Ciprofloxacin is a strong fluoroquinolone antibiotic. Doctors use it for infections that other antibiotics may not treat well. Because of rare but serious side effects, health authorities advise doctors to keep it for infections where safer antibiotics do not work.
What Is Ciprofloxacin Used For?
- Urinary tract and kidney infections
- Some bowel infections and travelers’ diarrhea
- Bone and joint infections
- Some skin and chest infections
- Anthrax and some other serious infections
How Does Ciprofloxacin Work?
Ciprofloxacin blocks enzymes that bacteria need to copy their DNA. The bacteria cannot multiply and die.
General Dosage Information
This is general information only. Your doctor sets the right dose for you, so follow your prescription and the label.
- Adults usually take 250 mg to 750 mg every twelve hours. The dose and length of treatment depend on the infection.
- Drink plenty of water while you take it.
- Doctors rarely use it in children.
Side Effects of Ciprofloxacin
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and diarrhea
- Headache and dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Trouble sleeping
Serious Side Effects
Call your doctor or get emergency help if you notice:
- Tendon pain or swelling, especially in the heel. Stop the medicine and rest.
- Tingling, numbness, or burning in the hands or feet
- Confusion, hallucinations, or seizures
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Severe or bloody diarrhea
- Sudden severe chest, back, or stomach pain
Who Should Be Cautious?
- People with myasthenia gravis, who should avoid it
- Older adults and people who take corticosteroids, who face a higher risk of tendon injury
- People with heart rhythm problems, epilepsy, or kidney disease
- People with diabetes, who may have blood sugar swings
- Pregnant women and children, unless a doctor decides it is necessary
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about every medicine and supplement you take. Examples of important interactions include:
- Antacids, calcium, iron, and zinc: take ciprofloxacin two hours before or six hours after them.
- Tizanidine: do not combine them.
- Theophylline: ciprofloxacin can raise its level.
- Warfarin: it can raise the risk of bleeding.
- NSAIDs: they can raise the risk of seizures.
- Diabetes medicines: blood sugar can drop or rise.
Storage and Precautions
- Store it at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.
- Keep it out of the reach of children.
- Avoid strong sunlight, because it can make your skin burn more easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink milk with it?
Do not take it with milk or calcium-fortified drinks alone. Eating a normal meal that includes dairy is fine.
Why do doctors avoid it for simple infections?
Because of the risk of tendon, nerve, and other serious side effects.
Should I exercise on it?
Avoid hard exercise, and stop if you feel tendon pain.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It is not medical advice. Please talk to your doctor about your own health.