What Is it?
Levaquin, active ingredient levofloxacin, is an antibiotic that is available by prescription only. It has been approved for the treatment of many different types of infections. It has also been approved for the prevention of infection if exposed to inhaled anthrax.
Who is the maker?
Ortho- McNeil Parmaceutical, Inc. is the maker of Levaquin.
How It Works
Levaquin is part of a class of medications called fluoroquinolones. They are also often called quinolones. These medications work by blocking essential enzymes called DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV in bacteria that are necessary for the bacteria to repair and copy DNA and repair it, which keeps the bacteria from multiplying.
Possible Side Effects
As is the case with all medications, there is the potential for side effects while taking Levaquin. Not everyone that takes this medication will notice side effects as it is generally well tolerated. It is less common to notice serious side effects. Some of the more commonly reported side effects include insomnia, diarrhea, nausea and headache.
Generic forms of Levaquin
At this time, there is generic Levaquin available.