Product Description

Moxifloxacin 0.5% w/v and Dexamethasone 0.1% w/v Eye Drops is a combination ophthalmic medication consisting of an antibiotic (Moxifloxacin) and a corticosteroid (Dexamethasone). It is used to treat bacterial eye infections accompanied by inflammation, such as bacterial conjunctivitis, where symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, and discharge.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is often contagious and caused by pathogens like Staphylococcus or Streptococcus. This formulation provides dual action by eliminating the infection and reducing inflammation, making it suitable for post-operative care or acute bacterial infections. It is available by prescription and should be used under medical supervision to avoid complications like antibiotic resistance.

Uses

Treatment of bacterial eye infections with inflammation, including:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) causes redness, discharge, and irritation.

• Post-operative inflammation and infection prevention after ocular surgery (e.g., cataract surgery).

• Other superficial bacterial infections of the eye or eyelids, such as blepharitis, when inflammation is present.

It is not suitable for viral or fungal infections, as the steroid component can exacerbate those conditions.

How it works

Moxifloxacin 0.5% w/v and Dexamethasone 0.1% w/v Eye Drops combine two active ingredients for targeted therapy:

• Moxifloxacin (0.5% w/v): A fourth-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication and repair. This bactericidal action kills a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, clearing the infection.

• Dexamethasone (0.1% w/v): A potent corticosteroid that suppresses inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators (e.g., prostaglandins and cytokines). It reduces symptoms like swelling, redness, and itching.

Together, Moxifloxacin eliminates the bacterial cause, while Dexamethasone alleviates associated inflammatory responses. Onset is rapid (within 1–2 hours for symptom relief), with effects lasting up to 6–8 hours per dose.

Benefits

• Dual-action relief: Effectively treats bacterial infections while reducing inflammation, leading to faster symptom resolution.

• Comprehensive symptom control: Alleviates pain, redness, and discharge, improving comfort and vision during treatment.

• Convenient dosing: Easy-to-administer drops for short-term use, minimizing the risk of complications like scarring or vision loss.

How to use

Moxifloxacin 0.5% w/v and Dexamethasone 0.1% w/v Eye Drops are for ophthalmic use only. Wash your hands before and after application. Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a pocket, and instill the prescribed number of drops (usually 1–2 drops per eye, 2–4 times daily). Avoid touching the dropper tip to prevent contamination. Blink gently and keep your eyes closed for 1–2 minutes. Do not wear contact lenses during treatment. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible, but skip if it's near the next dose—do not double up. Use for the full prescribed duration to prevent resistance.

Side Effects

Common side effects (usually mild and transient):

• Ocular: Burning, stinging, irritation, redness, or temporary blurred vision.

• Other: Eye itching, watery eyes, or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

Rare but serious side effects may include increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma), secondary infections, or allergic reactions. Discontinue use and consult a doctor if severe symptoms occur.

Safety Advice

• Alcohol Interaction: No significant interaction, but avoid alcohol if experiencing side effects like dizziness.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Classified as Pregnancy Category C (animal studies show risks, and human data is limited), so use only if the benefits outweigh risks. Consult your doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as it may be excreted in breast milk.

• Other Precautions: Use with caution in patients with viral, fungal, or mycobacterial eye infections, as steroids can worsen them. Prolonged use may increase the risk of glaucoma or cataracts; monitor intraocular pressure regularly. Not recommended for children under 1 year. Inform your doctor of all medications to avoid interactions (e.g., with other steroids or antibiotics). Do not use while wearing contact lenses, and avoid driving if your vision is blurred.

• Lifestyle Advice: Maintain good eye hygiene, avoid sharing eye drops, and follow up with your doctor for re-evaluation.

Storage Conditions

Store at a temperature below 86°F (30 °C). Protect from light and moisture.

FAQs

How long should this medication be used?

Use the eye drops for the full duration prescribed by your doctor. Treatment duration can depend on the condition's severity, but it is typically for short-term periods, such as one to two weeks after cataract surgery. Do not stop using the drops early, even if you feel better, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance and a recurring infection. 

Are these eye drops safe for prolonged use?

No, these eye drops should not be used for a prolonged period unless directed by a doctor. The dexamethasone component is a steroid, and long-term use can increase the risk of side effects, including elevated intraocular pressure (glaucoma) and the development of cataracts. 

Can contact lenses be worn while using these eye drops?

No, contact lenses should not be worn while using this medication for an active eye infection. Remove the lenses before application, and do not put them back in until your doctor advises it is safe. 

What should be done if a dose is missed?

If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose. 

Is this medication safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

The use of moxifloxacin and dexamethasone during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed with a doctor. Use only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the baby. 

Can this be used for viral infections?

No, this medication is only effective against bacterial infections and inflammation. The steroid component can actually worsen viral and fungal infections. 

What if symptoms do not improve?

If symptoms do not improve within a few days or worsen, contact your doctor. It is important to ensure that the infection is bacterial and that the treatment is effective.