What is moxifloxacin?
Moxifloxacin (Avalox®) is a 4th-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic with a broad spectrum of action, which is also effective against anaerobic. It is used as a reserve antibiotic for severe infections, including complicated infections of the small basin (PID – Pelvic Inflammatory Disease) and severe gynecological mixed infections.
Important note: Like all fluoroquinolones, moxifloxacin should only be used in severe infections without suitable alternatives (EMA restriction 2019).
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Moxifloxacin
Active mechanism:
- Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV
- Bactericidal action
- Wide spectrum including anaerobic
speciality:
- Only fluoroquinolone with good anaerobic action
- Works against the typical pathogens of gynecological mixed infections
- Good tissue penetration in gynecological tissue
- One daily gift
Activity spectrum: Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, anaerobics, atypical pathogens (Chlamydia, Mycoplasma).
Who is it suitable for?
Moxifloxacin is suitable as a reserve agent for:
- Complicated infections of the small basin (PID)
- Heavy gynecological mixed infections
- If standard therapies have failed or are not tolerated
Not suitable:
- Uncomplicated bacterial vagina (standard therapy: Metronidazole or Clindamycin)
- Uncomplicated infections
- Children and youth
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Liver insufficiency (hepatotoxicity!)
Available Dosages
Gynecological infections:
- 400 mg once a day for 14 days
Available starches:
- 400 mg film tablets
No dose adjustment required at:
- Low to moderate kidney failure
- Older patients
How to Take
Intake:
- Once a day, regardless of meals
- Swallow tablet in whole with water
- At least 4 hours distance to antazida, iron, magnesium
Important notes:
- avoid sun/UV (phototoxicity)
- Leave immediately
- Pay attention to heart rhythm disorders (QT extension)
- Monitor liver enzymes
Contraindications
**Moxifloxacin must not be taken at:* *
- hypersensitivity to fluoroquinolones
- tendon disorder under previous fluoroquinolone therapy
- QT extension or medicines that extend QT
- Liver insufficiency (Child-Pugh C)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Children and youth
Preview at:
- Epilepsy
- Myasthenia gravis
- Diabetes
- Electrolyte disorders (hypocaemia, hypomagnesemia)
- Aortenaneurysma risk
Possible Side Effects
Family (1–10 %):
- nausea, diarrhea
- dizziness, headache
- QT extension in the EKG
- Increased liver levels
Selten, but seriously:
- Hepatitis, liver failure
- Snake rupture
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Mental disorders
- Heavy arrhythmias
** Moxifloxacin has a higher risk for QT extension and liver toxicity compared to other fluoroquinolones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is moxifloxacin right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.