You should not use Levaquin if you are allergic to levofloxacin or similar antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro), moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), and others.

Before taking Levaquin, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, myasthenia gravis, joint problems, seizures or epilepsy, diabetes, low levels of potassium in your blood (hypokalemia), or a personal or family history of "Long QT syndrome."

Avoid taking antacids, vitamin or mineral supplements, sucralfate (Carafate), or didanosine (Videx) powder or chewable tablets within 2 hours before or after you take Levaquin. These other medicines can make Levaquin much less effective when taken at the same time.

Taking levofloxacin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid exposure to sunlight, sun lamps, or tanning beds.

Levaquin may cause swelling or tearing of a tendon (the fiber that connects bones to muscles in the body), especially in the Achilles' tendon of the heel. These effects may be more likely to occur if you are over 60, if you take an oral steroid medication, or if you have had a kidney, heart, or lung transplant. Stop taking Levaquin and call your doctor at once if you have sudden pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, or movement problems in any of your joints. Rest the joint until you receive medical care or instructions. Do not share Levaquin with another person (especially a child), even if they have the same symptoms you have.