Avelox (Moxifloxacin)

Description

Avelox most commonly known as moxifloxacin belongs to fluoroquinolones group of antibiotics. Bacterial infections of the lungs, skin, stomach and sinuses are treated using Avelox. Another important use of this drug is in prevention and treatment of plague.

 

If you have any muscle disorder then it is advisable to avoid using Avelox. This drug is known to cause swelling and tearing of tendons most commonly of the Achilles’ tendon of the heel. If you witness any kind of stiffness, bruising or tenderness in your joints or any other muscle movement on taking Avelox, then immediately call your doctor.

 

What to know before using Avelox

 

People allergic to moxifloxacin or other fluoroquinolones antibiotics like emifloxacin or norfloxacin should avoid using this drug. Patients with history of myasthenia gravis should inform their doctor about the problem to make sure this drug is safe for them.

 

Some other medical conditions that pose risk with use of Avelox are:

 

 Heart rhythm disorder
 History of Long QT syndrome
 Arthritis
 Tendon or joint problems
 Any muscle disorder
 Kidney or liver disease
 Diabetes
 Epilepsy
 Head injury or brain tumor

 

The swelling of tendons can take place during treatment with Avelox or even several months after the treatment is completed. Patients over 60 are more likely to affect from this side effect. Also if you are on steroidal medication or had heart, lung or kidney transplant then you are more likely to get affected from swelling of tendons.

 

Pregnant ladies should inform their doctor about the pregnancy before starting medication. However Avelox is not known to affect the unborn baby or pass through breast feeding.

 

How to take Avelox?

 

It is mandatory to follow all the instructions given on the label. Follow the dosage as prescribed by your doctor and avoid making changes on your own. Avelox should be taken with a full glass of water. Also keep yourself hydrated and drink extra water each day when you are on Avelox medication.

 

You can take this medicine with or without food. As in case of infections your symptoms can improve without complete eradication of bacteria. It is important to take this medicine for full course. Do not skip dosage of Avelox as it will make infection bacteria more resistant to antibiotic.

 

What to do if you miss a dose or overdose?

 

Do not try to compensate by double dosage for a missed dose. Take you dose as soon as you remember however avoid if it’s time for next dosage. In case of severe overdose immediately seek help and consult your doctor.

 

What to avoid?

 

Some medications should be avoided when you are using Avelox. These medicines include:

 

 Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum
 Ulcer medicine sucralfate
 Didanosine
 Supplements containing aluminum, magnesium, or iron

 

Avelox can cause sunburn more easily therefore avoid exposure to sunlight when on medication. Use sunscreen lotions and wear protective clothing when going out.

 

Diarrhoea can result from intake of antibiotics easily. If you suffer from diarrhoea on taking Avelox stop the medication and consult your doctor immediately. Do not try to treat diarrhoea on your own and also avoid anti-diarrhoea medicines.

 

Your reaction and thinking can be affected due to intake of Avelox therefore avoid driving when you are on medication.

 

The Side Effects

 

Symptoms like skin rashes, hives, swelling of throat, tongue, lip and face and difficulty in breathing indicate severe side effects. Immediately seek medical help.

 

Nerve damage can result from use of this medicine therefore pay attention to these symptoms:

 

 Any sign of tendon rupture like sudden pain, bruising, stiffness or swelling
 Nerve symptoms like numbness, burning pain, or extreme sensitivity for light or temperature

 

Stop using Avelox if you witness headache, diarrhoea, seizure, nausea or dizziness.