Woolcock Institute of Medical Research

Levofloxacin Shows Promise in Preventing Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

- A clinical trial in Vietnam demonstrated that a six-month course of daily levofloxacin significantly reduced the risk of developing multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). - The VQUIN trial found a 45% reduction in MDR-TB among adults and adolescents who received levofloxacin compared to placebo, highlighting its potential for prevention. - Combined analysis with the TB-CHAMP trial in South Africa suggests levofloxacin can curtail the global impact of MDR-TB among household contacts, showing a roughly 60% reduction in TB incidence. - The study indicated that levofloxacin was generally safe and well-tolerated, with no major adverse effects or new acquired resistance observed during the trial.