Generic
Dexamethasone + Levofloxacin
3 brands available in the market
At a glance
Dexamethasone + Levofloxacin is an ophthalmic solution used for the prevention and treatment of inflammation and prevention of infection associated with cataract surgery in adults.
Description
Levofloxacin is a synthetic third-generation fluoroquinolone anti-bacterial agent that inhibits the supercoiling activity of bacterial DNA gyrase, halting DNA replication. Dexamethasone Phosphate inhibits phospholipase A2, the first step in prostaglandin synthesis, and inhibits the chemotactic infiltration of neutrophils into the site of inflammation.
Indications
- Prevention and treatment of inflammation after cataract surgery
- Prevention of bacterial infection
Therapeutic class
Ophthalmic steroid - antibiotic combined preparations
Pharmacological class
Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic + Corticosteroid
Pharmacology
Levofloxacin is a synthetic third-generation fluoroquinolone anti-bacterial agent that inhibits the supercoiling activity of bacterial DNA gyrase, halting DNA replication. Dexamethasone Phosphate inhibits phospholipase A2, the first step in prostaglandin synthesis, and inhibits chemotactic infiltration of neutrophils.
Mechanism of action
Levofloxacin kills bacteria by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase; Dexamethasone reduces inflammation by inhibiting phospholipase A2.
Dosage
Adult: 1 drop into the conjunctival sac after surgery every 6 hours for 7 days.
Administration
Wash hands thoroughly. Pull down lower eyelid to create a 'pocket', tilt head back and instill 1 drop. Press finger into the corner of the eye by the nose (to stop medicine getting into the rest of the body).
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed dose.
Side effects
Common: Eye irritation, ocular hypertension, headache.
Other: Increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, corneal thinning, corneal perforation (in some cases).
Precautions & warnings
For ocular use only. Prolonged use may induce antibiotic resistance and fungal infections. If infection develops, discontinue treatment. Diabetics are more prone to subcapsular cataracts following prolonged topical steroid use.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity; herpes simplex keratitis, varicella, other viral diseases of cornea and conjunctiva; mycobacterial infections of the eye; fungal diseases of ocular structures.
Drug interactions
Ocular NSAIDs (ketorolac, diclofenac, bromfenac, nepafenac): May increase potential for healing problems in the eye.
Ritonavir, cobicistat: May increase dexamethasone blood levels.
Probenecid, cimetidine, cyclosporin: May change absorption and metabolism of levofloxacin.
Food interactions
Can be used with or without food.
Use in pregnancy
There are limited data on the use of Dexamethasone and Levofloxacin in pregnant women. Corticosteroids cross the placenta. Prolonged or repeated use may increase risk of lower birth weight and hypertension in adulthood.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Dexamethasone and Levofloxacin are excreted into human milk. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Pediatric use
Not recommended for children and adolescents below 18 years (lack of safety and efficacy data).
Geriatric use
No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No special precautions are necessary for patients with kidney or liver problems.
Overdose effects
Overdose through local or accidental oral administration is not likely.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C and dry place, away from light. Do not use after 1 month of first opening.
Chemical structure
Dexamethasone + Levofloxacin