Avelox

Generic name: Moxifloxacin hydrochloride

What is Avelox?

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.

What is the most important information I should know about Avelox?

In rare cases, antibiotics can cause a serious allergic reaction. Stop taking Avelox and call your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following warning signs: skin rash, tingling, hives, shortness of breath, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty swallowing.

Who should not take Avelox?

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other quinolone antibiotic, such as ciprofloxacin hydrochloride, enoxacin, levofloxacin, lomefloxacin hydrochloride, norfloxacin, ofloxacin, or you should not take Avelox.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Avelox?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Avelox. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a heart problem, you are being treated for an abnormal heartbeat, or you have a history of convulsions or blockage of arteries in the brain. Your doctor should also know if you have convulsions.

Avelox 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, contact your doctor immediately.

Before you take Avelox, you should tell your doctor if you have a history of convulsions or blockage of the arteries in the brain.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Acute Bacterial Sinusitis

Adults: The usual dose is one 400-milligram (mg) tablet daily for 7 to 14 days.

Acute Bacterial Infection with Chronic Bronchitis

The usual dose is one 400-mg tablet daily for 5 days.

Pneumonia

The usual dose is one 400-mg tablet daily for 7 to 14 days.

Skin Infections

The usual dose is one 400-mg tablet daily for 7 days.

How should I take Avelox?

Avelox 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, 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. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking Avelox.

What should I avoid while taking Avelox?

Avelox 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.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Avelox?

If Avelox is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Avelox with the following: amiodarone; antipsychotic drugs such as chlorpromazine, haloperidol, and trifluoperazine; didanosine; erythromycin; multivitamins containing iron or zinc; antacids containing magnesium, calcium, or aluminum; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); procainamide; quinidine; Sotalol; sucralfate; tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline hydrochloride, desipramine hydrochloride, and perphenazine; and warfarin.

What are the possible side effects of Avelox?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal pain, anemia, anxiety, decreased blood pressure, diarrhea, dizziness headache, drowsiness, insomnia, joint and muscle pain, nausea, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, rash, sweating

Can I receive Avelox if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Avelox during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Avelox?

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."

How should I store Avelox?

Store Avelox at room temperature. Avoid high humidity.