What it does
Moxifloxacin is an antibiotic that helps fight bacterial infections in the body.
Commonly used for: bacterial infections (e.g., pneumonia), chronic bronchitis, sinus infections (sinusitis), skin infections
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Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:39 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:04
About this medicine
Moxifloxacin is an antibiotic that helps fight bacterial infections in the body.
What it treats
- bacterial infections (e.g., pneumonia)
- chronic bronchitis
- sinus infections (sinusitis)
- skin infections
How it works
Moxifloxacin works by stopping the growth of bacteria, helping the body to clear the infection.
Who it's for
Moxifloxacin is for adults and children who need treatment for certain bacterial infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: moxofloxacin
Moxifloxacin is a fourth-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic that exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against a variety of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It is commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and certain types of intra-abdominal infections. Moxifloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes critical for bacterial DNA replication and transcription.
Indications
- Community-acquired pneumonia
- Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
- Sinusitis
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Intra-abdominal infections
- Complicated urinary tract infections
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate paediatric dosing recommendations.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidelines based on the indication and severity of the infection.
Mechanism of action
Moxifloxacin exerts its antibacterial effects primarily through inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. By binding to these enzymes, moxifloxacin prevents the supercoiling of DNA, which is necessary for DNA replication, transcription, and repair, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death.
Pharmacodynamics
Moxifloxacin demonstrates concentration-dependent bactericidal activity. Its efficacy is primarily attributed to its ability to achieve high intracellular concentrations and prolonged post-antibiotic effects. The drug is effective against a wide array of pathogens, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and certain atypical pathogens such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia pneumoniae.
Pharmacokinetics
Moxifloxacin is well absorbed after oral administration, with bioavailability exceeding 90%. It has a large volume of distribution, indicating extensive tissue penetration. The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver via glucuronidation and oxidation, with a half-life of approximately 12 hours. Excretion occurs mainly through the kidneys, with about 50-70% of the dose eliminated in urine as unchanged drug and metabolites.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to moxifloxacin or other quinolones
- History of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Concomitant use with tizanidine
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Rash
- Tendon rupture
- QT interval prolongation
- Hepatotoxicity
Interactions
- Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium may reduce absorption
- Iron and zinc supplements may decrease bioavailability
- Concurrent use with anticoagulants may increase bleeding risk
- Caution with concurrent use of drugs that prolong the QT interval
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures
- Monitor for signs of tendon injury, particularly in older patients
- Assess renal function prior to use, as dose adjustment may be necessary
- Caution in patients with myasthenia gravis due to potential exacerbation
Pregnancy
Moxifloxacin should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicity.
Breast-feeding
Moxifloxacin is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets: 400 mg
- Intravenous infusion: 400 mg/250 mL
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.