Chlorophyll - Levaquin (Levofloxacin) Interaction
Herbal: Chlorophyll
Also Known As: Chlorophylle, Chlorophylle a, Chlorophylle b, Chlorophylle c, Chlorophylle d, Clorofila
Drug: Levofloxacin
Brand names:
Levaquin, Levaquin Injection, Leva-pak
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 26, 2024
Interaction Details
Levofloxacin is classified as belonging to the following category: Photosensitizing Drugs
Theoretically, concomitant use of chlorophyll with photosensitizing drugs may have additive effects.
Chlorophyll has been reported to cause photosensitization. In two case reports, pseudoporphyria developed after oral intake of chlorophyll. Theoretically, concomitant use with other photosensitizing drugs may exacerbate this effect.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
ProbableInteraction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
References
- Mathews-Roth MM. Carotenoids in erythropoietic protoporphyria and other photosensitivity diseases. Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1993; 691:127-38.
- Rossi E, Borchard K, Cole JM. Pseudoporphyria following self-medication with chlorophyll. Australas J Dermatol. 2015 Feb;56(1):47-8.
Chlorophyll Overview
Chlorophyll is present in almost all plants, algae, and some bacteria and is responsible for absorbing light energy and converting it into chemical energy through photosynthesis.
Chlorophyll has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of purposes including odor reduction and detoxification. When used in dietary supplements, chlorophyll is generally attained from alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and algae.
Levofloxacin Overview
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Levofloxacin is used to treat certain infections such as pneumonia, and kidney, prostate (a male reproductive gland), and skin infections. Levofloxacin is also used to prevent anthrax (a serious infection that may be spread on purpose as part of a bioterror attack) in people who may have been exposed to anthrax germs in the air, and treat and prevent plague (a serious infection that may be spread on purpose as part of a bioterror attack. Levofloxacin may also be used to treat bronchitis, sinus infections, or urinary tract infections but should not be used for bronchitis and certain types of urinary tract infections if there are other treatment options available. Levofloxacin is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by killing bacteria that cause infections.
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Antibiotics such as levofloxacin will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Chlorophyll - More Interactions
Chlorophyll interacts with 335 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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