Ciprofloxacin
ANTIBIOTICUses of Ciprofloxacin
- Ciprofloxacin is a broad spectrum antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections of the lower respiratory tract (pneumonia, bronchitis), sinuses (sinusitis), kidney (pyelonephritis), ear (otitis media), urinary and genital tract infections
- It is also used to treat skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, gastrointestinal (GI) tract infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), infectious diarrhoea, typhoid, fever, uncomplicated gonorrhoea and bacterial infection in the prostate gland.
- It is also used to treat bacterial infections of the eye including conjunctivitis.
Side effects of Ciprofloxacin
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach pain
How Ciprofloxacin works
- Ciprofloxacin is a second generation Fluoroquinolone antibiotic.
- It is a bacterial enzyme inhibitor that acts by inhibiting the activity of enzymes called DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV in bacteria. These enzymes are essential for DNA replication and repair in bacterial cells. By interfering with these processes, ciprofloxacin disrupts the bacterial DNA structure and prevents the bacteria from growing and multiplying.
Certified content
Written By
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
B. Pharm, MSc.
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Ciprofloxacin is taken orally (tablet,suspension) intravenously (infusion), as ophthalmic solution (eye drops) and otic solution (ear drops) and ointment.
Age And Dose Restrictions
- It is used for adults and adolescents above 18 years of age. It can also be used in children below 18 years only for specific conditions, with appropriate dose adjustments.
Contraindications
- Ciprofloxacin is CONTRAINDICATED in patients who are allergic to quinolone or fluoroquinolone antibiotics.
Medications To Avoid With This Drug
- Avoid medications like Tizanidine, sucralfate, antacids, clozapine, cyclosporine, methotrexate, phenytoin, probenecid, ropinirole, sildenafil, warfarin, diuretics, oral diabetics, prednisone, antidepressants, and NSAIDs.
Overdose And Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose of Ciprofloxacin, take it as soon as you remember. But, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing regime.
- Caution is advised in patients with irregular heartbeats, history of heart attacks, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, low levels of potassium, and arthritis or problems with your tendons, bones or joints (especially in children).
Management Of Side Effects
- Take this medicine with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and continue taking it as prescribed. If side effects worsen or persist, consult your doctor for a possible treatment plan adjustment.
Use In Driving And Operating Machinery
- Ciprofloxacin can make you feel dizzy and lightheaded. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do other activities that require mental alertness or coordination until you know how this medication affects you.
Use In Pregnancy And Lactation
- Caution is advised for the use of Ciprofloxacin in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Caution In Other Conditions
- Caution is advised in elderly patients.
Special Dietary And Lifestyle Recommendation
- Ciprofloxacin may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to avoid sunburn.
- If you are taking antacids take ciprofloxacin 2 hours before or 6 hours after you take these medications.
- Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Ciprofloxacin, as it can increase the risk of certain side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
- Some people may experience gastrointestinal side effects. Consider taking probiotics or eating yoghurt to help gastrointestinal side effects.
- Finish the full course of Ciprofloxacin as prescribed by your doctor even if you start feeling better. Stopping early can lead to incomplete treatment and antibiotic resistance.
Frequently asked questions
1. How much time does Ciprofloxacin take to work?
Ciprofloxacin may improve the symptoms within 24 to 48 hours after starting treatment. However, it's essential to complete the full prescribed course of the medication to ensure the infection is completely treated.
2. Which medications should be avoided while taking Ciprofloxacin?
Avoid medications like Tizanidine, sucralfate, antacids, clozapine, cyclosporine, methotrexate, phenytoin, probenecid, ropinirole, sildenafil, warfarin, diuretics, oral diabetics, prednisone, antidepressants, and NSAIDs.
3. Is Ciprofloxacin a habit-forming medicine?
Ciprofloxacin is not habit-forming and is generally safe when used as directed.
4. Can I drive after taking Ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin can make you feel dizzy and lightheaded. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do other activities that require mental alertness or coordination until you know how this medication affects you.
5. Does Ciprofloxacin affect fertility?
Ciprofloxacin doesn't typically affect fertility. However, if you are concerned about the effect of this medicine on fertility, consult your doctor for personalised advice.
6. Is Ciprofloxacin available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?
Ciprofloxacin usually requires a prescription and is not available over the counter.
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