Moxifloxacin (
Avelox®) is a prescription antibiotic approved to treat a variety of different infections. It is a powerful "broad-spectrum" antibiotic that is effective against many different types of bacteria.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with moxifloxacin. However, not everyone who takes the drug will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. Serious side effects are less common. Some of the common side effects include, but are not limited to:
(Click Moxifloxacin Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Moxifloxacin?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
- Low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalemia)
- Seizures or epilepsy
- Cerebral arteriosclerosis (hardening and thickening of the arteries of the brain)
- An irregular heart rhythm known as long QT syndrome
- Had a heart, liver, or lung transplant
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Moxifloxacin belongs to a class of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones, also known as "quinolones." These medications work by interfering with two important bacterial enzymes (topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase). These enzymes are necessary for bacteria to be able to copy and repair DNA (important steps required in order for bacteria to multiply).
When and How to Take Moxifloxacin
Some general considerations for those taking moxifloxacin include the following:
- Moxifloxacin comes in tablet and injectable form. It is usually taken once a day.
- You can take the drug with food or on an empty stomach. If moxifloxacin bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Moxifloxacin can be taken at any time of the day; however, be sure to take it at the same time each day to make sure there is approximately 24 hours between doses.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Moxifloxacin will not work adequately if you stop taking it too soon.
The dose of moxifloxacin your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The type of infection and bacteria
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
What If I Take an Overdose of Moxifloxacin?
Based on the results of animal studies, people who take an overdose may experience effects such as (but not limited to):
- Drowsiness
- Shakiness (tremor)
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia).
If you happen to overdose on moxifloxacin, seek immediate medical attention.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your moxifloxacin as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose. Try not to miss doses, as this increases the risk of developing an antibiotic-resistant infection.
Currently, this medication is not available in generic form
(see Generic Avelox).
Moxifloxacin is manufactured by Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Moxifloxacin tablets come in one strength -- moxifloxacin 400 mg. This medication is also available in injectable form.
How Should Moxifloxacin Be Stored?
Store moxifloxacin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
