Infecur

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Infecur

Property Description
Active Ingredient Levofloxacin
Form Tablet, Oral/IV/Ophthalmic Solution
Pharmacological Class Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic
General Purpose Eliminate bacterial pathogens
Origin Synthetic Compound (S-(-) Isomer)

Infecur is a pharmaceutical preparation classified as a systemic antibiotic belonging to the third-generation fluoroquinolone drug class. This medicine utilizes the active substance Levofloxacin, which is a synthetic compound and is globally recognized as an essential medicine.

The classification as a fluoroquinolone antimicrobial signifies its potent mechanism of action against a broad range of bacterial threats. A key differentiating factor is that Levofloxacin is the isolated S-(-) isomer of the older, racemic drug ofloxacin, a chemical refinement which results in enhanced clinical potency. The general purpose of this specific class is to function as a powerful bactericidal agent, ensuring the elimination of causative bacteria of an infection.

Infecur is provided as a single-ingredient product in multiple dosage forms to accommodate different clinical needs and routes of administration. These forms include oral tablets and oral solution for self-administration, as well as a sterile intravenous (IV) solution for parenteral delivery in urgent or institutional settings. This structural flexibility makes Infecur a critical agent in managing complex infections where a broad spectrum and potent, cell-killing effect is required.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines, 2023

What side effects are possible with Infecur?

Infecur: Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Infecur is defined by official government warnings regarding disabling and potentially permanent serious adverse reactions which may affect the tendons, muscles, joints, nerves, and central nervous system. These serious side effects can occur rapidly, sometimes after the first dose, or up to several months after treatment is stopped.

Safety Restrictions and Serious Adverse Reactions

Official regulatory bodies require this drug to be reserved for use in patients with certain infections, such as acute sinusitis or uncomplicated urinary tract infections, only when alternative treatments are not available. This restriction is based on the risk of the serious adverse reactions generally outweighing the benefits for these mild-to-moderate conditions.

Serious adverse reactions documented in regulatory sources include:

  • Musculoskeletal and Peripheral Nervous System: Tendinitis, tendon rupture (e.g., Achilles), joint pain and swelling, and peripheral neuropathy (tingling, numbness, burning pain).
  • Central Nervous System (CNS) and Psychiatric: Seizures, increased intracranial pressure, psychosis, hallucinations, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and confusion.
  • Other Clinically Significant Reactions: Aortic aneurysm and dissection, severe liver injury, severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) that can lead to coma, and severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome).

Common and Less Common Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are classified by frequency as follows:

Classification Examples of Reactions
Common Nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness.
Uncommon Vomiting, abdominal pain, rash, pruritus, insomnia, somnolence, tremor, agitation.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

Regulatory information specifies that certain groups may be at increased risk for adverse effects:

  • Elderly patients are at a higher risk for tendon disorders, QT interval prolongation, and severe hepatic reactions.
  • Patients with myasthenia gravis may experience an exacerbation of muscle weakness.
  • Patients receiving systemic corticosteroids have an increased risk of tendon damage.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help: Official Regulatory Information for Infecur


Documented Overdose Presentations

Overexposure to Infecur (Levofloxacin) is officially documented in regulatory information to affect the Central Nervous System, Cardiovascular, Musculoskeletal, and Metabolic systems. Documented manifestations include tremors, confusion, convulsions (seizures), hallucinations, and gastrointestinal signs like nausea and vomiting. Cardiac effects may involve prolongation of the QT interval.

Severe Outcomes and Required Actions

Severe outcomes include life-threatening conditions such as the potential for Torsade de Pointes, a serious heart rhythm abnormality, and acute fatal hepatotoxicity. Systemic overexposure may also result in severe hypoglycemia that can progress to coma. Immediate medical attention is required for any sign of Tendon Rupture, severe hypoglycemia (e.g., loss of consciousness), or anaphylactic reactions. Patients must discontinue the medication immediately upon the first signs of Peripheral Neuropathy or Tendinitis.


Management and Special Considerations

Management protocols are strictly confined to symptomatic and supportive treatment. Official regulatory documents state there is no specific antidote for Levofloxacin overdose, and the substance is not effectively removed by dialysis. ECG monitoring and careful observation of blood glucose levels are required. Older patients and those with reduced renal function are identified as having increased susceptibility to severe complications.

Therapeutic Uses of Infecur

This medicine is commonly used to address infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Its therapeutic utility is focused on addressing infections by eliminating these pathogens to help reduce the overall burden of acute, or complicated symptomatic manifestations. The medication is applied across a wide range of bacterial conditions.

Infecur is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes characterized by heightened symptoms, including Community-Acquired Pneumonia, Acute Pyelonephritis (kidney infection), Acute Bacterial Sinusitis, and both complicated and uncomplicated Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (SSSI). Additionally, it plays a role in managing conditions requiring extended treatment, such as Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis, and may be utilized in high-risk public health scenarios like post-exposure management of Anthrax and Plague.

The use of this medicine may contribute to symptomatic relief, which helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes and supports functional stability.

“Applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, this medication supports the patient during episodes of heightened discomfort.”

Quick Fact: Relief for Systemic Discomfort The medicine is relevant for managing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, such as high fever and chills, that accompany conditions marked by increased physiological stress. This helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Profile for Infecur (Levofloxacin)

The population eligibility for Infecur is strictly defined by regulatory authorities and is based on a patient’s age, pre-existing conditions, and sensitivity to quinolones. Use is generally approved for adults 18 years of age and older.

Absolute Contraindications

Infecur must not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Levofloxacin or any other quinolone antimicrobial agents. It is also contraindicated in individuals with a history of tendon disorders related to previous fluoroquinolone use and in patients with known epilepsy.

Population-Specific Restrictions

Population Group Regulatory Status
Pediatric Patients (<18 years) Not recommended due to musculoskeletal risks. Reserved only for severe, specific infections (e.g., Anthrax) [FDA/EMA].
Pregnancy and Lactation Not recommended or Contraindicated [EMA/FDA].
Renal Impairment Use is permitted, but conditional on dose adjustment based on kidney function.
Myasthenia Gravis Not recommended; may exacerbate muscle weakness.

Use is restricted for certain uncomplicated infections and is generally avoided in patients with known aortic aneurysm risk or existing QT interval prolongation.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Infecur, which contains the active substance Levofloxacin, has officially documented interaction patterns primarily categorized by either pharmacokinetic alteration or pharmacodynamic potentiation, as stated in regulatory labeling.

Pharmacokinetic Interactions

Co-administration with multivalent cation-containing products significantly reduces the oral absorption of Infecur. These products include antacids (containing aluminum or magnesium), Sucralfate, and supplements containing iron or zinc. To prevent this documented reduction in exposure, regulatory rules require that oral Infecur must not be taken within two hours of these substances.

Conversely, substances that inhibit renal tubular secretion, such as Probenecid or Cimetidine, reduce the clearance of Levofloxacin, resulting in a documented increase in the plasma concentration and systemic exposure.

Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Certain combinations carry an additive risk. Co-administration with Corticosteroids increases the risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture. Use with other agents known to prolong the QT interval (e.g., Class IA and III antiarrhythmics) is generally avoided due to the additive risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias. The effect of Warfarin may be enhanced, requiring documented monitoring of Prothrombin Time and INR. Additionally, co-administration with Antidiabetic Agents has a documented association with blood glucose disturbances. In the geriatric population, the risk of tendinopathy and QT interval prolongation is officially noted as heightened during these specific co-administrations.

Mechanism of Action

Infecur (Levofloxacin) exerts its specific mechanism by acting within two critical mechanistic domains of the bacterial cell. This action is bactericidal, resulting in the structural destruction of susceptible bacterial cells. Infecur's primary mechanism involves the precise inhibition of two distinct bacterial enzymes: DNA gyrase and Topoisomerase IV. These molecules are absolutely required for managing the physical structure of the bacterial cell's DNA, controlling its unwinding, replication, and subsequent segregation during cell division. By binding to and blocking these targets, the drug interferes with the core genetic machinery, leading to the destabilization of the bacterial genome. The blocking of the target enzymes initiates a cascade resulting in the promotion and accumulation of lethal double-stranded DNA breaks. This irreparable fragmentation of the chromosome, combined with the arrest of cell division, triggers the complete functional collapse of the bacterial cell. The physiological consequence of this targeted genetic assault is the structural damage and subsequent inactivation of the bacterial population in a concentration-dependent manner.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Infecur — Administration Guidelines

Infecur is administered by two primary routes: by mouth (oral tablet or solution) or via intravenous (IV) infusion into a vein. The correct dosage is a specific amount (milligrams) calculated based on the patient's weight (mg/kg) for both adults and pediatric patients, and it must be taken or administered at scheduled intervals over a duration determined by the prescribing physician.


Oral Administration Instructions

Administration Aspect Instruction
Timing with Meals Take the medicine at least one hour before or two hours after eating a meal.
Preparation The oral solution must be shaken well before measuring each dose.
Procedural Note Avoid taking products containing multivalent cations (e.g., iron, calcium, or magnesium) for a two-hour window around the time you take Infecur, as these can interfere with absorption.
Missed Dose If a dose is missed, take it as soon as it is remembered. However, if the next scheduled dose is due within a specific time (e.g., 6 hours), skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Intravenous (IV) Administration

The IV solution must be administered by a healthcare professional.

Administration Aspect Instruction
Preparation The medicine must be diluted in a specific compatible solution prior to administration.
Procedural Note Must be given as a slow, controlled infusion over a minimum time period (e.g., 60 minutes). It must not be given as a rapid injection or mixed with other medicines in the IV line.

These instructions define the standardized protocol for using the medicine. Strict adherence to the rules concerning dosing frequency, preparation, and timing relative to meals is essential to maintain the correct medicine level in the body.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Infecur

This overview describes the official research evidence for Infecur (Levofloxacin), focusing on the types of studies conducted, what outcomes researchers have monitored, and areas where evidence is still emerging. It does not provide medical advice or instructions on use.


Evidence for Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP)

Research exploring the use of Infecur for Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) has primarily used large-scale Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). These studies monitored Clinical Response and Microbiologic Eradication Rates in adult patients. In non-inferiority trials, studies reported measurements that were observed between the Levofloxacin arms and standard comparator regimens. The evidence mainly provides context within a defined margin relative to other therapies studied. Long-term follow-up durations were limited to the immediate post-treatment period, and data are still emerging for certain patient groups, such as those with severe kidney issues.


Evidence for Acute Kidney and Urinary Tract Infections

Infecur was evaluated in the setting of Acute Pyelonephritis and complicated Urinary Tract Infections (cUTI). The main outcomes that studies monitored were Microbiological Eradication and Clinical Response. Findings in this area describe patterns observed in studies involving established antimicrobial classes. However, the evidence quality varies across studies, and there is limited information for long-term outcomes regarding the recurrence rate of these infections after the initial treatment course.


Evidence for Complicated Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

The research for Complicated Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (cSSTI) includes randomized trials that evaluated Clinical Success Rates and Overall Microbiologic Eradication Rate. Studies reported success rates that were observed to be within the defined margin of those achieved by other established treatments, supporting the classification of therapeutic equivalence. What remains uncertain is that some comparative trials utilized an open-label design, which may influence the assessment of subjective patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort.


Evidence in Different Patient Groups (Special Populations)

The primary clinical trials for Infecur predominantly enrolled adult populations. Researchers have explored populations stratified by the severity of their infection. However, data for certain groups remain insufficient. For instance, patient groups with severe co-existing conditions were frequently excluded from primary RCTs. This means that research focusing on the outcomes related to physiological strain or stress in these patient populations appears to be limited.

Key Studies & References

  1. Respiratory fluoroquinolones for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
  2. Fluoroquinolones compared with β-lactam antibiotics for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
  3. A Multicenter, Randomized, Open-Label Study to Compare the Safety and Efficacy of i.v. And/Or Oral Levofloxacin With That of Ticarcillin/Clavulanate... in the Treatment of Complicated Bacterial Skin and Skin Structure Infections (NCT00249197)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Infecur (FAQ)


Q: What is the main reason doctors prescribe Infecur?

A: Infecur is indicated for use in adults (18 years and older) to treat specific bacterial infections, such as certain types of pneumonia, skin infections, and urinary tract infections, when they are caused by susceptible bacteria. Regulatory warnings note that for milder conditions, official guidance indicates the drug is reserved only for patients who do not have alternative treatment options due to the risk of serious side effects.

Q: Why does Infecur need a prescription?

A: Infecur is legally classified as a prescription-only medicine (Rx Only) by global regulatory bodies. This requirement is due to the drug’s potent mechanism of action and the necessary measures to control the development of antibiotic resistance. The prescribing process ensures a healthcare professional assesses the risks and benefits for each individual before use.

Q: How long does it typically take for Infecur to start working?

A: Official studies on the active substance, Levofloxacin, show it is rapidly and almost completely absorbed after being taken by mouth. Peak concentrations in the blood are typically reached one to two hours after a dose. The overall clinical effect—how quickly a person feels better—is monitored by a healthcare professional as part of the total treatment plan.

Q: Can Infecur be taken long-term?

A: Infecur is intended for the treatment of acute bacterial infections and is typically prescribed for short courses. The duration of treatment, which ranges from 5 to 14 days, is determined by the specific infection and the patient’s condition. Continuous, long-term use is not indicated in the approved regulatory labeling for this medicine.

Q: Is there a generic version of Infecur available?

A: Yes, the active ingredient in Infecur, which is Levofloxacin, is available in generic versions. These generic products are approved by regulatory bodies, subject to the local market availability and patent status of the drug.

Q: What if I take Infecur and forget to tell my doctor about a supplement I use?

A: Official guidance recommends that patients inform their healthcare provider about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements they are taking. This is especially important for products containing multivalent cations, such as iron, calcium, or zinc. Regulatory rules state that these substances can significantly reduce the absorption of Infecur, potentially lowering its effectiveness.

Q: Can Infecur be cut in half or crushed?

A: The official instructions for the tablet formulation do not specify scoring or crushing the tablet for administration. Regulatory guidance indicates that the tablets should generally be swallowed whole. For patients who cannot swallow tablets, the oral solution is the indicated alternative form of the medicine.

Q: What happens if I stop taking Infecur suddenly?

A: Official patient instructions describe the importance of completing the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms begin to improve quickly. Stopping the medicine too soon can allow the remaining bacteria to continue to grow, which may lead to the infection returning or potentially developing resistance to the drug.

Q: How long does Infecur stay in your system after you stop taking it?

A: Pharmacokinetic studies summarized in the official label show that the time it takes for the amount of medicine in the blood to be reduced by half (the mean terminal plasma elimination half-life) is approximately 6 to 8 hours. The drug is primarily removed from the body, unchanged, through the urine.

Q: Does Infecur affect birth control pills?

A: Official information from health authorities, including the CDC, states that non-rifamycin antibiotics, such as Infecur, are generally not confirmed to reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. However, if a person experiences side effects like severe vomiting or diarrhea while taking Infecur, those events could potentially affect the absorption of an oral contraceptive pill.

Q: What is the risk of a severe allergic reaction to Infecur?

A: Official regulatory warnings state that severe, occasionally fatal, hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported with Infecur. These reactions can sometimes occur rapidly, even after the first dose. Official warnings include that patients experiencing signs of a serious allergic reaction should discontinue the medicine and immediately seek emergency medical assistance.

Q: Is Infecur used to prevent conditions, or just treat them?

A: Infecur is primarily indicated in official labeling for the treatment of established bacterial infections. However, the label also includes specific indications where the drug is used for prophylaxis (prevention), such as after exposure to certain dangerous pathogens like anthrax.

Q: Where can I find the official patient information leaflet for Infecur?

A: The official patient information leaflet, known as the Medication Guide (in the US) or the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) (in the EU/UK), is dispensed along with the medicine by the pharmacist. This document can also be found online and downloaded from official regulatory body websites.

Q: Are there any reported interactions between Infecur and alcohol?

A: Regulatory documents do not explicitly list a direct chemical interaction between Infecur and alcohol. However, both the medicine and alcohol can potentially cause side effects that affect the central nervous system, such as dizziness and drowsiness. Using them together may increase the risk or severity of these types of side effects.

Q: Why do official sources list so many possible side effects for Infecur?

A: Regulatory bodies require that official documents list a broad range of side effects to ensure patient awareness of all documented risks. This requirement is especially critical for Infecur because of the required warnings regarding disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse reactions affecting tendons, nerves, and the central nervous system. This ensures transparency about all safety data collected.

Q: Can men and women use Infecur for the same conditions?

A: Yes, the approved indications for Infecur are based on the type of bacterial infection being treated, not on the sex of the patient. Regulatory labeling states that the established dosage and indications are generally the same for adult men and adult women.

Q: What should I tell my pharmacist about when getting Infecur?

A: Official patient guidance states that patients should inform their pharmacist and prescribing doctor about their full medical history. This includes any history of tendon problems related to previous quinolone use, known epilepsy or seizures, conditions that cause muscle weakness (myasthenia gravis), diabetes, or a history of heart rhythm problems (QT interval prolongation).

Q: Is Infecur available over the counter in any country?

A: No, Infecur (Levofloxacin) is a potent medicine classified as a prescription-only medicine globally. Its use requires a professional risk assessment and monitoring due to the potential for serious side effects and the need to manage antibiotic resistance.

Q: What does the ingredient list of Infecur include besides the active substance?

A: In addition to the active ingredient, Levofloxacin, the product contains inactive ingredients, also called excipients. These can include substances like microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, and coloring agents for the tablets. The complete and official list of all ingredients is detailed in the regulatory label.

Q: Does Infecur have a known potential for dependence?

A: Official regulatory documents, including those that specifically address drug abuse and dependence, do not report evidence of physical dependence, tolerance, or abuse potential associated with the use of Infecur (Levofloxacin).

Q: Is Infecur a new medication?

A: Infecur (Levofloxacin) is not considered a new medication; it was initially approved for use in the U.S. in 1996. It is a chemically refined version (the S-(-) isomer) of the older antibiotic drug Ofloxacin, and it is listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines.

Q: What is the average duration of treatment with Infecur?

A: The duration of treatment with Infecur is determined by the specific type and severity of the infection being treated. Official prescribing information describes treatment courses that generally range from 5 days for some acute infections up to 14 days for more severe conditions like Community Acquired Pneumonia.

Q: Does Infecur cause sensitivity to sunlight?

A: Yes, official regulatory information indicates that Infecur can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, a condition known as photosensitivity. Official warnings recommend limiting sun exposure and avoiding tanning beds or sunlamps during and for a period after taking the medicine.

Q: What is the legal classification of Infecur?

A: Infecur is legally classified as a Prescription-Only Medicine (POM) by regulatory authorities, meaning it can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a doctor. Its pharmacological classification is a third-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic.

Q: Can I get Infecur from an online pharmacy?

A: Infecur requires a valid prescription from a healthcare professional. It can be dispensed by a licensed online pharmacy if that pharmacy operates legally and verifies the authenticity of the prescription.

How should Infecur be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Infecur

Infecur (Levofloxacin) must be stored and disposed of according to official regulatory requirements to maintain product stability and ensure public safety.


Official Storage Conditions

Requirement Status
Temperature Store at room temperature.
Protection Protect from freezing, moisture, and direct light.
Container Keep in a closed container with an unbroken seal.

Handling and Disposal

The medicine must be kept out of the reach and sight of children. Do not keep or use outdated medicine. Levofloxacin is not on the FDA's list of medicines to be flushed. Unused or expired product should be disposed of using a drug take-back program or by mixing it with an undesirable substance in a sealed container before placing it in the household trash. Empty packaging must have all personal information scratched out prior to disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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