Vigamox vs. Aerosporin for Eye Infection: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) and Polymyxin B are both antibiotics, but they are used in different ways and for different types of infections. Moxifloxacin (Vigamox) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic available as eye drops to treat bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye). You use it three times a day for seven days, and it can cause side effects like dry eye, eye pain, and redness. Polymyxin B, on the other hand, is an older antibiotic given through an IV to treat serious infections in the urinary tract, brain, and blood. It is not commonly used today because it can cause serious side effects like kidney damage and nervous system problems. While moxifloxacin (Vigamox) is available in both brand-name and generic forms, Polymyxin B is typically used in hospitals for resistant bacteria when safer antibiotics are not effective.

Moxifloxacin

(Vigamox)

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polymyxin B

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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

Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)

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 Aerosporin

Prescription only

Polymyxin B can be used to treat infections in the urinary tract, brain, and blood. It's infused through the veins (IV) by a healthcare provider. Polymyxin B is an older antibiotic that's not commonly used today because of the risk of serious side effects, such as kidney problems. But it's still considered a good choice for some resistant bacteria that don't respond well to safer, first-choice antibiotics.