Moxifloxacin hydrochloride is a broad-spectrum prescription antibiotic manufactured by Bayer and known by the brand name Avelox. This drug, a type of fluoroquinolone, is effective against a wide range of bacteria, according to the Physicians' Desktop Reference. Avelox is useful for treating sinusitis, bronchitis, community-acquired pneumonia, skin infections, gastrointestinal infections, gynecologic infections, urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases.
Photosensitivity
Taking Avelox can cause extra sensitivity to sunlight, a condition known as photosensitivity. This can increase the risk of severe sunburn. Drugs.com recommends avoiding exposure to sunlight while taking this medication or wearing protective clothing and sunscreen. You also should not use sun lamps or tanning beds while taking Avelox.
Tendon Damage
Avelox use can lead to serious tendon damage, most commonly in the Achilles' tendon of the heel, but also in other areas such as those in the shoulder and hand. Swelling and even tendon rupture may occur, which could require surgery to repair. Higher risk factors for Avelox-associated tendon injuries include being over age 60, taking oral steroids, having undergone an organ transplant and having kidney disease or rheumatoid arthritis. Stop taking Avelox, call your doctor and do not exercise if you develop any signs of tendon problems, such as joint pain, swelling or stiffness, advises by Drugs.com. Avelox-associated tendon injury can occur months after you stop taking the drug.
Arrhythmia
A dangerous type of irregular heartbeat also is linked to Avelox use. This effect is more likely in people already prone to arrhythmia, who are taking medications that can cause arrhythmia, or who have low blood potassium levels, according to eMedTV. Signs of this problem include palpitations and fainting, and should be considered a medical emergency.
Central Nervous System Problems
Although unlikely, Avelox can cause central nervous system problems and brain dysfunction, with a wide range of symptoms. Effects can include depression, restlessness, anxiety, confusion, paranoia, insomnia, nightmares, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts or behavior, tremors and seizures. People with seizure disorders, cerebral arteriosclerosis or kidney disease may be more at risk for these problems, according to eMedTV.
Allergic Reaction
As with any antibiotic, an individual may experience an allergic reaction to Avelox. Drugs.com cautions against taking Avelox if you are allergic to any other quinolone medication, such as ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin. Signs of an allergic reaction to Avelox as listed by the Physicians' Desktop Reference include a rash, hives, tingling skin, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, facial swelling or throat swelling. An allergic reaction to Avelox requires immediate medical attention.
Severe Diarrhea
Mild diarrhea is a possible side effect of Avelox, but severe diarrhea can result from a depletion of friendly bacteria in the digestive tract, which may lead to overgrowth of the harmful bacteria bacteria Clostridium difficile. This condition can develop while you are taking Avelox or months after discontinuing it, and it can be life-threatening, according to eMedTV.
Concerns for Women
Avelox is not approved for use in children. Breastfeeding women should not take Avelox because this medication transfers into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby, according to Drugs.com. Tell your doctor if you are nursing, pregnant or may become pregnant.
Antibiotic Resistance
Because of various dangers associated with Avelox, the drug generally is not used as first-line therapy except in certain types of infections, including those resistant to other antibiotics. An article published in the Feb. 1, 2002 issue of "The American Family Physician" also notes that indiscriminate use of quinolone antibiotics would likely worsen the problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
