The empirical formula is C18H20FN3O4 * ˝ H2O and the molecular weight is 370.38. Levofloxacin is a light yellowish-white to yellow-white crystal or crystalline powder. The molecule exists as a zwitterion at the pH conditions in the small intestine.

Solubility Vs. pH Level/Acid-Alkaline Balance

The data demonstrate that from pH 0.6 to 5.8, the solubility of levofloxacin is essentially constant (approximately 100 mg/mL). Levofloxacin is considered soluble to freely soluble in this pH range, as defined by USP nomenclature. Above pH 5.8, the solubility increases rapidly to its maximum at pH 6.7 (272 mg/mL) and is considered freely soluble in this range. Above pH 6.7, the solubility decreases and reaches a minimum value (about 50 mg/mL) at a pH of approximately 6.9.

Levofloxacin has the potential to form stable coordination compounds with many metal ions. This in vitro chelation potential has the following formation order: Al+3 (Aluminum) > Cu+2 (Copper) > Fe+? (Iron) Zn+2 (Zinc)> Mg+2 (Magnesium) > Ca+2 (Calcium). (http://www.rxlist.com/levaquin-drug.htm)

This last statement indicates that Levofloxacin (ingredients therein) in test tube trials demonstrates the potential ability to bond to and remove several mineral-metal ions from the body that are vital to health and well being. see (*)

(*) Iron, calcium, copper, zinc, or magnesium can attach to levofloxacin and other fluoroquinolones and prevent their absorption from the intestine into the blood. The "front line" of the body's immune system is the gastrointestinal tract. (http://www.medicinenet.com/levofloxacin/article.htm)

Other drugs that contain these minerals and can similarly interact with levofloxacin include sucralfate (Carafate) and didanosine (Videx, Videx EC).

Here is another link where we find further information about additional nutrients that are depleted from the body by fluoroquinolones, namely biotin, vitamins B1, 2, 3, 6, 12 and healthy intestinal bacteria with zinc being mentioned once again. (http://www.invitehealth.com/page.htm?PG=Drug_Depletion)

Taking nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with levofloxacin may increase the risk of CNS (Central Nervous System) stimulation, resulting in over-excitation. There have been reports of changes in blood sugar (increases and decreases) in patients treated with fluoroquinolones and antidiabetic agents. Fluoroquinolones may increase blood levels of theophylline (Theodur), cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral), and the effect of warfarin (Coumadin).

PREGNANCY: Levofloxacin is not recommended for use in pregnant women since levofloxacin causes joint and bone deformities in juvenile animals of several species.

NURSING MOTHERS: Levofloxacin is not recommended for use in lactating women because of the likelihood that, like other fluoroquinolones, levofloxacin is excreted in breast-milk.

SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequently reported side events are nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and constipation. Less common side effects include difficulty sleeping, dizziness, abdominal pain, rash, abdominal gas, and itching.

Rare allergic reactions have been described, such as hives and anaphylaxis (shock). Levofloxacin should be used with caution in patients with central nervous system diseases such as seizures, because rare seizures have been reported in patients receiving levofloxacin. Levofloxacin should be avoided in children and adolescents less than 18 years of age, as safe use in these patients has not been established.

Levofloxacin as well as other antibiotics in the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics, has been associated with tendinitis and even rupture of tendons, particularly the Achilles tendon. Many antibiotics, including levofloxacin, can alter the normal bacteria in the colon and encourage overgrowth of a bacterium responsible for the development of inflammation of the colon, (C. difficile or pseudomembranous colitis). Patients who develop signs of pseudomembranous colitis after starting levofloxacin (diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and possibly shock) should contact their physician immediately. Patients taking levofloxacin can develop sensitivity of the skin to direct sunlight (photosensitivity) and should avoid exposure to sunlight or use sunblock.

All of this to supposedly combat a bacterial/urinary infection. it seems to me that the risk involved in the use of this drug far outweighs any possible benefit. There are many less lethal methods available to combat a bacterial infection. a pharmaceutical drug which prevents the absorption of mineral-metal ions necessary for the normal processes of the human body does not and cannot possibly have anything to do with promoting health in the species homo-sapien.