To : Elizabeth
Re : Levofloxacin

Levofloxacin is the levorotatory isomer of ofloxacin.  Hence its
breastfeeding kinetics should be identical.   The mom can probably
breastfeed without problems.  Just observe closely for diarrhea.

Below is the information for ofloxacin from my '99 edition.


Ofloxacin is a typical fluoroquinolone antimicrobial.  Breastmilk
concentrations are reported equal to maternal plasma levels.  In one study
in lactating women who received 400 mg oral doses twice daily, drug
concentrations in breastmilk averaged 0.05-2.41 mg/L in milk (24 hours and 2
hours post-dose respectively).  The drug was still detectable in milk 24
hours after a dose.  Ofloxacin levels in breastmilk are consistently lower
(37%)  than ciprofloxacin.   If required,  ofloxacin and norfloxacin are
probably the better choices for breastfeeding mothers.

T½   =  5-7 hours               M/P  =  0.98-1.66
PHL =                           PB    = 32%
PK    = 0.5-2 hours     Oral  = 98 %
MW =    361                     pKa  =
Vd    = 1.4

Regards

Tom Hale, Ph.D.

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