Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Tinidazole (Tindamax) and moxifloxacin (Avelox) are both antibiotics, but they belong to different classes and treat different types of infections. Tinidazole is a nitroimidazole antibiotic used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections like bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis. It is taken orally, usually once a day, and can be crushed for easier swallowing. Common side effects include a bitter taste and nausea, and you should avoid alcohol while taking it. Moxifloxacin, on the other hand, is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for more serious bacterial infections, such as lung and skin infections. It is also taken orally once a day, but it has more severe potential side effects, including tendon rupture. Unlike tinidazole, moxifloxacin is not recommended for children and has a higher risk of serious interactions with other medications. Both medications are available in generic forms.
Tinidazole (Tindamax)
Moxifloxacin (Avelox)
Tinidazole (Tindamax)
Moxifloxacin (Avelox)
Summary of Tindamax vs. Avelox
Summary for Nitroimidazole antibiotic
Prescription only
Tinidazole (Tindamax) is an oral antibiotic. It's used to treat certain bacterial and parasitic infections, including bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis, in adults and children. Tinidazole (Tindamax) is taken by mouth, typically once a day. It can also be crushed and added into cherry syrup for those with trouble swallowing. Some common side effects of this medication include bitter taste in the mouth and nausea. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking and for 3 days after stopping tinidazole (Tindamax) because doing so can cause flushing, headache, and nausea.
Summary for Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
Prescription only
Moxifloxacin (Avelox) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It can treat different types of infections, including certain skin infections and lung infections, in adults. But because moxifloxacin (Avelox) can cause serious side effects, such as tendon rupture and nerve damage, it's usually only prescribed for more serious infections or when safer options aren't available. Moxifloxacin (Avelox) is taken by mouth, typically once daily. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include nausea, diarrhea, and headache. Moxifloxacin is generic only, brand-name Avelox is no longer available.