Product Description

Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride Eye Drops IP 0.5% w/v is a sterile, prescription-only ophthalmic solution containing a fourth-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial eye infections, such as bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) and bacterial keratitis, where symptoms include redness, swelling, discharge, and irritation. This medication works by eliminating the infecting bacteria while providing rapid symptom relief. It is not suitable for viral or fungal infections and should be used under medical supervision to minimize risks like antibiotic resistance.

Uses

Treatment of bacterial eye infections, including:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (causing redness, itching, and discharge).

• Bacterial keratitis (infection of the cornea, often with pain and blurred vision).

It may also be used for post-operative bacterial infections or prophylaxis in certain ocular procedures, as directed by a doctor.

This eye drop is effective against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, but is not for non-bacterial conditions.

How it works

Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride Eye Drops IP 0.5% w/v contains Moxifloxacin, a bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits two essential enzymes in bacterial DNA replication: DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. This prevents bacterial DNA from unwinding and duplicating, leading to cell death and clearing the infection. Its broad-spectrum activity targets common ocular pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The drops provide a rapid onset (within 1–2 hours), with effects lasting up to 8–12 hours per dose, and minimal systemic absorption due to topical application.

Benefits

• Rapid infection control: Reduces bacterial load and symptoms like redness and discharge in 70–80% of cases within 3–5 days, based on clinical trials (e.g., from the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics).

• Targeted therapy: Offers broad-spectrum coverage with low risk of systemic side effects, making it suitable for acute ocular infections.

• Symptom relief: Alleviates inflammation and discomfort, improving vision and quality of life during treatment.

How to use

Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride Eye Drops IP 0.5% w/v 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, every 2–4 hours initially). Blink gently and avoid touching the dropper tip to prevent contamination. 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 one—do not double up. Use for the full prescribed duration to prevent resistance.

Side Effects

Common side effects (usually mild and temporary):

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

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

Rare but serious side effects may include allergic reactions, secondary infections, or corneal damage. 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 or breastfeeding, as it may be excreted in breast milk.

• Other Precautions: Use with caution in patients with viral or fungal eye infections, as it won't treat them and may mask symptoms. Prolonged use can lead to antibiotic resistance or secondary infections; monitor for signs of superinfection. Not recommended for children under 1 year. Inform your doctor of all medications to avoid interactions (e.g., with other eye drops). Do not use while wearing contact lenses, and avoid driving if your vision is blurred. Regular eye exams are advised for long-term use.

• 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

Can contact lenses be worn while using this medication?

No, contact lenses should not be worn during an active eye infection or while using these eye drops. Bacteria can adhere to lenses and cause reinfection or worsen symptoms. Consult a doctor to determine when it's safe to resume wearing contacts after the infection clears. 

Are there any serious side effects to watch out for? 

Serious side effects are rare, but it is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:  Signs of a severe allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, throat, or tongue; hives; or difficulty breathing. New or worsening eye pain, redness, or swelling. Visual disturbances, such as blurred or decreased vision or seeing floating objects

What happens if a dose is missed?

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

Is it safe for children?

The safety and dosage for children depend on their age and the specific infection. In general, it has not been studied in children under four months old. Always consult a pediatrician or eye specialist before using this medication for a child. 

What if symptoms do not improve?

If the eye infection does not improve after a few days or gets worse, contact a doctor. Also, complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if the symptoms have already cleared up.