The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved changes to the instructions for moxifloxacin (tablets and injections) (Avelox, Bayer Pharmaceuticals Corp.) for a warning regarding the risk of drug reactions. photosensitivity and phototoxicity associated with the use of antibiotics from the quinolone group.

In addition to the available data regarding moderate severity and severe photosensitization reactions, the FDA has received post-marketing reports of phototoxicity, which may manifest as an excessive reaction to the sun and manifest as erythema, exudation, sensation burns, vesicles, blisters and edema. All these manifestations occur in areas of the skin that have been exposed to ultraviolet rays (for example, on the face, neck, surface of the extensors of the forearms, back of the hands). These reactions may be associated with the use of quinolones after exposure to the sun or ultraviolet rays.

FDA experts recommend avoiding exposure to light during treatment with fluoroquinolones and, if photosensitivity or phototoxicity reactions occur, discontinuing treatment.

Patients should be warned of the need to minimize or completely avoid natural sunlight or artificial ultraviolet A and B when taking fluoroquinolones. Patients who must be outdoors should wear loose clothing that protects their skin from sun exposure and other sun protection measures (such as sunscreen).

Moxifloxacin is an antimicrobial drug from the group of broad-spectrum fluoroquinolones, which is used to treat infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms, including acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, bacterial exacerbation of COPD, pneumonia acquired in community, uncomplicated and complicated skin and soft tissue infections and intra-abdominal complication.