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Vigamox vs. Ciprodex

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) and Ciprodex (ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone) are both prescription medications, but they treat different types of infections and are used in different parts of the body. Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) is an eye drop used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) and is available in both brand-name and generic forms. It is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that works by blocking proteins bacteria need to grow and survive. On the other hand, Ciprodex is an ear drop that combines ciprofloxacin, another fluoroquinolone antibiotic, with dexamethasone, a corticosteroid. Ciprodex treats bacterial middle and outer ear infections and helps reduce swelling. While Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) is used three times a day for 7 days, Ciprodex is used twice a day for the same duration. Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) can cause eye discomfort and redness, whereas Ciprodex may cause ear discomfort and itching. Additionally, Ciprodex must be warmed in the hands before use to prevent dizziness, a step not required for Moxifloxacin (Vigamox).

Moxifloxacin

(Vigamox)

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Ciprodex

(ciprofloxacin / dexamethasone)

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Summary for Vigamox

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.

Indications for Vigamox

Pros and Cons for Vigamox

Pros

  • Can typically start to improve symptoms in a few days
  • Generally used less often during the day than alternatives
  • Safe to use in children and infants
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Need to use 3 times a day
  • Can cause eye discomfort
  • Might be difficult for some people to use properly

Common Side Effects for Vigamox

  • Eye inflammation or redness (up to 6%)
  • Blurry vision (up to 6%)
  • Dry eye (up to 6%)
  • Eye irritation, pain, or itching (up to 6%)
  • Watery eye (up to 6%)

Warnings for Vigamox

  • For use in the eye only
  • Risk of developing new infection
  • Don't wear contact lenses
  • Severe allergic reaction

Summary for Ciprodex

Prescription only

Ciprodex is an ear drop suspension that contains ciprofloxacin (a fluoroquinolone antibiotic) and dexamethasone (a corticosteroid). It's used to treat middle and outer ear infections in people ages 6 years and older. The dosage is 4 drops twice a day, typically for 7 days. Side effects aren't common, but include ear discomfort, ear pain, and changes in taste. It's available as both a brand name (Ciprodex) and generic.

Indications for Ciprodex

  • Middle ear infections (otitis media) in children ages 6 months and older with surgically-placed ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes)
  • Outer ear canal infections (swimmer's ear or otitis externa) in people 6 months and older

Pros and Cons for Ciprodex

Pros

  • Combines two medications into a single ear drop
  • Generally only needs to be used for 7 days
  • Can be used in children as young as 6 months old

Cons

  • Need to use twice a day
  • Can be difficult for some people to administer correctly
  • Can only treat ear infections caused by bacteria, not infections caused by fungi or viruses

Common Side Effects for Ciprodex

  • Ear discomfort (3%)
  • Ear pain (2%)
  • Itchy ear (2%)

Warnings for Ciprodex

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Development of new infection
  • Use only in the ear

Prices with our coupons for Vigamox vs. Ciprodex

Price Card Drug Icon
Moxifloxacin1 eye dropper / 3ml of 0.5%
$16.48$213.86
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Ciprofloxacin/Dexamethasone1 ear dropper / 7.5ml of 0.3%/0.1%
$65.04$211.07
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