TERLEV (Levofloxacin) 500mg tablet is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat several bacterial infections in adults and some children. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
What it is
Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It kills or stops the growth of certain bacteria that cause infections.
What it's used for
This medicine is used in adults to treat pneumonia (both hospital-acquired and community-acquired), complicated and uncomplicated skin infections, chronic bacterial prostatitis, inhalational anthrax (after exposure), plague, complicated and uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and acute pyelonephritis. In some children, it is used for inhalational anthrax and plague when other options are not suitable.
Common side effects
Common side effects include nausea, headache, diarrhoea, difficulty sleeping, constipation, and dizziness. These affect more than 3 out of every 100 people. If they bother you or do not go away, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Important cautions
Do not use levofloxacin if you are allergic to it or any other quinolone antibiotic. Serious reactions can happen, including tendon swelling or rupture, severe allergic reactions, nerve damage, liver injury, and severe diarrhoea from Clostridium difficile infection. Stop the medicine and seek medical help immediately if you develop signs of an allergic reaction, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe abdominal pain, or watery or bloody diarrhoea. Levofloxacin can also affect your heart rhythm (QT prolongation). Tell your doctor if you have a history of tendon problems, kidney disease, seizures, or low potassium or magnesium levels. Avoid taking this medicine with certain other drugs that affect heart rhythm; inform your doctor of all medicines you take.
Frequently asked questions
What is TERLEV (Levofloxacin) used for?
TERLEV is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections such as pneumonia (lung infection), skin infections, urinary tract infections (including kidney infection), prostate infections, and serious infections like anthrax and plague.
What are the side effects of levofloxacin?
Common side effects include nausea, headache, diarrhoea, trouble sleeping, constipation, and dizziness. More serious but rare side effects include tendon pain or rupture, nerve damage, liver injury, and allergic reactions. Stop the medicine and see a doctor if you experience these.
Can I buy TERLEV without prescription in Nigeria?
Yes, TERLEV (Levofloxacin) 500mg tablet is classified as an over-the-counter medicine in Nigeria. However, you should only take it under the guidance of a healthcare professional because it is a strong antibiotic and misuse can lead to resistance or side effects.
How should I take levofloxacin tablets?
Take levofloxacin exactly as directed by your doctor. It is usually taken once daily. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not take with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone; take them several hours apart unless your doctor says otherwise.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
