Anaphylactic Shock due to Oral Levofloxacin After Cataract Surgery: A Case Report

Authors

  • Henny Tan Departemen Ilmu Penyakit Dalam, FKIK UKRIDA, Jakarta, Indonesia
  • William Departemen Farmakologi Klinik, FKIK UKRIDA, Jakarta, Indonesia
  • Suparto Departemen Anestesiologi, FKIK UKRIDA, Jakarta, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.38035/dhps.v4i2.3871

Keywords:

Anaphylactic shock, Levofloxacin, Fluoroquinolone

Abstract

Background: Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is generally safe to use, but can cause severe hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylactic shock in rare cases. Objectives: This study are use to report a case of anaphylactic shock following oral levofloxacin administration after cataract surgery and to describe its clinical manifestations and management. Methods: This study used a case study design with retrospective data collection from the patient's medical records. Data were analyzed descriptively and compared with literature findings related to fluoroquinolone hypersensitivity reactions. Results: A 60-year-old man developed a generalized erythematous rash, recurrent vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, severe hypotension, and tachycardia within 15 minutes of taking oral levofloxacin following cataract surgery. Physical examination revealed widespread urticaria accompanied by a blood pressure of 70/50 mmHg, and laboratory tests revealed leukocytosis, elevated creatinine, and hypokalemia. The patient showed clinical improvement after fluid resuscitation, administration of the vasopressor norepinephrine, intravenous corticosteroids, antihistamines, and other supportive therapy, and was ultimately discharged in stable condition. Conclusions: Anaphylactic shock due to oral levofloxacin is a rare but life-threatening event that can occur even in the absence of a prior history of allergy. Early recognition and prompt and appropriate management are crucial to prevent fatal clinical outcomes.

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Published

2026-10-09

How to Cite

Tan, H., William, & Suparto. (2026). Anaphylactic Shock due to Oral Levofloxacin After Cataract Surgery: A Case Report. Dinasti Health and Pharmacy Science, 4(2), 250–264. https://doi.org/10.38035/dhps.v4i2.3871