levofloxacin in 5% dextrose

Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of adults (≥18 years of age) with mild, moderate, and severe infections caused by susceptible isolates of the designated microorganisms in the conditions listed in this section. Levofloxacin injection is indicated when intravenous administration offers a route of administration advantageous to the patient (e.g., patient cannot tolerate an oral dosage form). Levofloxacin injection is a fluoroquinolone antibacterial indicated in adults (≥18 years of age) with infections caused by designated, susceptible bacteria . Pneumonia: Nosocomial and Community Acquired Skin and Skin Structure Infections: Complicated and Uncomplicated Chronic bacterial prostatitis Inhalational Anthrax, Post-Exposure Plague Urinary Tract Infections: Complicated and Uncomplicated Acute Pyelonephritis Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis Acute Bacterial Sinusitis Usage To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of levofloxacin and other antibacterial drugs, levofloxacin should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria . 1.1 Nosocomial Pneumonia Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia due to methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia marcescens, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Streptococcus pneumoniae . Adjunctive therapy should be used as clinically indicated. Where Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a documented or presumptive pathogen, combination therapy with an anti-pseudomonal β-lactam is recommended [see Clinical Studies ] . 1.2 Community-Acquired Pneumonia: 7 to 14 day Treatment Regimen Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia due to methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae (including multi-drug-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae [MDRSP]), Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, or Mycoplasma pneumoniae [see Dosage and Administration and Clinical Studies ]. MDRSP isolates are isolates resistant to two or more of the following antibacterials: penicillin (MIC ≥2 mcg/mL), 2 nd generation cephalosporins, e.g., cefuroxime, macrolides, tetracyclines and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. 1.3 Community-Acquired Pneumonia: 5-day Treatment Regimen Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia due to Streptococcus pneumoniae (excluding multi-drug-resistant isolates [MDRSP]), Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, or Chlamydophila pneumoniae [see Dosage and Administration and Clinical Studies ]. 1.4 Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections due to methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Proteus mirabilis [see Clinical Studies ]. 1.5 Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections (mild to moderate) including abscesses, cellulitis, furuncles, impetigo, pyoderma, wound infections, due to methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus , or Streptococcus pyogenes . 1.6 Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis due to Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, or methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus epidermidis [see Clinical Studies ]. 1.7 Inhalational Anthrax (Post-Exposure) Levofloxacin injection is indicated for inhalational anthrax (post-exposure) to reduce the incidence or progression of disease following exposure to aerosolized Bacillus anthracis. The effectiveness of levofloxacin injection is based on plasma concentrations achieved in humans, a surrogate endpoint reasonably likely to predict clinical benefit. Levofloxacin injection has not been tested in humans for the post-exposure prevention of inhalation anthrax. The safety of levofloxacin in adults for durations of therapy beyond 28 days or in pediatric patients for durations of therapy beyond 14 days has not been studied. Prolonged levofloxacin therapy should only be used when the benefit outweighs the risk [see Dosage and Administration and Clinical Studies ]. 1.8 Plague Levofloxacin injection is indicated for treatment of plague, including pneumonic and septicemic plague, due to Yersinia pestis ( Y. pestis ) and prophylaxis for plague in adults and pediatric patients, 6 months of age and older. Efficacy studies of levofloxacin could not be conducted in humans with plague for ethical and feasibility reasons. Therefore, approval of this indication was based on an efficacy study conducted in animals [see Dosage and Administration and Clinical Studies ]. 1.9 Complicated Urinary Tract Infections: 5-day Treatment Regimen Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections due to Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, or Proteus mirabilis [see Clinical Studies ]. 1.10 Complicated Urinary Tract Infections: 10-day Treatment Regimen Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (mild to moderate) due to Enterococcus faecalis , Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, or Pseudomonas aeruginosa [see Clinical Studies ] . 1.11 Acute Pyelonephritis: 5 or 10-day Treatment Regimen Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of acute pyelonephritis caused by Escherichia coli , including cases with concurrent bacteremia [see Clinical Studies ] . 1.12 Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (mild to moderate) due to Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, or Staphylococcus saprophyticus . Because fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin injection, have been associated with serious adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 to 5.15) ] and for some patients uncomplicated urinary tract infection is self-limiting, reserve levofloxacin injection for treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections in patients who have no alternative treatment options. 1.13 Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (ABECB) due to methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis . Because fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin injection, have been associated with serious adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 to 5.15 )] and for some patients ABECB is self-limiting, reserve levofloxacin injection for treatment of ABECB in patients who have no alternative treatment options. 1.14 Acute Bacterial Sinusitis: 5-day and 10 to 14 day Treatment Regimens Levofloxacin injection is indicated for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis (ABS) due to Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis [see Clinical Studies ] . Because fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin injection, have been associated with serious adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 to 5.15 )] and for some patients ABS is self-limiting, reserve levofloxacin injection for treatment of ABS in patients who have no alternative treatment options. 1.15 Usage To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of levofloxacin injection and other antibacterial drugs, levofloxacin injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy. Culture and susceptibility testing Appropriate culture and susceptibility tests should be performed before treatment in order to isolate and identify organisms causing the infection and to determine their susceptibility to levofloxacin [see Microbiology ] . Therapy with levofloxacin may be initiated before results of these tests are known; once results become available, appropriate therapy should be selected. As with other drugs in this class, some isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa may develop resistance fairly rapidly during treatment with levofloxacin. Culture and susceptibility testing performed periodically during therapy will provide information about the continued susceptibility of the pathogens to the antimicrobial agent and also the possible emergence of bacterial resistance.

Dosage in patients with normal renal function Type of Infection Dose Every 24 hours Duration (days) Nosocomial Pneumonia 750 mg 7 to 14 Community Acquired Pneumonia 500 mg 7 to 14 Community Acquired Pneumonia 750 mg 5 Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections (SSSI) 750 mg 7 to 14 Uncomplicated SSSI 500 mg 7 to 10 Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis 500 mg 28 Inhalational Anthrax (Post-Exposure) Adults and Pediatric Patients > 50 kg Pediatric Patients 50 kg Pediatric Patients 50 kg Þ,ß Pediatric patients 50 kg à Pediatric patients 50 kg 500 mg 24 hr 60 days § Pediatric patients 50 kg 500 mg 24 hr 10 to 14 days Pediatric patients < 50 kg and ≥ 6 months of age 8 mg/kg (not to exceed 250 mg per dose) 12 hr 10 to 14 days * Due to Bacillus anthracis [see Indications and Usage ] and Yersinia pestis [see Indications and Usage ]. † Sequential therapy (intravenous to oral) may be instituted at the discretion of the physician. ‡ Drug administration should begin as soon as possible after suspected or confirmed exposure to aerosolized B. anthracis . This indication is based on a surrogate endpoint. Levofloxacin plasma concentrations achieved in humans are reasonably likely to predict clinical benefit [see Clinical Studies ] § The safety of levofloxacin in pediatric patients for durations of therapy beyond 14 days has not been studied. An increased incidence of musculoskeletal adverse events compared to controls has been observed in pediatric patients [see Warnings and Precautions , Use in Specific Populations , and Clinical Studies ] . Prolonged levofloxacin therapy should only be used when the benefit outweighs the risk. ¶ Drug administration should begin as soon as possible after suspected or confirmed exposure to Yersinia pestis . 2.3 Dosage Adjustment in Adults with Renal Impairment Administer levofloxacin injection with caution in the presence of renal insufficiency. Careful clinical observation and appropriate laboratory studies should be performed prior to and during therapy since elimination of levofloxacin may be reduced. No adjustment is necessary for patients with a creatinine clearance ≥ 50 mL/min. In patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min), adjustment of the dosage regimen is necessary to avoid the accumulation of levofloxacin due to decreased clearance [see Use in Specific Populations ] . Table 3 shows how to adjust dose based on creatinine clearance. Table 3: Dosage Adjustment in Adult Patients with Renal Impairment (creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min) Dosage in Normal Renal Function Every 24 hours Creatinine Clearance 20 to 49 mL/min Creatinine Clearance 10 to 19 mL/min Hemodialysis or Chronic Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) 750 mg 750 mg every 48 hours 750 mg initial dose, then 500 mg every 48 hours 750 mg initial dose, then 500 mg every 48 hours 500 mg 500 mg initial dose, then 250 mg every 24 hours 500 mg initial dose, then 250 mg every 48 hours 500 mg initial dose, then 250 mg every 48 hours 250 mg No dosage adjustment required 250 mg every 48 hours. If treating uncomplicated UTI, then no dosage adjustment is required No information on dosing adjustment is available 2.4 Drug Interaction With Chelation Agents: Antacids, Sucralfate, Metal Cations, Multivitamins Levofloxacin injection should not be co-administered with any solution containing multivalent cations, e.g., magnesium, through the same intravenous line [see Dosage and Administration ]. 2.5 Administration Instructions Caution: Rapid or bolus intravenous infusion of levofloxacin injection has been associated with hypotension and must be avoided. Levofloxacin injection should be infused intravenously slowly over a period of not less than 60 or 90 minutes, depending on the dosage. Levofloxacin injection should be administered only by intravenous infusion. It is not for intramuscular, intrathecal, intraperitoneal, or subcutaneous administration. Hydration for Patients Receiving Levofloxacin Injection Adequate hydration of patients receiving intravenous levofloxacin injection should be maintained to prevent the formation of highly concentrated urine. Crystalluria and cylindruria have been reported with quinolones [see Adverse Reactions and Patient Counseling Information ]. 2.6 Preparation of Intravenous Product Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Because only limited data are available on the compatibility of levofloxacin injection with other intravenous substances, additives or other medications should not be added to levofloxacin injection premix in single-dose flexible containers, or infused simultaneously through the same intravenous line. If the same intravenous line is used for sequential infusion of several different drugs, the line should be flushed before and after infusion of levofloxacin injection with an infusion solution compatible with levofloxacin injection and with any other drug(s) administered via this common line. Levofloxacin Injection Premix in Single-Dose Flexible Containers (5 mg/mL) Levofloxacin injection is supplied in flexible containers within a foil overwrap. These contain a premixed, ready to use levofloxacin solution in 5% dextrose (D 5 W) for single-dose. The 100 mL premixed flexible containers contain either 250 mg/50 mL or 500 mg/100 mL of levofloxacin solution. The 200 mL flexible container contains 750 mg/150 mL of levofloxacin solution. The concentration of each container is 5 mg/mL. No further dilution of these preparations is necessary. Because the premix flexible containers are for single-dose only, any unused portion should be discarded. Instructions for the Use of Levofloxacin Injection Premix in Flexible Containers : Tear outer wrap at the notch and remove solution container. Check the container for minute leaks by squeezing the inner bag firmly. If leaks are found, or if the seal is not intact, discard the solution, as the sterility may be compromised. Do not use if the solution is cloudy or a precipitate is present. Use sterile equipment. WARNING: Do not use flexible containers in series connections. Such use could result in air embolism due to residual air being drawn from the primary container before administration of the fluid from the secondary container is complete. Preparation for Administration : Close flow control clamp of administration set. Remove cover from port at bottom of container. Insert piercing pin of administration set into port with a twisting motion until the pin is firmly seated. NOTE: See full directions on administration set carton. Suspend container from hanger. Squeeze and release drip chamber to establish proper fluid level in chamber during infusion of Levofloxacin Injection Premix in Flexible Containers. Open flow control clamp to expel air from set. Close clamp. Regulate rate of administration with flow control clamp.

12.1 Mechanism of Action Levofloxacin is a member of the fluoroquinolone class of antibacterial agents [see Microbiology ] .

The most common reactions (≥3%) were nausea, headache, diarrhea, insomnia, constipation and dizziness . To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Eugia US LLC at 1-866-850-2876 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Serious and Otherwise Important Adverse Reactions The following serious and otherwise important adverse drug reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of labeling: Disabling and Potentially Irreversible Serious Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ] Tendinitis and Tendon Rupture [see Warnings and Precautions ] Peripheral Neuropathy [see Warnings and Precautions ] Central Nervous System Effects [see Warnings and Precautions ] Exacerbation of Myasthenia Gravis [see Warnings and Precautions ] Other Serious and Sometimes Fatal Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ] Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ] Risk of Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection [see Warnings and Precautions ] Clostridium difficile -Associated Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions ] Prolongation of the QT Interval [see Warnings and Precautions ] Musculoskeletal Disorders in Pediatric Patients [see Warnings and Precautions ] Blood Glucose Disturbances [see Warnings and Precautions ] Photosensitivity/Phototoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ] Development of Drug Resistant Bacteria [see Warnings and Precautions ] Hypotension has been associated with rapid or bolus intravenous infusion of levofloxacin. Levofloxacin should be infused slowly over 60 to 90 minutes, depending on dosage [see Dosage and Administration ]. Crystalluria and cylindruria have been reported with quinolones, including levofloxacin. Therefore, adequate hydration of patients receiving levofloxacin should be maintained to prevent the formation of a highly concentrated urine [see Dosage and Administration ]. 6.2 Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below reflect exposure to levofloxacin in 7537 patients in 29 pooled Phase 3 clinical trials. The population studied had a mean age of 50 years (approximately 74% of the population was < 65 years of age), 50% were male, 71% were Caucasian, 19% were Black. Patients were treated with levofloxacin for a wide variety of infectious diseases [see Indications and Usage ] . Patients received levofloxacin doses of 750 mg once daily, 250 mg once daily, or 500 mg once or twice daily. Treatment duration was usually 3 to 14 days, and the mean number of days on therapy was 10 days. The overall incidence, type and distribution of adverse reactions was similar in patients receiving levofloxacin doses of 750 mg once daily, 250 mg once daily, and 500 mg once or twice daily. Discontinuation of levofloxacin due to adverse drug reactions occurred in 4.3% of patients overall, 3.8% of patients treated with the 250 mg and 500 mg doses and 5.4% of patients treated with the 750 mg dose. The most common adverse drug reactions leading to discontinuation with the 250 and 500 mg doses were gastrointestinal (1.4%), primarily nausea (0.6%); vomiting (0.4%); dizziness (0.3%); and headache (0.2%). The most common adverse drug reactions leading to discontinuation with the 750 mg dose were gastrointestinal (1.2%), primarily nausea (0.6%), vomiting (0.5%); dizziness (0.3%); and headache (0.3%). Adverse reactions occurring in ≥1% of levofloxacin-treated patients and less common adverse reactions, occurring in 0.1 to <1% of levofloxacin-treated patients, are shown in Table 4 and Table 5, respectively. The most common adverse drug reactions (≥3%) are nausea, headache, diarrhea, insomnia, constipation, and dizziness. Table 4: Common (≥1%) Adverse Reactions Reported in Clinical Trials with Levofloxacin * N = 7274 † N = 3758 (women) System/Organ Class Adverse Reaction % (N = 7537) Infections and Infestations moniliasis 1 Psychiatric Disorders insomnia * [see Warnings and Precautions ] 4 Nervous System Disorders headache dizziness [see Warnings and Precautions ] 6 3 Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders dyspnea [see Warnings and Precautions ] 1 Gastrointestinal Disorders nausea diarrhea constipation abdominal pain vomiting dyspepsia 7 5 3 2 2 2 Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders rash [see Warnings and Precautions ] pruritus 2 1 Reproductive System and Breast Disorders vaginitis 1 † General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions edema injection site reaction chest pain 1 1 1 Table 5: Less Common (0.1 to 1%) Adverse Reactions Reported in Clinical Trials with Levofloxacin (N = 7537) * N = 7274 System/Organ Class Adverse Reaction Infections and Infestations genital moniliasis Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders anemia thrombocytopenia granulocytopenia [see Warnings and Precautions ] Immune System Disorders allergic reaction [see Warnings and Precautions ] Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders hyperglycemia hypoglycemia [see Warnings and Precautions ] hyperkalemia Psychiatric Disorders anxiety agitation confusion depression hallucination nightmare * [see Warnings and Precautions ] sleep disorder * anorexia abnormal dreaming * Nervous System Disorders tremor convulsions [see Warnings and Precautions ] paresthesia [see Warnings and Precautions ] vertigo hypertonia hyperkinesias abnormal gait somnolence * syncope Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders epistaxis Cardiac Disorders cardiac arrest palpitation ventricular tachycardia ventricular arrhythmia Vascular Disorders phlebitis Gastrointestinal Disorders gastritis stomatitis pancreatitis esophagitis gastroenteritis glossitis pseudomembranous/ C. difficile colitis [see Warnings and Precautions ] Hepatobiliary Disorders abnormal hepatic function increased hepatic enzymes increased alkaline phosphatase Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders urticaria [see Warnings and Precautions ] Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders arthralgia tendinitis [see Warnings and Precautions ] myalgia skeletal pain Renal and Urinary Disorders abnormal renal function acute renal failure [see Warnings and Precautions ] In clinical trials using multiple-dose therapy, ophthalmologic abnormalities, including cataracts and multiple punctate lenticular opacities, have been noted in patients undergoing treatment with quinolones, including levofloxacin. The relationship of the drugs to these events is not presently established. 6.3 Postmarketing Experience Table 6 lists adverse reactions that have been identified during post-approval use of levofloxacin. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Table 6: Postmarketing Reports of Adverse Drug Reactions System/Organ Class Adverse Reaction Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders pancytopenia aplastic anemia leukopenia hemolytic anemia [see Warnings and Precautions ] eosinophilia Immune System Disorders hypersensitivity reactions, sometimes fatal including: anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions anaphylactic shock angioneurotic edema serum sickness [see Warnings and Precautions ] Psychiatric Disorders psychosis paranoia isolated reports of suicidal ideation, suicide attempt and completed suicide [see Warnings and Precautions ] Nervous System Disorders exacerbation of myasthenia gravis [see Warnings and Precautions ] anosmia ageusia parosmia dysgeusia peripheral neuropathy (may be irreversible) [see Warnings and Precautions ] isolated reports of encephalopathy abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG) dysphonia pseudotumor cerebri [see Warnings and Precautions ] Eye Disorders uveitis vision disturbance, including diplopia visual acuity reduced vision blurred scotoma Ear and Labyrinth Disorders hypoacusis tinnitus Cardiac Disorders isolated reports of torsade de pointes electrocardiogram QT prolonged [see Warnings and Precautions ] tachycardia Acute myocardial ischemia with or without myocardial infarction occurring as part of an allergic reaction Vascular Disorders vasodilatation Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders isolated reports of allergic pneumonitis [see Warnings and Precautions ] Hepatobiliary Disorders hepatic failure (including fatal cases) hepatitis jaundice [see Warnings and Precautions , ] Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders bullous eruptions to include: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome toxic epidermal necrolysis Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP) fixed drug eruptions erythema multiforme [see Warnings and Precautions ] photosensitivity/phototoxicity reaction [see Warnings and Precautions ] leukocytoclastic vasculitis Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders tendon rupture [see Warnings and Precautions ] muscle injury, including rupture rhabdomyolysis Renal and Urinary Disorders interstitial nephritis [see Warnings and Precautions ] General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions multi-organ failure pyrexia Investigations prothrombin time prolonged international normalized ratio prolonged muscle enzymes increased

Interacting Drug Interaction Multivalent cation-containing products including antacids, metal cations or didanosine Do not co-administer the intravenous formulation in the same IV line with a multivalent cation, e.g., magnesium Warfarin Effect may be enhanced. Monitor prothrombin time, INR, watch for bleeding Antidiabetic agents Carefully monitor blood glucose 7.1 Chelation Agents: Antacids, Sucralfate, Metal Cations, Multivitamins Levofloxacin Injection There are no data concerning an interaction of intravenous fluoroquinolones with oral antacids, sucralfate, multivitamins, didanosine, or metal cations. However, no fluoroquinolone should be co-administered with any solution containing multivalent cations, e.g., magnesium, through the same intravenous line [see Dosage and Administration ] . 7.2 Warfarin No significant effect of levofloxacin on the peak plasma concentrations, AUC, and other disposition parameters for R- and S-warfarin was detected in a clinical study involving healthy volunteers. Similarly, no apparent effect of warfarin on levofloxacin absorption and disposition was observed. However, there have been reports during the postmarketing experience in patients that levofloxacin enhances the effects of warfarin. Elevations of the prothrombin time in the setting of concurrent warfarin and levofloxacin use have been associated with episodes of bleeding. Prothrombin time, International Normalized Ratio (INR), or other suitable anticoagulation tests should be closely monitored if levofloxacin is administered concomitantly with warfarin. Patients should also be monitored for evidence of bleeding [see Adverse Reactions ; Patient Counseling Information ]. 7.3 Antidiabetic Agents Disturbances of blood glucose, including hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, have been reported in patients treated concomitantly with fluoroquinolones and an antidiabetic agent. Therefore, careful monitoring of blood glucose is recommended when these agents are co-administered [see Warnings and Precautions ; Adverse Reactions ; Patient Counseling Information ]. 7.4 Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs The concomitant administration of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug with a fluoroquinolone, including levofloxacin, may increase the risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ]. 7.5 Theophylline No significant effect of levofloxacin on the plasma concentrations, AUC, and other disposition parameters for theophylline was detected in a clinical study involving healthy volunteers. Similarly, no apparent effect of theophylline on levofloxacin absorption and disposition was observed. However, concomitant administration of other fluoroquinolones with theophylline has resulted in prolonged elimination half-life, elevated serum theophylline levels, and a subsequent increase in the risk of theophylline-related adverse reactions in the patient population. Therefore, theophylline levels should be closely monitored and appropriate dosage adjustments made when levofloxacin is co-administered. Adverse reactions, including seizures, may occur with or without an elevation in serum theophylline levels [see Warnings and Precautions ]. 7.6 Cyclosporine No significant effect of levofloxacin on the peak plasma concentrations, AUC, and other disposition parameters for cyclosporine was detected in a clinical study involving healthy volunteers. However, elevated serum levels of cyclosporine have been reported in the patient population when co-administered with some other fluoroquinolones. Levofloxacin C max and k e were slightly lower while T max and t ½ were slightly longer in the presence of cyclosporine than those observed in other studies without concomitant medication. The differences, however, are not considered to be clinically significant. Therefore, no dosage adjustment is required for levofloxacin or cyclosporine when administered concomitantly. 7.7 Digoxin No significant effect of levofloxacin on the peak plasma concentrations, AUC, and other disposition parameters for digoxin was detected in a clinical study involving healthy volunteers. Levofloxacin absorption and disposition kinetics were similar in the presence or absence of digoxin. Therefore, no dosage adjustment for levofloxacin or digoxin is required when administered concomitantly. 7.8 Probenecid and Cimetidine No significant effect of probenecid or cimetidine on the C max of levofloxacin was observed in a clinical study involving healthy volunteers. The AUC and t 1/2 of levofloxacin were higher while CL/F and CL R were lower during concomitant treatment of levofloxacin with probenecid or cimetidine compared to levofloxacin alone. However, these changes do not warrant dosage adjustment for levofloxacin when probenecid or cimetidine is co-administered. 7.9 Interactions with Laboratory or Diagnostic Testing Some fluoroquinolones, including levofloxacin, may produce false-positive urine screening results for opiates using commercially available immunoassay kits. Confirmation of positive opiate screens by more specific methods may be necessary.

Geriatrics: Severe hepatotoxicity has been reported. The majority of reports describe patients 65 years of age or older . May have increased risk of tendinopathy (including rupture), especially with concomitant corticosteroid use . May be more susceptible to prolongation of the QT interval. . Pediatrics: Musculoskeletal disorders (arthralgia, arthritis, tendinopathy, and gait abnormality) seen in more levofloxacin-treated patients than in comparator. Shown to cause arthropathy and osteochondrosis in juvenile animals . Safety in pediatric patients treated for more than 14 days has not been studied. Risk-benefit appropriate only for the treatment of inhalational anthrax (post-exposure) and plague

Pregnancy Pregnancy Category C.

Levofloxacin was not teratogenic in rats at oral doses as high as 810 mg/kg/day which corresponds to 9.4 times the highest recommended human dose based upon relative body surface area, or at intravenous doses as high as 160 mg/kg/day corresponding to 1.9 times the highest recommended human dose based upon relative body surface area. The oral dose of 810 mg/kg/day to rats caused decreased fetal body weight and increased fetal mortality. No teratogenicity was observed when rabbits were dosed orally as high as 50 mg/kg/day which corresponds to 1.1 times the highest recommended human dose based upon relative body surface area, or when dosed intravenously as high as 25 mg/kg/day, corresponding to 0.5 times the highest recommended human dose based upon relative body surface area. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Levofloxacin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. 8.3 Nursing Mothers Based on data on other fluoroquinolones and very limited data on levofloxacin, it can be presumed that levofloxacin will be excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions from levofloxacin in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. 8.4 Pediatric Use Quinolones, including levofloxacin, cause arthropathy and osteochondrosis in juvenile animals of several species. [see Warnings and Precautions and Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology ]. Pharmacokinetics following intravenous administration The pharmacokinetics of levofloxacin following a single intravenous dose were investigated in pediatric patients ranging in age from six months to 16 years. Pediatric patients cleared levofloxacin faster than adult patients resulting in lower plasma exposures than adults for a given mg/kg dose [see Clinical Pharmacology and Clinical Studies ]. Inhalational Anthrax (Post-Exposure) Levofloxacin is indicated in pediatric patients 6 months of age and older, for inhalational anthrax (post-exposure). The risk-benefit assessment indicates that administration of levofloxacin to pediatric patients is appropriate. The safety of levofloxacin in pediatric patients treated for more than 14 days has not been studied [see Indications and Usage , Dosage and Administration and Clinical Studies ]. Plague Levofloxacin is indicated in pediatric patients, 6 months of age and older, for treatment of plague, including pneumonic and septicemic plague due to Yersinia pestis ( Y. pestis ) and prophylaxis for plague. Efficacy studies of levofloxacin could not be conducted in humans with pneumonic plague for ethical and feasibility reasons. Therefore, approval of this indication was based on an efficacy study conducted in animals. The risk-benefit assessment indicates that administration of levofloxacin to pediatric patients is appropriate [see I ndications and Usage , Dosage and Administration and Clinical Studies ] . Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of six months have not been established. Adverse Events In clinical trials, 1534 children (6 months to 16 years of age) were treated with oral and intravenous levofloxacin. Children 6 months to 5 years of age received levofloxacin 10 mg/kg twice a day and children greater than 5 years of age received 10 mg/kg once a day (maximum 500 mg per day) for approximately 10 days. A subset of children in the clinical trials (1340 levofloxacin-treated and 893 non-fluoroquinolone-treated) enrolled in a prospective, long-term surveillance study to assess the incidence of protocol-defined musculoskeletal disorders (arthralgia, arthritis, tendinopathy, gait abnormality) during 60 days and 1 year following the first dose of the study drug. Children treated with levofloxacin had a significantly higher incidence of musculoskeletal disorders when compared to the non-fluoroquinolone-treated children as illustrated in Table 7. Table 7: Incidence of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Pediatric Clinical Trial Follow-up Period Levofloxacin N = 1340 Non-Fluoroquinolone* N = 893 p-value † * Non-Fluoroquinolone: ceftriaxone, amoxicillin/clavulanate, clarithromycin † 2-sided Fisher’s Exact Test ‡ There were 1199 levofloxacin-treated and 804 non-fluoroquinolone-treated children who had a one-year evaluation visit. However, the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders was calculated using all reported events during the specified period for all children enrolled regardless of whether they completed the 1-year evaluation visit. 60 days 28 (2.1%) 8 (0.9%) p = 0.038 1 year ‡ 46 (3.4%) 16 (1.8%) p = 0.025 Arthralgia was the most frequently occurring musculoskeletal disorder in both treatment groups. Most of the musculoskeletal disorders in both groups involved multiple weight-bearing joints. Disorders were moderate in 8/46 (17%) children and mild in 35/46 (76%) levofloxacin-treated children and most were treated with analgesics. The median time to resolution was 7 days for levofloxacin-treated children and 9 for non-fluoroquinolone-treated children (approximately 80% resolved within 2 months in both groups). No child had a severe or serious disorder and all musculoskeletal disorders resolved without sequelae. Vomiting and diarrhea were the most frequently reported adverse events, occurring in similar frequency in the levofloxacin-treated and non-fluoroquinolone-treated children. In addition to the events reported in pediatric patients in clinical trials, events reported in adults during clinical trials or post-marketing experience [see Adverse Reactions ] may also be expected to occur in pediatric patients. 8.5 Geriatric Use Geriatric patients are at increased risk for developing severe tendon disorders including tendon rupture when being treated with a fluoroquinolone such as levofloxacin. This risk is further increased in patients receiving concomitant corticosteroid therapy. Tendinitis or tendon rupture can involve the Achilles, hand, shoulder, or other tendon sites and can occur during or after completion of therapy; cases occurring up to several months after fluoroquinolone treatment have been reported. Caution should be used when prescribing levofloxacin to elderly patients especially those on corticosteroids. Patients should be informed of this potential side effect and advised to discontinue levofloxacin and contact their healthcare provider if any symptoms of tendinitis or tendon rupture occur [see Boxed Warning ; Warnings and Precautions ; and Adverse Reactions ] . In Phase 3 clinical trials, 1,945 levofloxacin-treated patients (26%) were ≥ 65 years of age. Of these, 1,081 patients (14%) were between the ages of 65 and 74 and 864 patients (12%) were 75 years or older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. Severe, and sometimes fatal, cases of hepatotoxicity have been reported post-marketing in association with levofloxacin. The majority of fatal hepatotoxicity reports occurred in patients 65 years of age or older and most were not associated with hypersensitivity. Levofloxacin should be discontinued immediately if the patient develops signs and symptoms of hepatitis [see Warnings and Precautions ]. Epidemiologic studies report an increased rate of aortic aneurysm and dissection within two months following use of fluoroquinolones, particularly in elderly patients [see Warnings and Precautions ] . Elderly patients may be more susceptible to drug-associated effects on the QT interval. Therefore, precaution should be taken when using levofloxacin with concomitant drugs that can result in prolongation of the QT interval (e.g., Class IA or Class III antiarrhythmics) or in patients with risk factors for torsade de pointes (e.g., known QT prolongation, uncorrected hypokalemia) [see Warnings and Precautions ]. The pharmacokinetic properties of levofloxacin in younger adults and elderly adults do not differ significantly when creatinine clearance is taken into consideration. However, since the drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function [see Clinical Pharmacology ] . 8.6 Renal Impairment Clearance of levofloxacin is substantially reduced and plasma elimination half-life is substantially prolonged in patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min), requiring dosage adjustment in such patients to avoid accumulation. Neither hemodialysis nor continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is effective in removal of levofloxacin from the body, indicating that supplemental doses of levofloxacin are not required following hemodialysis or CAPD [see Dosage and Administration ]. 8.7 Hepatic Impairment Pharmacokinetic studies in hepatically impaired patients have not been conducted. Due to the limited extent of levofloxacin metabolism, the pharmacokinetics of levofloxacin are not expected to be affected by hepatic impairment.