What Is Levaquin Prescribed For?

Levaquin® (levofloxacin) is prescribed for preventing infection after exposure to inhaled anthrax in adults and children. It is also used for treating various types of infections in adults, including:
 
This medication is approved for treating the infections listed only when they are caused by certain types of bacteria. Not all bacteria will respond to Levaquin. Also, bacteria have different resistance patterns in different regions of the country. This means that some bacteria may be susceptible to Levaquin in certain parts of the country but not in others.
 
Levaquin is completely ineffective for treating viral illnesses such as the common cold or the flu.
 
(Click What Is Levaquin Used For? for more information on what Levaquin is prescribed for, how this medication works, and possible off-label uses.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;