What is Cravit 250mg?

Cravit 250mg is a prescription antibiotic tablet containing Levofloxacin 250mg — a third-generation fluoroquinolone and the L-isomer of ofloxacin. Manufactured by Sanofi under the Cravit brand (original Daiichi Sankyo brand), it offers superior activity with a lower side-effect profile compared to the racemic ofloxacin. Levofloxacin inhibits DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV, two enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication, thereby killing both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria including atypical organisms. Prescription required.

How Does Cravit 250mg Work?

Levofloxacin is a bactericidal antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV — enzymes required for DNA supercoiling and replication. Blocking these enzymes prevents bacteria from replicating and causes existing bacteria to die. It has concentration-dependent killing activity, meaning higher peak concentrations improve efficacy. Its broad spectrum covers gram-positive organisms (including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus), gram-negative organisms, and atypical pathogens (Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, Legionella).

Uses of Cravit 250mg

Levofloxacin 250mg is indicated for: community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in mild to moderate cases; lower respiratory tract infections including acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (AECB); uncomplicated and complicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) including pyelonephritis; acute bacterial sinusitis; and mild to moderate skin and soft tissue infections. The 250mg dose is typically used for UTIs and mild respiratory infections; 500mg or 750mg is used for more serious infections.

Dosage & Administration

The usual adult dose is 250mg once daily for 3–10 days depending on the infection type and severity. Cravit can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Maintain adequate hydration throughout the course. Take at the same time each day and complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve. For UTIs: typically 250mg once daily for 3 days (uncomplicated) or 10 days (complicated). Prescription required.

Side Effects

Common: nausea, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, insomnia. Serious — FDA Black Box Warnings: (1) Tendinitis and tendon rupture, especially Achilles tendon — risk increased in patients over 60, those on corticosteroids, and kidney/heart/lung transplant recipients; stop immediately if tendon pain occurs. (2) Peripheral neuropathy — may be irreversible; discontinue at first signs of pain, burning, or numbness in extremities. (3) Myasthenia gravis exacerbation — contraindicated in patients with known myasthenia gravis. (4) CNS effects including seizures, psychosis, and hallucinations. (5) QTc interval prolongation — avoid with other QTc-prolonging drugs. (6) Aortic aneurysm and dissection risk in susceptible patients.

Precautions

WARNING — FDA Black Box: Levofloxacin is associated with tendon rupture, irreversible peripheral neuropathy, and myasthenia gravis exacerbation. Reserve use for infections with no safe alternative. Avoid in patients under 18 years of age (affects developing cartilage), pregnant or breastfeeding women, and patients with known QTc prolongation or hypokalaemia. Use with caution in elderly patients, those on corticosteroids, and patients with epilepsy or known CNS disorders. Do not take simultaneously with antacids containing magnesium/aluminium or supplements containing iron/zinc — these reduce absorption (separate by 2 hours). Prescription required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the most serious risks with Cravit 250mg (Levofloxacin)?
A: The FDA has issued black box warnings for tendon rupture (especially Achilles), irreversible peripheral neuropathy, myasthenia gravis exacerbation, CNS effects, QTc prolongation, and aortic aneurysm risk. Stop taking the medicine immediately and seek medical help if you notice tendon pain, numbness, or tingling in your limbs.

Q: Can I take Cravit 250mg with antacids or calcium tablets?
A: No — antacids containing magnesium or aluminium, and supplements containing iron, zinc, or calcium significantly reduce levofloxacin absorption. If needed, separate them by at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after.

Q: How long should I take Cravit 250mg?
A: Duration depends on the infection — typically 3 days for uncomplicated UTI, 5–10 days for respiratory or skin infections. Always complete the full course as prescribed to prevent antibiotic resistance.