Products
Moxifloxacin is commercially available in the form of film-coated tablets, as an infusion solution, and eye drops (Avalox, Vigamox eye drops). It has been approved in many countries since 1999. Generic versions of the tablets went on sale in 2014. This article refers to oral administration; see also moxifloxacin eye drops.
Structure and properties
Moxifloxacin (C21H24FN3O4, Mr = 401.4 g/mol) is present in the drugs as moxifloxacin hydrochloride or moxifloxacin hydrochloride monohydrate, a slightly yellowish to yellow powder. It is an 8-methoxyfluoroquinolone with a diazabicyclononyl ring at the C7 position.
Effects
Moxifloxacin (ATC J01MA14) has bactericidal properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. The effects are due to inhibition of bacterial topoisomerase II (DNA gyrase) and topoisomerase IV. These enzymes play an essential role in replication, transcription and repair of bacterial DNA. The half-life is approximately 12 hours.
Indications
For the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases with susceptible pathogens.
Dosage
According to the professional information. Tablets are taken once daily, regardless of meals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Children and adolescents in the growth phase
- Severely impaired liver function
- Transaminase increase
- Tendon disorders associated with quinolone therapy.
- QT prolongation
- Immunosuppression
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Potential drug-drug interactions have been described with anticoagulants, glibenclamide, antacids, agents that prolong the QT interval, and activated charcoal.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include headache, drowsiness, candidemia, altered liver enzymes, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and dyspepsia. Moxifloxacin may prolong the QT interval.