Avelox  - Generic Name: Moxifloxacin

What is/are Avelox Tablets?

MOXIFLOXACIN is a quinolone antibiotic. It can kill bacteria or stop their growth. It is used to treat different kinds of infections, like skin and respiratory infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• cerebral disease
• heart condition
• liver disease
• seizures disorder
• an unusual or allergic reaction to moxifloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think your are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• arsenic trioxide
• chloroquine
• cisapride
• droperidol
• halofantrine
• pentamidine
• phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine
• pimozide
• some medications for irregular heart rhythm like amiodarone, disopyramide, dofetilide, flecainide, ibutilide, quinidine, procainamide, sotalol
• ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following:

• antacids
• didanosine (ddI) buffered tablets or powder
• erythromycin
• medicines for inflammation like ibuprofen, naproxen
• vitamins with iron or zinc
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• sucralfate
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• confusion, nightmares or hallucinations
• difficulty breathing
• irregular heartbeat or feeling faint
• joint, muscle or tendon pain or swelling
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• seizures
• unusual pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea
• dry mouth
• headache
• nausea or stomach upset
• trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

If you have diabetes, monitor your blood glucose carefully while on this medicine.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

Avoid antacids, aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc products for 4 hours before and 8 hours after taking a dose of this medicine.

Where should I keep this medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.