Common Uses

Cipro is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class. It works by blocking bacterial DNA-gyrase, an enzyme crucial for bacterial DNA replication and protein production, resulting in the death of bacteria. This drug has bactericidal properties and targets bacteria both in their active growth phase and dormant state. Cipro treats infections in various body systems including the lungs, kidneys, urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract (such as mouth, teeth, jaws, bladder, and biliary system), skin, mucous membranes, and soft tissues. It is effective against numerous gram-negative aerobic bacteria and some gram-positive bacteria, including Salmonella, Shigella, Proteus, Chlamydia, Streptococcus, and certain Staphylococcus species.

Dosage and Administration

Take Cipro exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, with a full glass of water, either with or without food, maintaining consistent time intervals between doses. It is important to increase your fluid intake while on this medication. Avoid consuming dairy products simultaneously with Cipro as they reduce its effectiveness. Do not crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets; swallow them whole. For oral liquid forms, swallow without chewing.

Precautions

Before starting Cipro, inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver issues, myasthenia gravis, joint disorders, diabetes, a history of seizures, low potassium levels, or heart rhythm abnormalities. Minimize prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV rays while taking this medication.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Epilepsy
• Children and adolescents under 18 years old
• Known allergy to Cipro or other fluoroquinolones

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, rash, headache, restlessness, confusion, hallucinations, pale or yellowish skin, dark urine, and easy bruising or bleeding. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using Cipro and seek medical advice immediately.

Drug Interactions

Cipro should not be taken alongside medications that reduce stomach acidity, alkaline mineral waters, or drugs containing aluminum, zinc, iron, or magnesium ions, as these can impair Cipro absorption.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, do not double the next one. If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include seizures, difficulty urinating, muscle weakness, or a combination of pale skin and bluish lips. If an overdose is suspected, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Storage

Store Cipro at room temperature (15-25°C or 59-77°F) away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not freeze liquid forms of Cipro; if refrigerated, keep within recommended temperatures.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for general purposes only and does not cover all possible guidelines, interactions, or precautions. It should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions. We disclaim responsibility for the accuracy of this information and any outcomes resulting from self-treatment.