Moxidal

Indications

Moxifloxacin is an antibiotic. Tablets (and hospital drips) are used for bacterial infections such as sinusitis, flare-ups of chronic bronchitis, pneumonia caught in the community, and some skin and abdominal infections, usually when other antibiotics are not suitable. Eye drops treat bacterial conjunctivitis (red, sticky eye) and are used to prevent infection after eye surgery, sometimes combined with Dexamethasone. It does not work against colds, flu or other viral infections.

How It Works

It blocks two enzymes (DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV) that bacteria need to copy their genetic material, so the bacteria die.

Dosage and Administration

Tablets, adults: usually 400 mg once a day for 5 to 14 days depending on the infection, as prescribed. Swallow whole with water, with or without food. Eye drops: usually 1 drop in the affected eye 3 times a day for about 7 days, or as prescribed. Drips are given in hospital by a doctor or nurse. Tablets are not used in children and teenagers under 18. Finish the full course even if you feel better.

Interactions

• Antacids, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium and Sucralfate block absorption: take the tablet at least 4 hours before or 8 hours after them.
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm, such as Amiodarone, Sotalol, Erythromycin, some antipsychotics and some antidepressants, raise the risk of dangerous heart rhythms.
• Steroids such as Prednisolone increase the risk of tendon damage.
• It can increase the effect of Warfarin, and with painkillers such as Ibuprofen may raise seizure risk.

Contraindications

Allergy to moxifloxacin or any other quinolone antibiotic. For tablets also: under 18 years, pregnancy and breastfeeding, a known long QT interval or other serious heart rhythm problems, uncorrected low potassium, severe liver disease, and previous tendon problems with a quinolone.

Side Effects

Common: nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain, dizziness, headache and taste changes. Eye drops: mild eye irritation, itching or watering. Get urgent medical help for: pain, swelling or a snap in a tendon (especially the back of the ankle), burning, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, fast or irregular heartbeat or fainting, sudden severe chest, back or stomach pain, a serious allergic reaction or skin rash with blistering, severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, yellow skin or eyes, or confusion, hallucinations or unusual mood changes.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Tablets should not be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Eye drops may be used if a doctor advises.

Precautions and Warnings

Use with extra care if you are over 60, take steroids, have had a transplant, or have epilepsy, myasthenia gravis, diabetes (blood sugar can rise or fall), or an aortic aneurysm. Avoid strong sunlight. Do not drive if you feel dizzy. Do not wear contact lenses while using eye drops for an eye infection.

Overdose

Seek medical help promptly. Overdose may cause dizziness, confusion and heart rhythm problems, which need monitoring in hospital.

Therapeutic Class

Fluoroquinolone antibiotic.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not use eye drops more than 4 weeks after opening.