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Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride

 

Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride (generic Avelox) Review

brand name: Avelox
generic name: Moxifloxacin hydrochloride

Why is Avelox prescribed?

Avelox, an antibiotic, is prescribed to treat sinus and lung infections. It kills bacteria that can cause sinusitis, pneumonia, and secondary infections in chronic bronchitis. It also fights skin infections caused by staph or strep.

Avelox is a member of the quinolone family of antibiotics. Like all antibiotics, Avelox works only against bacteria. It will not cure an infection caused by a virus.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Avelox (Moxifloxacin) overdose may include:
  Convulsions, tremors, sleepiness, diarrhea, decreased activity, vomiting

How should you take Avelox (Moxifloxacin)?

Avelox (Moxifloxacin) may be taken with or without food. Your doctor will only prescribe Avelox to treat a bacterial infection; it will not cure a viral infection, such as the common cold. It's important to take the full dosage schedule of Avelox (Moxifloxacin), even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Avelox and similar antibiotics.

--Storage instructions...

Store Avelox (Moxifloxacin) at room temperature. Avoid high humidity.

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking Avelox (Moxifloxacin).

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose in an effort to "catch up."

Why should Avelox (Moxifloxacin) not be prescribed?

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other quinolone antibiotic, such as or Penetrex, Noroxin, Maxaquin, Levaquin, Floxin, Cipro, you should not take Avelox (Moxifloxacin).

What side effects may occur?

Most people taking Avelox (Moxifloxacin) do not experience side effects; and when reactions do occur, they are usually mild. If you do develop a side effect, however, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Avelox.

• More common side effects may include:
  Nausea, diarrhea, dizziness

Special warnings about Avelox (Moxifloxacin)

Avelox (Moxifloxacin) may make you dizzy or light-headed. Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or engage in activities requiring mental alertness or coordination until you know how the drug affects you.

Before you take Avelox (Moxifloxacin), you should tell your doctor if you have a history of convulsions or blockage of the arteries in the brain. Quinolone-type antibiotics like Avelox have been known to cause convulsions and other problems with the nervous system, including symptoms such as tremors, nightmares, nervousness, hallucinations, depression, confusion, dizziness, anxiety, agitation, and suicidal thoughts. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these reactions.

Rare cases of peripheral neuropathy (changes or disturbances of the nervous system) have been reported with this type of antibiotic. Contact your doctor if you experience muscle weakness, a burning sensation, pain or numbness, paralysis, or a "pins and needles" sensation.

Avelox (Moxifloxacin) may cause Achilles and other tendon ruptures, especially in older adults and those taking steroids. If you experience pain or inflammation in a tendon contact your doctor. Like other antibiotics, it can also cause serious intestinal inflammation. If you develop diarrhea, let your doctor know immediately.

Avelox (Moxifloxacin) can make your skin more sensitive to light, so you should avoid excess sunlight and tanning beds.

You should avoid Avelox if you have a low level of potassium in your blood. Low potassium can be caused by the water pills (diuretics) often prescribed for high blood pressure. If you are taking a diuretic, make sure the doctor knows about it before you begin treatment with Avelox (Moxifloxacin).

Avelox (Moxifloxacin) can cause certain heart irregularities in people already prone to the problem. If you are being treated for an abnormal heartbeat, make sure the doctor is aware of it. You may have to avoid Avelox. Also tell the doctor if you or anyone in your family has a history of heart problems. If you develop palpitations or fainting spells while taking Avelox (Moxifloxacin), contact your doctor immediately.