Cipro

ciprofloxacin

Brand(s):

• Ciprowin Cifran Cipract

Manufacturer:

• Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd. / Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd.

Disease(s):

• Infections

Known as:

• Cetraxal / Ciloxan / Cipro

Ciprofloxacin Tablet: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin is a type of antibiotic belonging to the quinolone family. Its primary function is to either kill bacteria outright or inhibit their growth. This makes it effective against a wide range of infections, including those affecting the urinary tract, respiratory system, skin, gastrointestinal tract, and bones. It's important to remember that ciprofloxacin won't be effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting ciprofloxacin, it's crucial to inform your healthcare professional about certain pre-existing conditions or factors. This includes:

• Joint problems in children: Ciprofloxacin can potentially worsen joint problems in children.
• Heart conditions: Pre-existing heart issues may require special consideration when taking ciprofloxacin.
• Kidney disease: Kidney function impacts how ciprofloxacin is processed by the body.
• Liver disease: Similar to kidney disease, liver function plays a role in medication metabolism.
• Seizure disorders: Ciprofloxacin can potentially lower the seizure threshold.
• Allergies: Any history of allergic reactions to ciprofloxacin, other antibiotics, medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives should be disclosed.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Ciprofloxacin's use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding requires careful evaluation by a medical professional.

How to Take Ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin tablets are taken orally with a glass of water. Maintain consistent intervals between doses, and avoid exceeding the prescribed dosage. It's crucial to complete the entire course of medication as directed, even if you feel better before finishing. Skipping doses or prematurely stopping treatment can lead to treatment failure and potential antibiotic resistance.

While ciprofloxacin can be taken with or without food, it's important to note that taking it with a dairy product (milk, yogurt) or calcium-fortified juice is not recommended, although a meal containing dairy is fine. Children may require special dosage considerations – consult your pediatrician for guidance.

Overdose: In case of an accidental overdose, immediately contact a poison control center or emergency room.

Personal Use Only: Do not share your ciprofloxacin prescription with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses.

Potential Drug Interactions

Ciprofloxacin should not be taken with the following medications:

• Cisapride
• Droperidol
• Terfenadine
• Tizanidine

Ciprofloxacin may also interact with the following, potentially affecting their efficacy or causing adverse effects. Inform your doctor about any of these medications you are currently taking:

• Antacids
• Caffeine
• Cyclosporine
• Didanosine (ddI) buffered tablets or powder
• Diabetes medications
• Anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Methotrexate
• Multivitamins
• Omeprazole
• Phenytoin
• Probenecid
• Sucralfate
• Theophylline
• Warfarin

This is not an exhaustive list of potential interactions. Always provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all medications, herbs, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements you are using.

Monitoring While Taking Ciprofloxacin

If your symptoms don't improve, contact your doctor. Do not self-treat diarrhea with over-the-counter medications; consult your physician if diarrhea persists for more than two days or becomes severe and watery.

Drowsiness and dizziness are possible side effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how ciprofloxacin affects you. Avoid sudden changes in posture (sitting or standing) to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting.

Ciprofloxacin can increase sun sensitivity. Minimize sun exposure, wear protective clothing and sunscreen when outdoors, and avoid tanning beds or sun lamps.

Avoid taking antacids, or products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc for six hours before and two hours after taking ciprofloxacin.

Possible Side Effects

Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, facial swelling)
• Breathing difficulties
• Confusion, hallucinations, nightmares
• Fainting or lightheadedness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Joint, muscle, or tendon pain/swelling
• Painful or difficult urination
• Skin reactions (redness, blistering, peeling)
• Seizures
• Unusual pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness

Side effects that usually don't require medical attention (but report to your doctor if persistent or bothersome):

• Diarrhea
• Nausea or stomach upset
• White patches or sores in the mouth

This list is not exhaustive. Other side effects may occur.

Storage

Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature below 30°C (86°F). Keep the container tightly closed. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.