Moxifloxacin: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Moxifloxacin is a fluoroquinolone for respiratory and some eye infections. It belongs to the Antibiotic (other) group. These antibiotics from various families treat specific bacterial infections; they do not work against viruses.

Ask MedDroid about moxifloxacin →

Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Antibiotic (other)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Community-acquired pneumonia and chest infections
Sinus infections
Some skin and abdominal infections
Bacterial eye infections (as drops)
Some drug-resistant tuberculosis (specialist use)

Common brand names

India: Moxif, MoxiCip, Moximax
Worldwide: Avelox

Common side effects

Nausea or diarrhoea
Headache or dizziness
Altered taste
Mild eye irritation with drops

Before taking it — precautions

Tell your doctor about heart rhythm problems or medicines that affect heart rhythm
Tell your doctor about epilepsy, liver problems, diabetes or myasthenia gravis
Not usually for children or in pregnancy; keep apart from antacids, iron and zinc

When to see a doctor urgently

Tendon pain or swelling, especially at the heel — stop and see a doctor
Numbness, burning or tingling in hands/feet, or confusion
Fast/irregular heartbeat, severe allergy or bloody diarrhoea (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of moxifloxacin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Why is moxifloxacin called a respiratory fluoroquinolone?

It works well against common chest infection bacteria, so it is mainly used for pneumonia and sinus infections rather than urinary infections.

Can it affect the heart?

It can change heart rhythm in some people. Tell your doctor about heart problems and other medicines you take.

Are the eye drops the same medicine?

Yes, the same antibiotic is made as eye drops for bacterial conjunctivitis; the drops act mostly on the eye.

Ask MedDroid about moxifloxacin →

Explore more

Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.