Moxifloxacin Description
Moxifloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, thereby preventing bacterial replication. It is commonly used to treat various bacterial infections.
Available Strengths & Forms:
- Oral Tablets: 400 mg
- IV Injection: 400 mg/250 mL
- Ophthalmic Solution: 0.5% (5 mg/mL)
5 Brand Names:
- Avelox
- Moxif
- Vigamox (ophthalmic)
- Moxicip (ophthalmic)
- Moxeza (ophthalmic)
6 Common Uses:
- Bacterial pneumonia (community-acquired)
- Skin infections (complicated)
- Intra-abdominal infections (complicated)
- Sinusitis (acute bacterial)
- Bronchitis (acute bacterial exacerbation)
- Bacterial conjunctivitis (for ophthalmic solutions)
6 Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Tendonitis or tendon rupture
- QT interval prolongation (cardiac arrhythmia)
Dosage:
- Oral/IV: 400 mg once daily
- Duration varies based on infection (5-21 days)
- Ophthalmic: 1 drop in affected eye(s) 2-3 times daily for 7 days (varies with product).
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to moxifloxacin or other quinolones.
- History of tendon disorders related to quinolone use.
- Patients with myasthenia gravis (may exacerbate muscle weakness).
Warnings & Special Instructions:
- Tendinitis & Tendon Rupture: Increased risk, especially in elderly, renal dysfunction, or concurrent corticosteroid use.
- QT Prolongation: Caution in patients with known prolongation, uncorrected hypokalemia, or concurrent use of drugs that prolong QT.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: May cause irreversible damage; discontinue if symptoms occur.
- Hepatotoxicity: Monitor liver function during use.
- Use in Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Not recommended unless benefits outweigh risks.
- Driving and Machine Operation: Caution in patients who experience dizziness or vision changes.
These are key considerations for moxifloxacin use, but it’s essential to adjust based on patient-specific factors and infection type.
