Does levofloxacin have an effect on the liver?

Levofloxacin may cause transient liver function abnormalities such as elevated serum aminotransferases and elevated serum bilirubin.

Levofloxacin is a quinolone drug, which has strong antibacterial activity against most Enterobacteriaceae bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, Salmonella and other gram-negative bacteria. It also has antibacterial effect on gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia pneumoniae.

Levofloxacin is hepatotoxic, and post-marketing reports of severe hepatotoxicity have been received in patients treated with levofloxacin. Laboratory tests may reveal abnormal liver function, such as elevated serum aminotransferases and elevated blood bilirubin. If the patient develops signs and symptoms of hepatitis, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and dyspepsia, levofloxacin should be stopped immediately.

Serious adverse reactions of the drug include, but are not limited to, tendonitis and tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, effects of the central nervous system.

It should be noted that the drug is forbidden for pregnant and lactating women, and it is forbidden for children younger than 18 years old.

The drug needs to be used under the guidance of a doctor, and it is important not to blindly use the drug on your own to avoid adverse consequences.