For further information, contact the Oklahoma City-County Health Department
(405) 425-4437
revised 01/2015
What is levofloxacin?
Levofloxacin belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics. It has been approved by
the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat and protect people who have been exposed to
anthrax spores. Levofloxacin usually provided in a 750-mg oral tablet or as an oral suspension
for children.
How to take levofloxacin?
ADULTS: Take 1 tablet every 24 hours as directed. It is important to take this medicine at the
same time every day.
CHILDREN: A child’s dose depends on body weight. Give the medication to your child as directed
on additional dosing documentation.
It is best to take levofloxacin 2 hours before or after a meal with at least one large glass of
water. However, if an upset stomach occurs, levofloxacin may be taken with food. Avoid dairy
products such as milk and yogurt for at least 2 hours before and after taking the medicine. If
you take vitamins or antacids such as Tums or Maalox, take them 2 hours before or 2 hours
after taking levofloxacin.
Levofloxacin dosing in Anthrax Attack:
Initial 10 day course will be provided to all individuals who may have been exposed to anthrax.
An additional 50 day course of levofloxacin will be provided to individuals that have been
identified as directly exposed to anthrax attack.
What to do if you miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue taking it every 24 hours. If it is
almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do
not take 2 pills to make up for the missed dose. Finish all your pills, even if you feel okay, unless
your doctor tells you to stop. If you stop taking the medicine too soon, you may become ill.
Side effects
Common side effects of levofloxacin include an upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue,
dizziness or headache. If you have problems with any of these symptoms, tell your doctor. Less
common side effects include yellowing of the skin and eyes, tremors, restlessness, tingling in the
arms and legs, insomnia, seizures, vein or colon inflammation, crystals in urine, tendonitis, tendon
rupture, or mental changes. If any of these symptoms occur, call your doctor right away. Severe
allergic reactions are very rare. Signs of an allergic reaction include, rash, itching, swelling of
the tongue, hands or feet, fever, or trouble breathing. If any of these symptoms occur, call your
doctor right away.
Special note for children: This medicine may cause joint problems in infants and children under
18 years of age. If your child has any joint pain while he/she is taking levofloxacin, tell your doctor.
Levofloxacin Fact Sheet
