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Avelox (moxifloxacin) is a synthetic antibiotic used to treat a range of acute infections caused by susceptible bacteria; it is often used when infections prove resistant to other antibiotics, particularly in lung infections.

This product will have no effect on viral or fungal infections, and will not work on all types of bacteria; it is important bacteria be identified before starting treatment.

Avelox is also known as Avalox or Avelon, depending on location. Its active ingredient, moxifloxacin, is also available in eye drops for treating bacterial conjunctivitis under the brand names Vigamox or Moxeza.

Overview of Treatment

Avelox comes in tablets, each of which contain 400 mg of moxifloxacin. The medication is not available in other strengths; dosage is identical in all conditions it treats, 400 mg taken once per day. Interestingly, dosage is identical when delivered via IV in hospital settings; 400 mg per day.

While dosage is the same in all conditions, length of treatment will vary depending on the condition being treated. It is most frequently used in:

• Bacterial Sinusitis: 400 mg once per day, for 10 days
• Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis: 400 mg once per day, for 5 days
• Community Acquired Pneumonia: 400 mg once per day, for 7 to 14 days
• Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections: 400 mg once per day, for 7 days
• Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections: 400 mg once per day, for 7 to 21 days
• Complicated Intra-Abdominal Infections: 400 mg once per day, for 5 to 14 days

Other considerations to keep in mind during treatment:

• Always complete the full treatment, even if symptoms disappear; stopping early may cause the infection to return and contributes to resistant bacteria.
• Food is optional, but tablets should be taken with a full glass of fluid, and plenty of additional fluids should be taken throughout treatment.
• Taking each dose at the same time each day will maximize the presence of the drug in the body, making it more effective.
• Avelox should taken either 4 hours before or 8 hours after consuming products which contain iron, zinc, magnesium, or aluminum.

Most patients start to feel considerably better after only a day or two of treatment, but advanced infections may require longer treatment before symptoms begin to noticeably improve.

Warnings & Adverse Effects

Certain preexisting conditions put patients at greater risk of experiencing complications during treatment. This does not mean Avelox can not be used, but risks should be discussed with a doctor and patients should be alert for warning signs of developing adverse effects when there is a history of:

• Heart rhythm disorders
• Muscle or nerve disorders
• Liver or kidney disease
• Seizures or epilepsy
• Head injuries or brain tumors
• Chronic low levels of potassium (hypokalemia)
• Use of blood thinners

Very rarely Avelox can cause tendon damage. The risk is greater, though still very small, in patients who:

• Are over 60
• Taking corticosteroids
• Have a history of tendon or joint problems
• Have had an organ transplant

Be alert for symptoms of tingling, numbness, pain, swelling, or other unusual sensations, even if mild, in tendons, joints or muscles, and seek medical attention such symptoms do occur.

Common side effects are similar to those encountered with any antibiotic:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness

The above side effects are not cause for concern unless severe or persistent.

Effects on unborn or nursing babies is unknown. Parents should discuss Avelox use with a trusted doctor and decide if the benefits to the mother are worth the potential risks to the baby.

As with most medications, Avelox may interact with other treatments, reducing effectiveness or causing unexpected side effects. Speak with a doctor or pharmacist if unsure about the safety of mixing specific medications.