AVELOX (MOXIFLOXACIN)

Avelox Description

Avelox contains the active ingredient Moxifloxacin, a fluoroquinolone drug that your doctor can prescribe if you are being treated for any skin, sinus, lung, or stomach infections caused by bacteria. This includes bacterial sinusitis, acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, and community-acquired pneumonia with a course of Avelox to be taken between 5 and 14 days, depending on the condition and its severity. Some individuals may require Moxifloxacin intravenously in hospital and follow up with the oral product once the infection is under control. Avelox will not treat a fungal or viral infection.

How Treatment With Avelox Will Kill the Bacteria

Avelox works as a broad-spectrum bactericidal, meaning it will kill the bacteria and not just stop their growth. In order to multiply, bacteria need the DNA strands within their cells to split apart and reattach themselves. Avelox interferes with a particular enzyme that prevents the process of DNA strands reattaching and in doing so, the bacterial cell dies. It is important that you take the full course of Avelox, even if you feel better, as this infection could start up again with possible bacterial mutations that can be immune to this antibiotic.

Conditions Treated by Avelox

Avelox has potent activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae and is found to be an efficient respiratory quinolone drug prescribed to treat this common and contagious respiratory pathogen. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people have this bacterium in their noses or throats, but only those with compromised immune systems are likely to become ill. The Streptococcus pneumoniae is passed from person to person through touching and when the infected person coughs or sneezes without covering their face or turning away so the germs from their nose or throat are sprayed into the air and inhaled.

Before Avelox is Prescribed to You

Tell your doctor before taking Avelox if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast feeding as there may be risks to your unborn or nursing baby. Discuss other medical conditions and allergies with your doctor and list any OTC or Rx meds you take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements, so it can be determined if Avelox is safe for you.

Avelox Precautions

Antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum can decrease the effectiveness of Avelox unless taken 8 hours before or 4 hours after your prescribed dose. Your thinking and reactions may be affected by Avelox, so you should avoid any task that requires you to be alert. If you experience any swelling, tenderness, or stiffness in any of your joints, especially in your ankles, stop taking Avelox, rest the joint, and call your doctor right away. Avelox is not recommended for anyone under 18 years of age. All medications should be stored safely out of children’s reach and never shared with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Avelox

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Constipation or diarrhea

For sudden weakness, mood changes, joint pain, or severe stomach pain, stop taking Avelox and call your doctor at once.