia risk. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may enhance CNS stimulation effects. Warfarin requires close INR monitoring due to potentiation of anticoagulant effect. Diabetic medications may require adjustment due to hypoglycemia risk. Theophylline levels should be monitored with concomitant use.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should never take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Healthcare providers should educate patients about the importance of maintaining consistent antibiotic levels and the potential consequences of irregular dosing on treatment efficacy and resistance development.

Overdose

In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive care should be initiated immediately. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, tremors, confusion, seizures, or QT prolongation. ECG monitoring is recommended for at least 24 hours. Hemodialysis removes approximately 10% of the drug and may be considered in severe cases. There is no specific antidote for levofloxacin overdose. Management should focus on maintaining hydration, electrolyte balance, and addressing specific symptoms as they arise.

Storage

Lquin tablets should be stored at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in their original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not store in bathroom cabinets due to humidity fluctuations. Do not use if the packaging is damaged or tablets show signs of discoloration or deterioration. Proper disposal of unused medication through take-back programs is recommended to prevent environmental contamination and accidental ingestion.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Lquin is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The prescribing physician should be consulted for specific diagnostic and treatment decisions. Individual patient factors, including allergies, comorbidities, and concomitant medications, must be considered before initiating therapy. Always follow the complete prescribing information and local treatment guidelines.

Reviews

“Lquin has been invaluable in our respiratory ward for managing drug-resistant pneumonias. The once-daily dosing significantly improves patient compliance compared to older alternatives.” - Dr. Eleanor Vance, Pulmonologist

“In complicated UTI cases where other agents have failed, Lquin consistently demonstrates excellent eradication rates. The IV to oral transition capability streamlines patient discharge.” - Infectious Disease Team, Metropolitan Hospital

“While effective, we maintain heightened vigilance for tendon-related adverse events, particularly in our elderly population. Appropriate patient selection remains paramount.” - Department of Geriatric Medicine

“Antibiotic stewardship protocols restrict Lquin to confirmed susceptible infections, but it remains a crucial tool in our antimicrobial arsenal for appropriate indications.” - Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee