Does Multivitamin Preparations With Zinc Interact with Levofloxacin?
Multivitamin Preparations With Zinc and Levofloxacin have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. May interfere with gastrointestinal absorption of levofloxacin, resulting in systemic levels considerably lower than desired. Should be taken at least two hours before or after levofloxacin. The mechanism involves chelation by metal cations. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Levofloxacin Class
- Fluoroquinolone Antibacterial
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Multivitamin Preparations With Zinc and Levofloxacin occurs because chelation by metal cations. Clinically, this means may interfere with gastrointestinal absorption of levofloxacin, resulting in systemic levels considerably lower than desired. should be taken at least two hours before or after levofloxacin. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Multivitamin Preparations With Zinc and your doctor is considering prescribing Levofloxacin (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider