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Compare Vigamox vs. Cortisporin

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

Key takeaways

Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) and neomycin/polymyxin/hydrocortisone (Cortisporin) are both prescription medications, but they treat different types of infections and are used in different parts of the body. Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used as eye drops to treat bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye). It works by blocking proteins that bacteria need to grow and survive. On the other hand, neomycin/polymyxin/hydrocortisone (Cortisporin) is a combination of two antibiotics and a corticosteroid used as ear drops to treat outer ear infections. The antibiotics kill bacteria, while the corticosteroid reduces swelling and itching. Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) is typically used three times a day for seven days, while neomycin/polymyxin/hydrocortisone is used three or four times a day, with the dosage varying for adults and children. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable. However, neomycin/polymyxin/hydrocortisone carries a risk of hearing loss if used for more than 10 days, while moxifloxacin (Vigamox) can cause eye discomfort and should not be used with contact lenses.

  • Moxifloxacin (Vigamox)
    Cortisporin otic
  • Moxifloxacin (Vigamox)
    Cortisporin otic

  • Summary of Vigamox vs. Cortisporin

    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 Anti-infective / Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Cortisporin Otic is an ear drop that contains three medications: two antibiotics (neomycin, polymyxin) and a corticosteroid (hydrocortisone). It's a good option for treating outer ear infections in adults and children. The typical dose is to place 3 to 4 drops into the affected ear three to four times a day for up to 10 days. Some people have reported burning and stinging as side effects. Brand name Cortisporin Otic has been discontinued; this medication is only available as a generic.

  • Indications of Vigamox vs. Cortisporin

    Indications for
    •Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)
    Indications for
    •Outer ear infection

  • Pros and Cons of Vigamox vs. Cortisporin

    Pros and Const for Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
    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
    Pros and Const for Anti-infective / Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Contains three medications that work together to kill the bacteria and treat ear discomfort
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Can be used with a cotton wick
    Cons
    •One of the antibiotic ingredients (neomycin) can damage hearing.
    •Might cause burning when applied
    •Can't be used if you have a torn ear drum or chickenpox

  • Common Side Effects of Vigamox vs. Cortisporin

    Common Side Effects for
    •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%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Burning
    •Stinging

  • Warnings of Vigamox vs. Cortisporin

    Common Side Effects for
    •For use in the eye only
    •Risk of developing new infection
    •Don't wear contact lenses
    •Severe allergic reaction
    Common Side Effects for
    •Hearing loss
    •Allergic reaction
    •New infection

  • Prices with our coupons for Vigamox vs. Cortisporin

    Learn more about Moxifloxacin
    Learn more about Cortisporin otic

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