Levofloxacin — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database · 247CanITakeWith Editorial Team
- Levofloxacin is a Fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for Chest infections.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol with levofloxacin — alcohol impairs recovery and may compound levofloxacin's risks of tendon damage and CNS side effects.
About Levofloxacin
Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic with an FDA black box warning for tendon damage, peripheral neuropathy, and CNS effects. Reserved for infections where other antibiotics are not suitable.
Also sold as: Tavanic, Levaquin
Levofloxacin at a glance
Levofloxacin is classed as fluoroquinolone antibiotic and is used for chest infections, utis, skin infections, atypical pneumonia. It is a prescription medicine, so doses and combinations should always be agreed with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Typical adult dosing guidance: 250-750mg once daily. Your own label or prescription always takes priority over general figures.
Interactions most often flagged
- Alcohol
- Dairy
- Antacids
- Pregnancy (avoid)
Before you combine Levofloxacin with anything new
- Read the patient information leaflet for both products.
- Keep one up-to-date list of every medicine and supplement you take.
- Ask a pharmacist — it is free and takes a couple of minutes.
- Seek urgent medical help if you feel seriously unwell after combining medicines.
Levofloxacin and Alcohol
Avoid alcohol with levofloxacin — alcohol impairs recovery and may compound levofloxacin's risks of tendon damage and CNS side effects.
Full guide →More in this category: antibiotics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Levofloxacin used for?
Levofloxacin is a Fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for Chest infections, UTIs, Skin infections, Atypical pneumonia.
What is the maximum adult dose of Levofloxacin?
The maximum adult dose is 250-750mg once daily. This is general guidance — always follow the dose on your prescription or product label, and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Levofloxacin?
Avoid alcohol with levofloxacin — alcohol impairs recovery and may compound levofloxacin's risks of tendon damage and CNS side effects.
Is Levofloxacin available over the counter in the UK?
Levofloxacin is prescription-only in the UK.
What should I check before taking Levofloxacin with other medicines?
The interactions most often flagged for Levofloxacin are: alcohol, dairy, antacids, pregnancy (avoid). Tell your pharmacist or prescriber about everything you take, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, before combining it with anything new.
What are the brand names for Levofloxacin?
Levofloxacin is sold under brand names including Tavanic, Levaquin. The active ingredient is the same, so check labels carefully to avoid doubling up on it.
Do I need a prescription for Levofloxacin?
Levofloxacin is a prescription medicine, so take it exactly as your prescriber directed and ask them before changing the dose.
Not sure if Levofloxacin is safe with your other medications?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.