Avelox, or moxifloxacin, is a prescription antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class of drugs. Fluoroquinolone or quinolone is a type of synthetic broad spectrum antibiotic that kills many different bacteria. According to Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Avelox, the drug is highly effective in fighting numerous bacterial infections. Drugs.com states that Avelox kills harmful bacteria by halting the production of the essential nutrients it needs to survive.
Uses
Avelox is approved to treat a variety of bacterial infections. According to Bayer HealthCare, sinus infection, the recurrence of long term bronchial infections, and pneumonia are easily treated with this antibiotic. Avelox is also used to treat skin and stomach infections.
Side Effects
Drugs.com lists dizziness, fainting, pounding heartbeat, diarrhea, confusion, seizures, fever, numbness, tingling, sore throat, blistering skin, rash and swelling of face, lips or throat as severe side effects of Avelox, and a health care provider should be called immediately if these symptoms occur. Avelox may cause damage to tendons, especially in the heel. Avelox can make the skin more sensitive to light, so people taking the drug should wear sunscreen and avoid sun lamps and tanning beds.
How to Take Avelox
Avelox is available in both tablet and intravenous forms. According to Avelox patient guidelines, the oral form of this medication should be taken at the same time once daily with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole, and should not be crushed or split, and you should drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Drugs.com advises that antacids, vitamins, mineral supplements, the ulcer medication Carafate and the HIV drug Videx should not be taken within eight hours before or four hours after taking Avelox. These substances can decrease the effectiveness of Avelox.
Safety
Avelox patient guidelines suggests telling a health care provider if you have any of the following medical conditions: tendon problems, epilepsy, history of seizures or other central nervous system disorders, nerve problems, irregular heartbeat, low blood potassium, slow heartbeat, kidney disorders, rheumatoid arthritis or other joint issues, if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant and if you are breast feeding or planning to breast feed. According to Bayer HealthCare, the drug has been used in more than 117 million patients worldwide and has a proven safety profile.
Federal Regulations
Avelox is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of bacterial infections. The FDA states the safety of this drug on children under the age of 18 is unknown and that children have a higher chance of adverse effects while taking this class of medication. The FDA advises people not to take this medication if they have a known allergy to fluoroquinolones.
Member Comments