Indications
Avelox generically known as Moxifloxacin is a prescription antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections. It belongs to the class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. Fluoroquinolones work by blocking the growth of bacteria in the body, thus preventing infection, and allowing the body’s natural defenses to take over.
Avelox is often used for difficult-to-treat infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, as well as skin and sinus infections. The effectiveness of Avelox has been demonstrated through numerous clinical studies.
Uses and Dosage
Avelox comes in the form of a tablet to be taken by mouth. It is usually taken by mouth with or without food, once daily. You should take Avelox orally with water, and drink extra fluids to keep your kidneys working properly. It can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken at the same time each day for the best results. The dosage and length of treatment depend on the medical condition being treated and the response to the treatment.
When taking Avelox (Moxifloxacin HCL), take it at least 4 hours before or 8 hours after taking other products that may bind to it, decreasing its effectiveness. This includes products such as calcium from foods and dietary supplements, antacids, sucralfate, iron, multivitamins, and warfarin.
The dose of AVELOX is 400 mg once every 24 hours. The duration of therapy depends on the type of infection as described.
| Type of Infection | Dose Every 24 hours | Duration (days) |
| Community-Acquired Pneumonia | 400 mg | 7-14 |
| Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections (SSSI) | 400 mg | 7 |
| Complicated SSSI | 400 mg | 7-21 |
| Complicated Intra-Abdominal Infections | 400 mg | 5-14 |
| Plague | 400 mg | 10-14 |
| Acute Bacterial Sinusitis (ABS) | 400 mg | 10 |
| Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis (ABECB) | 400 mg | 5 |
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Avelox Include:
- Abdominal discomfort
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Blurred vision
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Mouth sores
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Skin itching
- Vaginal discomfort (itch or burning sensation)
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Avelox Can Include:
- Acute allergic reactions
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Connective tissue problems (tendon rupture and joint problems)
- Depression
- Muscle pain
- Renal problems
- Severe diarrhea
- Skin problems
Form and Strength
Avelox and its generic alternative Moxifloxacin are available in the following forms and strengths:
Avelox: Tablet
- 400 mg
Moxifloxacin: Tablet
- 400 mg
Caution
- Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of Avelox, especially joint and tendon problems. In rare cases, tendonitis and tendon rupture have been reported in children taking this drug. Talk to your doctor about the potential risks of taking this medication.
- During pregnancy, Avelox (Moxifloxacin HCL) should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before taking this medication. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk, consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
- If you are taking moxifloxacin, tell your health care professional before having any immunizations or vaccinations, as it may cause live bacterial vaccines such as the typhoid vaccine to not work as well.
- Moxifloxacin can make you more sensitive to the sun and limit your exposure to sunlight and UV rays. You should avoid tanning booths and sunlamps and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. If you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness, you should tell your doctor right away.
- Avelox can cause serious side effects, including tendon problems, nerve damage, serious mood or behavior changes, or low blood sugar. It can also cause irreversible nerve damage and severe mood changes, as well as pain, swelling, tears, and inflammation of the tendons.
- Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who should not take Avelox?
Avelox should not be taken by people who are allergic to moxifloxacin or any of the other ingredients in the medication. People who have had a reaction to a quinolone or fluoroquinolone antibiotic in the past should not take Avelox.
What is the dosage for Avelox?
The recommended dosage of Avelox is one 400-mg tablet taken once per day for 7 to 14 days.
Is Avelox safe to take?
Avelox is generally safe to take as prescribed, but it can cause serious side effects and drug interactions. It is important to talk to your doctor about any allergies, medical conditions, and other medications you are taking before starting Avelox.
How long does it take for Avelox to start working?
Avelox usually starts working within a few hours of taking the first dose. However, full effects may not be seen for a few days.
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