Moxifloxacin is an antibiotic that is sometimes prescribed to combat respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis or sinus infections. This medication can also be used to stop infections in the stomach or the skin. It kills bacteria that cause these infections. However, it is not effective against viral infections such as colds or the flu.

Side Effects/Warnings

This type of antibiotic medication can cause tendon weakness, soreness and ruptures. Tendon ruptures often occur in the feet, ankles or knees; this painful condition requires surgical correction so that the patient can move and/or walk normally. Patients who are over the age of 60 and/or who have had a kidney, heart or lung transplant are at greater risk of tendon damage from this medication.

Patients who have myasthenia gravis should not take this medication because it can cause fatal muscle weakness.