Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) and Azithromycin (AzaSite) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, but they belong to different classes of antibiotics. Moxifloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, while Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. Moxifloxacin is typically used three times a day for 7 days, whereas Azithromycin is used twice a day for the first two days and then once a day for the next five days. Moxifloxacin is available in both brand-name and generic forms, while Azithromycin is only available from a specific specialty pharmacy. Common side effects of Moxifloxacin include eye irritation, redness, and dry eye, while Azithromycin may cause eye irritation and temporary burning or stinging. Both medications should be used exactly as prescribed to avoid worsening the infection or developing new infections.
Moxifloxacin (Vigamox)
Azasite (azithromycin)
Moxifloxacin (Vigamox)
Azasite (azithromycin)
Summary of Vigamox vs. AzaSite
Summary for Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
Prescription only
Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that treats bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) in people of all ages. It's an eye drop that's placed in the affected eye(s) 3 times per day for 7 days. Side effects aren't common but can include dry eye, eye pain, eye redness, and itchy eyes. This medication is available as a brand-name and generic version.
Summary for Macrolide antibiotic
Prescription only
AzaSite (azithromycin) is an eye drop used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis, an eye infection also known as pink eye. It belongs to the macrolide antibiotic class and is approved for use in adults and children who are 1 year old and older. The typical dosage for this medication is to put 1 drop in the affected eye(s) once or twice a day for 7 days. Most people experience few to no side effects while using AzaSite (azithromycin) as directed.