Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Levofloxacin 500

Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing DNA replication and repair.

Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing DNA replication and repair. Used for Community-acquired pneumonia, Acute bacterial sinusitis, Complicated urinary tract infections.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

DNA gyrase is a type II topoisomerase that introduces negative supercoils into DNA, while topoisomerase IV decatenates DNA, both essential for bacterial survival and proliferation. By inhibiting these enzymes, levofloxacin effectively kills bacteria.

Approved indications

• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Acute bacterial sinusitis
• Complicated urinary tract infections

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache

Key clinical trials

• Prevalence of Asymptomatic H Pylori Infection Among Patients Undergoing PCI and Impact of Its Eradication on Occurrence of GIT Symptoms and Bleeding" (PHASE3)
• Antibiotics vs Corticosteroids in Treatment of Granulomatous Lobular Mastitis (PHASE1, PHASE2)
• Oral Antimicrobial Treatment vs. Outpatient Parenteral for Infective Endocarditis (PHASE4)
• Oral Switch During Treatment of Left-sided Endocarditis Due to Multi-susceptible Staphylococcus (PHASE3)
• Assessing Role of Probiotics in Children Aged 6-36 Months Treated for Pneumonia (NA)
• Levofloxacin Prophylaxis to Prevent First Febrile Neutropenia in Pediatric ALL During Induction Phase (PHASE4)
• Efficiency of Antibacterial Prophylaxis in Azacitidine Treated Patients (PHASE3)
• Pharmacokinetic Study of Antiretroviral Drugs and Related Drugs During and After Pregnancy

Primary sources

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