Indications 

Cipro is prescribed as a therapeutic option for various bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea and chancroid, skin and soft tissue infections, joint infections, lower respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, prostatitis, typhoid fever, anthrax, plague, and salmonellosis. 

Cipro is a bactericidal antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolones drug class. It exerts its bactericidal action by disrupting DNA replication, leading to bacterial death. 

Cipro may be utilized as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with additional medications. 

Cipro is indicated explicitly for treating bacterial infections only and is ineffective against viral infections, such as the common cold or influenza. The indiscriminate use of antibiotics can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance, reducing the efficacy of the drug for future infections. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Cipro and with each subsequent refill, it is essential to peruse the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet. Clarify any questions or concerns to a healthcare provider or pharmacist to completely understand this medication, including its potential risks and benefits.  

The dosage and length of intake of Cipro may vary per individual based on the infection being treated, medical history, any concurrent medications, and response to treatment. 

Take this medication exactly how your doctor prescribes it. Typically, Cipro is administered twice daily in the morning and evening without regard to food intake. 

The tablet should be ingested as a whole and not crushed or chewed, as it may result in an unpleasant bitter taste. If the tablet is scored, it may be split in half as per a physician’s or pharmacist’s instructions. 

Administer Cipro at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking medicines or products that may bind to it, including supplements containing iron and zinc, sucralfate, quinapril, sevelamer, or any products that may contain aluminum, calcium, or magnesium.  

Take Cipro two hours before or six hours after consuming calcium-rich foods unless these foods are part of a larger meal that includes other non-calcium-rich foods, which mitigate the calcium-binding effect. 

For optimal therapeutic efficacy, take this antibiotic at regular intervals. To ensure consistent dosing, it may be helpful to establish a daily routine and take the medication at the same time(s) every day. 

Complete the full course of the prescribed medication, even if you start to feel better before finishing it. Stopping too early may permit bacteria to persist and potentially result in recurrent infection. 

Side Effects 

Possible adverse reactions that may occur during treatment with Cipro are listed below. If any of these side effects persist or cause significant distress, seek medical attention immediately. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Stomach pain 
• Vaginal itching or discharge 
• Headache 
• Abnormal liver function tests 

Serious Side Effects  

• Low blood sugar 
• Hunger 
• Sweating 
• Irritability 
• Dizziness 
• Fast heart rate 
• Feeling anxious or shaky 
• Numbness in the hands, arms, legs, or feet 
• Weakness 
• Tingling or burning pain 
• Nervousness 
• Confusion 
• Agitation 
• Paranoia 
• Hallucinations 
• Memory problems 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Thoughts of suicide 
• Sudden pain 
• Swelling 
• Bruising 
• Tenderness 
• Stiffness 
• Movement difficulties 
• Snapping or popping in joints 
• Severe or constant chest, stomach, or back pain 
• Diarrhea that is watery or bloody 
• Fluttering in the chest 
• Shortness of breath 
• Lightheadedness 
• Rash 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Little or no urination 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 
• Severe headache 
• Ringing in the ears 
• Vision problems 
• Pain behind the eyes 

Immediately seek medical assistance if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Allergic reactions are rare while taking Cipro; however, in case of manifestation of these symptoms listed below, seek immediate medical attention. 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list of adverse reactions is not exhaustive, and it is possible to experience other symptoms while taking Cipro. In case of any concerning side effects, seek the advice of a healthcare provider. 

Caution 

Before taking Cipro, inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies to the medication or other quinolone antibiotics such as norfloxacin, gemifloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, or ofloxacin, as well as any other allergies you may have.  

This medication may also contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other adverse effects. For further information, kindly consult with your pharmacist. 

To prevent drug interaction, tell your doctor about all other medications, including prescription/nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products.  

Be conscious to mention if you are taking tizanidine (Zanaflex). Your doctor is likely to instruct you to discontinue the use of ciprofloxacin during the course of this medication. 

Disclose your medical history to your doctor, especially of: 

• Diabetes 
• Heart problems, such as a recent heart attack 
• Joint or tendon issues, such as tendonitis or bursitis 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Mental or mood disorders, such as depression 
• Myasthenia gravis 
• Nerve problems, such as peripheral neuropathy 
• Seizures, as well as conditions that increase the risk of seizures, such as brain or head injury, brain tumors, or cerebral atherosclerosis 
• Blood vessel problems, such as aneurysms or blockage of the aorta or other blood vessels, or hardening of the arteries 
• High blood pressure 
• Certain genetic conditions, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome 

Before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations, inform the healthcare provider about taking Cipro, as it may affect the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines. 

Cipro may induce QT prolongation, a potentially critical condition. Indicators of QT prolongation include irregular heartbeat or palpitations, severe dizziness, and fainting.  

To mitigate the risk of QT prolongation, maintain hydration levels and avoid using diuretics or “water pills.” Monitoring for hypomagnesemia and hypokalemia is likewise recommended, as low levels of magnesium and potassium may further increase the risk of QT prolongation. 

Cipro may induce dizziness, which may be exacerbated by the consumption of alcohol or the use of marijuana (cannabis). Avoid engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can perform them safely.  

Limit the consumption of alcoholic beverages. If you are using marijuana (cannabis), consult your healthcare provider. 

Cipro has the potential to increase sensitivity to sunlight. Limit exposure to the sun and avoid the use of tanning booths and sunlamps. Protect the skin by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing. 

The safety of Cipro for a pregnant woman is not yet established. Tell your doctor if you are planning or get pregnant while taking this medication. 

Ciprofloxacin can be passed into breast milk and may adversely affect infants. Nursing mothers should refrain from breastfeeding while taking Cipro until two days after discontinuing the medication.