Avelox

(Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride)

The active ingredient in Avelox is moxifloxacin hydrochloride, which is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It works by interfering with bacterial DNA replication, repair, and transcription. This action prevents bacteria from growing and leads to bacterial cell death. Avelox is effective against a range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria but does not treat viral infections.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Avelox. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Avelox:

Avelox is taken by mouth as a tablet or given intravenously by a healthcare provider.

It may be taken with or without food.

Take the medication at the same time each day.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking Avelox.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Avoid using tanning beds or sunlamps while taking this medication, and wear sunscreen when going outside, as you may be more prone to sunburn.

Some mild or common side effects of Avelox include:

Nausea.

Diarrhea.

Headache.

Dizziness or lightheadedness.

Trouble sleeping.

Stomach pain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Avelox. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

Tendon pain, swelling (tendinitis), or rupture, including the Achilles tendon.

Peripheral neuropathy, such as numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness.

Serious skin reactions, including skin rash, blistering, or peeling.

Irregular heartbeat, heart rate, QT prolongation, or torsade de pointes.

Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine.

Severe allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.

Watery diarrhea, diarrhea that does not go away, bloody stools, stomach cramps, or a fever, which can happen 2 or more months after you have finished your antibiotic.

Changes in blood sugar, including low blood sugar.

Mood changes, confusion, or thoughts of suicide.

Severe headache that does not go away, or accompanied by blurred vision.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Avelox. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Avelox, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

A history of tendon problems or tendon rupture.

Myasthenia gravis.

Heart rhythm problems, including a prolonged QT interval or bradycardia.

Low potassium levels.

Liver problems.

A history of seizures or nervous system disorders.

Diabetes or low blood sugar episodes.

Sensitivity to sunlight or photosensitivity.

Avelox is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to moxifloxacin or other quinolone antibiotics.

Avelox begins working shortly after the first dose by reaching therapeutic levels in the body. Some symptoms may improve within a few days, but it is important to complete the full prescribed course even if you start to feel better.

When Avelox is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

Antacids, sucralfate, didanosine oral suspension/ solution, multivitamins, or supplements containing magnesium or aluminum can reduce absorption of Avelox.

NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), including ibuprofen or naproxen, may increase your risk of central nervous system effects and seizures when combined with moxifloxacin.

Warfarin may have an increased blood-thinning effect when taken with Avelox.

Corticosteroids may increase the risk of tendon rupture when used together with Avelox.

Drugs that prolong the QT interval, such as amiodarone, erythromycin, certain antidepressants, or antipsychotics, may increase the risk of serious heart rhythm problems.

Avelox is available as a 400 mg oral tablet and as an intravenous formulation administered by a healthcare professional.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Avelox is manufactured by Bayer.

Yes, it is available from many manufacturers of generic drugs.

Do not stop taking Avelox unless advised by your healthcare provider. Stopping treatment early may allow the infection to return or worsen.

Avelox should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Moxifloxacin may pass into breast milk.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.