Ciprofloxacin is used in the treatment of various bacterial infections such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, ear infections, urinary tract infections, genital tract infections, stomach infections, infections of bones and joints and skin and soft tissue infections. It can also be used in the management of patients with anthrax inhalation exposure.

Therapeutic Category

Ciprofloxacin: Fluoroquinolone antibiotics

How Ciprofloxacin works

Ciprofloxacin works by blocking the actions of certain bacterial proteins (such as DNA gyrase, topoisomerase IV) which is essential for the bacteria to survive. As a result, it destroys the susceptible bacteria and prevent their further growth and multiplication within the body which helps in reducing the severity of the infection.

Common side effects of Ciprofloxacin

nausea
diarrhoea
joint pain and joint inflammation in children
pain at the injection site (in case of injections)
white deposit on the eye surface (cornea)
eye irritation, redness of the eye, eye discomfort
bad taste

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

impairment of vision, taste and smell and hearing, depression, memory impairment, severe fatigue and severe sleep disorders
severe allergic reaction with symptoms such as tightness in the chest, feeling dizzy, feeling sick, faint, and experience dizziness while standing
impairment of eyesight, taste, smelling, hearing
pain and swelling of tendons (Ex. in your ankle, wrist, elbow, shoulder or knee), difficulty in walking
rapid irregular heartbeat
fits, neurological disease, psychosis, nerve pain, painful urination, presence of crystals in urine

Health Tips for Ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin can be taken with or without food.
Take Ciprofloxacin for the stipulated duration instructed by your doctor even if you feel better during the midway of the therapy to achieve better results. Failing to complete the full course of the therapy or skipping doses in between the therapy may not result in adequate infection control
While taking Ciprofloxacin drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated
Ciprofloxacin may make your skin more sensitive. Therefore, avoid unnecessary exposure of your skin towards sunlight or towards any other light sources as a precaution. Use sunscreens and wear protective clothing while going outdoors
It is preferable to avoid ciprofloxacin during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to risk of side effects. Consult your doctor for advice before taking it
Before taking Ciprofloxacin inform your doctor if you have any kidney problems, fits, brain diseases, nerve problems, history of tendon problems, diabetes, myasthenia gravis, heart problems, aortic aneurysm or large vessel peripheral aneurysm, joint pain and vascular disorders
Avoid taking ciprofloxacin together with dairy products. It should be taken at least 1 to 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after these products
Limit the consumption of foods and beverages rich in caffeine (such as coffee) while taking Ciprofloxacin