Compare Biaxin vs. Avelox

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

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Biaxin (clarithromycin)

Prescription only

Avelox (moxifloxacin)

Prescription only
Treats bacterial infections.

Biaxin (clarithromycin) is a good first-choice medicine to treat most common respiratory infections. Side-effects are common, but mild.

Treats bacterial infections.

Avelox (moxifloxacin) effectively treats different types of bacterial infections, but is more expensive than its alternatives.

Upsides
  • Good first-choice treatment for respiratory infections.
  • Compared to similar medicines, Biaxin (clarithromycin) is better tolerated.
  • Available as an extended-release pill for convenient once daily dosing and as a liquid for trouble swallowing pills.
  • Children as young as 6 months can use Biaxin (clarithromycin) safely and effectively.
  • Available as a generic medicine.
  • Treats a variety of bacterial infections.
  • Can be taken with or without food.
  • Might be a good treatment option for people with kidney problems.
  • Needs to be taken only once a day.
Downsides
  • Can cause changes in taste.
  • Can cause abnormal heart rhythms.
  • Biaxin (clarithromycin), can interact with other medications. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you are taking medicines for heart problems or gout.
  • If you have kidney or liver problems, Biaxin (clarithromycin) might not be a good option.
  • People with diabetes need to check their blood sugar levels regularly while taking Avelox (moxifloxacin).
  • Cannot be taken at the same time as antacids or vitamins.
  • Avelox (moxifloxacin) can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight and make you more likely to get a rash.
  • Relatively more expensive compared to similar alternatives.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Extended release pill
  • Liquid
  • Pill
Price
Lowest price
$17.93
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Lowest price
$19.17
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Reviews
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Side effects
7possible side effects
  • Nausea
    12%
  • Vomiting
    8%
  • Abnormal changes in taste
    4%
  • Abdominal pain
    3%
  • Diarrhea
    3%
  • Rash
    3%
  • Headache
    2%
See more detailed side effects
8possible side effects
  • Nausea
    7%
  • Diarrhea
    6%
  • Headache
    4%
  • Dizziness
    3%
  • Vomiting
    2%
  • Constipation
    2%
  • Stomach pain
    2%
  • Insomnia
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Serious allergic reaction
  • Abnormal heart rhythm
    • History of heart arrhythmias
    • Drugs that cause prolonged QT interval
    • Abnormal electrolytes
    • Elderly
  • Liver toxicity
  • Serious drug interactions
  • Severe diarrhea caused by bacteria
    • Antibiotic use
  • Birth defects
    • Pregnancy
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Tendon rupture and inflammation
    • People over age 60
    • Taking steroid medicine
    • Those with kidney, heart, or lung transplants
  • Myasthenia gravis
    • Those with a history of myasthenia gravis
  • Diarrhea
  • Nerve damage
  • Changes in mood and behavior
  • Effects on heartbeat
    • Those with a history of heart rhythm problems
    • Taking other medicines that also affect your heart rhythm
    • Those with liver problems
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Biaxin (clarithromycin)
Learn more about Avelox (moxifloxacin)