Moxifloxacin
Anti-infective · Rx
Trade namesVigamox 0.5%, Moxeza 0.5%
Drug classAntibiotic, 4th-gen fluoroquinolone
Strength0.5%
AvailabilityRx
Mechanism of actionInhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV; broad Gram-positive, Gram-negative and some atypical coverage. Self-preserved (no added BAK).
Indication / reason for useBacterial conjunctivitis; empiric therapy and surgical prophylaxis; adjunct for low-risk bacterial keratitis.
Usual adult dosingBacterial conjunctivitis: 1 drop TID (Vigamox) or BID (Moxeza) for 7 days. Keratitis: much more frequent, per severity.
PreservativePreservative-free (self-preserving) , a preservative-free option exists
Contact lensesDo not wear contact lenses while you have signs/symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis or during keratitis treatment.
Common / important adverse effectsConjunctival irritation, dry eye, dysgeusia; rare hypersensitivity.
Contraindications & cautionsFluoroquinolone hypersensitivity.
Pregnancy / lactationLimited data; topical exposure low. Systemic fluoroquinolone tendon warnings are not established for ophthalmic use.
Practice notesFor a central ulcer or contact-lens-related keratitis, refer for cultures and fortified antibiotics rather than treating empirically.
Chair-side reference only. Dosing, contraindications and pregnancy guidance here are not exhaustive. Confirm against the current prescribing information and the patient’s full history before prescribing or advising.