What are the common side effects of ciprofloxacin eye drops. How to manage potential adverse reactions from ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution. When to seek medical attention for serious side effects of ciprofloxacin eye medication.

Understanding Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution

Ciprofloxacin is a powerful antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class of medications. When formulated as an ophthalmic solution, it’s primarily used to treat bacterial eye infections. This medication works by stopping the growth of bacteria, effectively combating various ocular conditions.

Are you wondering about the specific uses of ciprofloxacin eye drops? They are commonly prescribed for:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Corneal ulcers
• Other superficial eye infections

Healthcare providers may also recommend ciprofloxacin eye drops for off-label uses, depending on the patient’s specific condition and medical history.

Common Side Effects of Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops

While ciprofloxacin eye drops are generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these effects, and many people use the medication without any issues. However, being aware of potential side effects can help you manage them effectively if they do occur.

Ocular Discomfort

One of the most frequently reported side effects is a temporary discomfort in the eye. This may manifest as:

• A stinging or burning sensation
• Redness of the eye
• A gritty feeling, as if there’s something in your eye

These symptoms typically subside on their own shortly after application. If you experience persistent or severe discomfort, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

Visual Disturbances

Some users may notice temporary changes in their vision after applying ciprofloxacin eye drops. These can include:

• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light

Is it safe to drive after using ciprofloxacin eye drops? It’s recommended to wait until your vision clears and you feel comfortable before operating vehicles or machinery.

White Specks on the Eye Surface

In some cases, users may notice white specks on the surface of their eye after using ciprofloxacin drops. While this is generally not a cause for concern, it’s important to inform your doctor if this persists or causes discomfort.

Taste Alterations

Occasionally, ciprofloxacin eye drops can lead to a temporary bad taste in the mouth. This occurs when the medication drains through the tear ducts into the back of the throat. To mitigate this:

• Drink water or juice to rinse away the taste
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production

This side effect typically resolves quickly and doesn’t indicate any problem with the medication’s effectiveness.

Managing Side Effects of Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution

While side effects can be uncomfortable, there are several strategies to manage them effectively:

Proper Application Technique

Applying eye drops correctly can minimize side effects and maximize the medication’s effectiveness. Follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly
2. Tilt your head back slightly
3. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a pocket
4. Hold the dropper above your eye and squeeze one drop into the pocket
5. Close your eye gently and press on the inner corner for about a minute
6. Avoid blinking or rubbing your eye

This technique helps ensure the medication stays in your eye and reduces the amount that drains into your nasal passages.

Timing of Application

If you experience discomfort upon application, try these strategies:

• Use the drops just before bedtime to sleep through any initial discomfort
• If daytime use is necessary, apply the drops at least 15 minutes before any activities requiring clear vision

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the frequency and timing of applications.

Artificial Tears

Can artificial tears help with eye discomfort from ciprofloxacin drops? Yes, in some cases. If you experience persistent dryness or irritation, ask your doctor about using artificial tears. However, be sure to space out the application of artificial tears and ciprofloxacin drops by at least 15 minutes to avoid diluting the antibiotic.

Serious Side Effects and When to Seek Medical Attention

While rare, serious side effects can occur with ciprofloxacin eye drops. It’s crucial to be aware of these and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to ciprofloxacin, though uncommon, can be severe. Watch for signs such as:

• Severe itching or rash
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe dizziness

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Tendon Problems

While more commonly associated with oral ciprofloxacin, there’s a small risk of tendon problems even with ophthalmic use. Be alert for:

• Pain, swelling, or inflammation in any tendon area
• A snapping or popping sound in a tendon area
• Bruising right after an injury in a tendon area

These symptoms warrant immediate discontinuation of the medication and consultation with a healthcare provider.

Peripheral Neuropathy

In rare cases, ciprofloxacin use has been associated with peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands or feet
• Muscle weakness
• Changes in sensation to light touch, pain, or temperature

If you experience these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Drug Interactions and Precautions

While ciprofloxacin eye drops are generally safe, they can interact with other medications or health conditions. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Potential Drug Interactions

Ciprofloxacin may interact with:

• Oral anticoagulants (blood thinners)
• Certain antidiabetic medications
• Some antidepressants
• Other topical eye medications

Your doctor can advise on how to manage these interactions or adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Special Precautions

Certain individuals may need to use ciprofloxacin eye drops with caution or avoid them altogether. This includes:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with a history of tendon disorders
• Individuals with certain neurological conditions
• Those with a known allergy to fluoroquinolone antibiotics

Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

Proper Storage and Handling of Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your ciprofloxacin eye drops, proper storage and handling are essential. Follow these guidelines:

Storage Conditions

• Store the drops at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
• Do not refrigerate unless specifically instructed by your pharmacist
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Shelf Life and Expiration

Pay attention to the expiration date on your ciprofloxacin eye drops. Typically, once opened, the drops should be used within 28 days or as directed by your pharmacist. Using expired eye drops can lead to reduced effectiveness or potential contamination.

Avoiding Contamination

To prevent contamination of your eye drops:

• Wash your hands before each use
• Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to any surface, including your eye
• Replace the cap immediately after use
• Never share your eye drops with others

These practices help maintain the sterility of the solution and prevent the spread of infection.

Alternative Treatments and Considerations

While ciprofloxacin eye drops are effective for many bacterial eye infections, they may not be suitable for everyone. Your healthcare provider might consider alternative treatments based on your specific condition, medical history, and the severity of your infection.

Other Antibiotic Eye Drops

Alternative antibiotic eye drops that your doctor might consider include:

• Tobramycin
• Erythromycin
• Gentamicin
• Ofloxacin

Each of these has its own set of benefits and potential side effects, which your doctor will take into account when prescribing.

Combination Therapies

In some cases, your doctor may recommend a combination of treatments. This could include:

• Antibiotic eye drops plus oral antibiotics
• Antibiotic eye drops with anti-inflammatory medications
• A combination of different antibiotic eye drops

The choice of treatment will depend on the specific infection, its severity, and your overall health status.

Non-Pharmacological Approaches

In addition to medication, your doctor may recommend supportive care measures such as:

• Warm or cold compresses
• Proper eye hygiene
• Avoiding contact lens use until the infection clears
• Over-the-counter artificial tears for comfort

These measures can complement your antibiotic treatment and help alleviate symptoms.

Is ciprofloxacin always the best choice for eye infections? While it’s highly effective for many bacterial eye infections, the best treatment depends on various factors. Your healthcare provider will consider the specific bacteria causing the infection, your medical history, and any potential drug interactions before prescribing ciprofloxacin or an alternative medication.

Long-Term Considerations and Follow-Up Care

Using ciprofloxacin eye drops as prescribed is crucial for effective treatment, but it’s equally important to consider long-term care and follow-up. Understanding what to expect after your treatment can help ensure the best possible outcome.

Completion of Treatment

Why is it important to complete the full course of ciprofloxacin eye drops? Even if your symptoms improve, it’s crucial to use the drops for the entire prescribed duration. This helps:

• Ensure complete eradication of the infection
• Prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria
• Reduce the risk of recurrence

Never stop using the drops early without consulting your healthcare provider.

Follow-Up Appointments

Your doctor may schedule follow-up appointments to:

• Assess the effectiveness of the treatment
• Check for any lingering symptoms or complications
• Determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary

Attend all scheduled appointments, even if you feel your condition has improved.

Monitoring for Recurrence

After completing your treatment, remain vigilant for any signs of recurring infection. These may include:

• Renewed redness or irritation in the eye
• Increased discharge or tearing
• Return of pain or discomfort
• Changes in vision

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Long-Term Eye Health

To maintain good eye health after treatment:

• Practice good eye hygiene
• Avoid rubbing your eyes
• Use protective eyewear when necessary
• Attend regular eye check-ups
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in vitamins A and C

These practices can help prevent future eye infections and promote overall ocular health.

Can ciprofloxacin eye drops affect long-term eye health? When used as prescribed, ciprofloxacin eye drops are not known to have long-term negative effects on eye health. However, like all medications, they should be used judiciously and only under medical supervision.

Side effects of ciprofloxacin – NHS

Like all medicines, ciprofloxacin can cause side effects although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

These common side effects of ciprofloxacin happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Feeling sick (nausea)

If you feel sick after taking the tablets or liquid, stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food while you’re taking this medicine. It might help to take ciprofloxacin after you have had a meal or snack.

Diarrhoea

If you get diarrhoea after taking the tablets or liquid, drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark strong-smelling pee.

Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take contraceptive pills and you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Redness or discomfort in the eye

If you feel a stinging, burning or gritty feeling in your eye after using the eye drops, this should go away on its own. Do not drive, ride a bike or operate heavy machinery until your eyes feel comfortable again and your vision is clear.

Bad taste in the mouth

If you get a bad taste in your mouth after using ciprofloxacin eye drops, it does not usually last long. Drink some water or juice, or chew some sugar-free gum.

White specks on the surface of your eye

If you get white specks on the surface of your eye after using the eye drops, keep using your ciprofloxacin but tell your doctor if it bothers you or does not go away.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if this advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or lasts more than a few days.

Serious side effects

Very few people taking or using ciprofloxacin have serious side effects.

They are less likely to happen with the eye drops or ear drops.

These serious side effects can happen in less than 1 in 100 people. Stop taking ciprofloxacin and call your doctor or call 111 now if you have:

• muscle weakness, pain or swelling in your joints or tendons. This often begins in the ankle or calf, but could also be in your shoulder, arms or legs. It can happen in the first 2 days of taking ciprofloxacin or even several months after stopping. It is more common in children
• pain or abnormal sensations (such as pins and needles that do not go away, tingling, tickling, numbness or burning) or weakness in your body, especially in your legs or arms
• severe tiredness, feel anxious or very low in mood, or have difficulty sleeping or remembering things
• ringing in your ears (tinnitus), loss of taste, are seeing double, or have any other changes in your sight, smell, taste or hearing
• diarrhoea (perhaps with muscle cramps) that contains blood or mucus – if you have severe diarrhoea without blood or mucus for more than 4 days, also speak to a doctor
• a faster or irregular heartbeat, or heartbeats that suddenly become more noticeable (palpitations)
• sudden breathlessness, especially when you’re lying down
• swollen ankles, feet or stomach

Immediate action required: Call 999 if:

• you have sudden, severe pain in your stomach, chest or back
• you have seizures or fits

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to ciprofloxacin.

Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:

• your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
• you’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you’re choking or gasping for air)
• your throat feels tight or you’re struggling to swallow
• your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
• you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
• someone faints and cannot be woken up
• a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)

You or the person who’s unwell may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.

These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of ciprofloxacin. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

Find out more about muscle weakness, pain or swelling after taking ciprofloxacin on the GOV.UK website

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 13 December 2022

Next review due: 13 December 2025

Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings

Reviewed: June 23, 2020

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone (flor-o-KWIN-o-lone) antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body.

Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic (for use in the eyes) is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.

Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic is also used to treat an ulcer in the cornea of the eye.

Ciprofloxacin will not treat a viral or fungal infection of the eye. This medicine is for use in treating only bacterial infections.

Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

uses

What is Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan) used for?

• Bacterial Conjunctivitis
• Corneal Ulcers

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan)?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to ciprofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones (gemifloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, ofloxacin, norfloxacin, and others).

Do not use this medicine to treat a viral or fungal infection in the eye. Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic is for use in treating only bacterial infections of the eye.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether ciprofloxacin ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could affect the nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

Ciprofloxacin eye drops (solution) are not approved for use by anyone younger than 1 year old. Ciprofloxacin ointment is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old.

User Reviews & Rating

No ratings yet for Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan)

Leave a Review

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan)?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using this medicine; or
• eye swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage (may be signs of infection).

Common side effects may include:

• dry eyes or watery eyes;
• eye pain or discomfort;
• red or puffy eyelids;
• feeling like something is in your eye;
• blurred vision; or
• mild itching, redness, or other irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

C

Risk cannot be ruled out

Based on FDA pregnancy categories

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether ciprofloxacin ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could affect the nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan)?

Avoid wearing contact lenses until you no longer have symptoms of the eye infection.

This medicine may cause blurred vision and may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly.

Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan)?

Use Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan)?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan)?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic (Ciloxan), call 911

911

Images

Find Another Drug

Search prescription drugs, over-the counter medications, and supplements

Medical Disclaimer

Drugs A-Z provides drug information from Everyday Health and our partners, as well as ratings from our members, all in one place. Cerner Multum™ provides the data within some of the Overview, Uses, Warnings, Side Effects, Pregnancy, Interactions, Dosage, Overdose, and Images sections. The information within all other sections is proprietary to Everyday Health. 

The use of ciprofloxacin in the treatment of children with cancer

Antibiotic

Trademarks:

Cipro®

Other names:

Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride

Often used for:

Treatment and prevention of infections

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic; its action is aimed at the destruction of bacteria that cause infections.

Ciprofloxacin is available in various formulations. Follow dosage instructions carefully.

Oral tablets

Oral liquid form

Administered intravenously (through a drip) in liquid form

• Rash
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Sun sensitivity
• Abdominal pain
• Heartburn
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Vaginal itching and/or vaginal discharge

The listed side effects are not observed in all patients who are prescribed ciprofloxacin. The most common side effects are highlighted in bold, but others are not excluded. Report all possible side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

• Diseases of the joints, muscles or tendons
• Peripheral neuropathy

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

• Tell your doctor if you have severe diarrhea while taking this drug.
• It is important to drink plenty of fluids during therapy with ciprofloxacin. It is necessary to drink the amount of liquid recommended by the doctor.
• When prescribing ciprofloxacin, antacids should be avoided unless this type of drug has been prescribed by your doctor.
• Patients should protect their skin from the sun while on therapy with this drug.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should notify their physician.
• The course of taking the drug must be completed completely in accordance with the recommendations of the attending physician or pharmacist.

Taking ciprofloxacin at home:

• The drug should be taken at the same time every day.
• Ciprofloxacin may be taken with or without food. If the drug causes stomach upset, it must be taken with food.
• Recommended to take with a full glass of water.
• Do not take ciprofloxacin with dairy products or foods rich in calcium (other than a full meal).
• Limit caffeine intake when taking this drug.
• Tablets should be swallowed whole. It is not allowed to crush, chew or break the medicine before taking it.
• Liquid Ciprofloxacin: Shake well before use, measure using the measuring device provided.
• Do not give liquid ciprofloxacin via an enteral feeding tube. The drug should be taken in the form of tablets in accordance with the recommendations of the attending physician or pharmacist.
• Ciprofloxacin (when taken orally) should be stored at room temperature.
• Take your dose as soon as possible if you miss it. Do not do this only if there is little time left until the next appointment. In no case do not double the dose at the next dose! Do not take more than one extended-release tablet per day.
• Do not use an expired drug.
• Follow instructions for safe storage and disposal of the drug.

Learn more about ciprofloxacin

antibiotic ciprofloxacin instructions for use (ciprofloxacin 500mg)

Ciprofloxacin is a broad spectrum antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections such as UTIs, infections of the eyes, ears, lungs, joints, heart, skin, stomach and intestines . It belongs to a group of antibiotics called quinolones.

Contents

Toggle

What is ciprofloxacin 500 mg used for?

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic whose chemical structure makes it effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is and has been one of the most widely used antibiotics worldwide. Its use and misuse has contributed to the development of drug-resistant strains of bacteria, which, combined with the risk of serious side effects caused by this drug, has made the use of ciprofloxacin as a first-line treatment no longer recommended in many infections.

Ciprofloxacin may be indicated for the treatment of:

• Gram-negative bacteria in the lower respiratory tract
• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• orchitis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) ) caused by Neisseria Gonorrhoeae
• Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) infections
• Bone and joint infections
• Gram-negative sinusitis
• Gram-negative skin infections
• Prophylaxis of meningitis after infection with Neisseria Meningitidis
• Inhalation for anthrax

aerobic pathogens, bacteria resistant to fluoroquinolones, or viral infections, as well as for the treatment of children, pregnant or breastfeeding women without the advice of a specialist.

Dosages and formulations of ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin is a prescription-only drug and is available in both brand name and generic form. It is available in various forms and formulations such as ear drops, eye drops, eye ointment, tablets, extended release tablets, suspension, and combination formulations with other drugs. The most common of these are:

• Ciprofloxacin 250 mg tablets
• Ciprofloxacin 500 mg tablets
• Ciprofloxacin 750 mg tablets
• Ciprofloxacin 250 mg/5 ml liquid
• Ciprofloxacin 0.3% i.v. ointment 0.3%
• Ciprofloxacin otic solution 0, 3% (eardrops)

Ciprofloxacin is widely known under the trade names Ciproxin (tablets), Cyprobay (tablets), Ciflox (tablets), Cipro (tablets), Proquin XR (extended release tablets), Ciloxan (eye drops and eye ointment) and Cetraxal (ear drops).

How do I take the antibiotic ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin should be taken at the same time each day and at regular intervals as directed by your doctor. Tablets should not be chewed, they should be swallowed with water or other liquid.

Posology (composition, dose and duration of treatment) is determined by the doctor depending on the disease you are treating, your individual characteristics and response to treatment. Depending on the indication, it varies from 250 mg as a single dose to 500 mg twice a day for 3-7-14-21-90 days.

May be taken with or without food, but should not be taken with dairy products or drinks, or calcium-fortified foods such as some orange juices (see precautions below). If you take the drug without food, it is absorbed more quickly, but this may cause gastrointestinal side effects.

Ciprofloxacin 500 mg for the treatment of UTI – acute cystitis

Ciprofloxacin may be indicated for the treatment of acute uncomplicated UTI (urinary tract infection).

In these cases, ciprofloxacin should be taken as directed by a physician, usually as follows:

• Ciprofloxacin 250 mg twice daily for 3 days
• Ciprofloxacin 500 mg XR (extended release) once daily for 3 days .

For complicated UTIs, ciprofloxacin is given at a higher dosage for a longer period of time, eg 500 mg twice a day for 7-14 days.

Ciprofloxacin should only be used for uncomplicated UTIs if the patient has no other treatment options, as the risk of potential serious side effects outweighs the benefit.

Ciprofloxacin against biological warfare agents: anthrax and plague

Ciprofloxacin is stockpiled by some government agencies to prepare for bioweapons emergencies. Ciprofloxacin can be used to treat anthrax (Bacillus anthracis), pneumonic plague (Yersinia pestis), and tularemia (Francisella Tularensis).

Ciprofloxacin for gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis (STDs)

Sexually transmitted bacterial infections are on the rise. In the United States, the number of STD cases has been steadily increasing every year since 2014, according to the CDC. Due to the high incidence of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis worldwide, and the use and abuse of antibiotic therapy, most bacteria are now resistant to one or more treatment options. It is imperative not to try to cure any of these diseases through self-administration of antibiotic therapy: antibiotic resistance varies by geographic location, so treatment protocols also differ. While ciprofloxacin was previously used to treat gonorrhea, this is now rare: in some regions of the world, gonorrhea resistance to quinolones is almost 100%; Ciprofloxacin 500mg has also been used in some cases to treat chlamydia but has never been considered a first-line treatment for chlamydial infection and its use in this infection is limited to a small number of cases. Ciprofloxacin has never been used and is not effective against syphilis and Treponema Pallidum, for which only penicillins are indicated.

Ciprofloxacin during pregnancy and lactation

Although evidence suggests the safety of ciprofloxacin during pregnancy, it is generally avoided as a precautionary measure due to the potential risk of cartilage, tendon and joint damage to the developing fetus. Ciprofloxacin is also excreted in breast milk, therefore, due to the potential risk of joint damage in the baby, it should not be used in breastfeeding women unless otherwise directed by your healthcare professional.

Ciprofloxacin 500 mg for the prevention of meningitis

People who have been in contact with patients infected with meningitis caused by the bacterium Neisseria Meningitidis may be advised to take post-exposure antibiotic prophylaxis with ciprofloxacin 500 mg as a single dose.

How quickly does ciprofloxacin work?

Ciprofloxacin begins to work within a few hours of ingestion. After 36-48 hours, you should already notice some improvement or even a clear disappearance of all symptoms within 72 hours: do not stop treatment and complete the entire course of the antibiotic as directed by the doctor; if you don’t, the infection may return, and this time it may become resistant to ciprofloxacin treatment.

Precautions while taking ciprofloxacin

Before taking ciprofloxacin 500 mg, you must tell your doctor and/or pharmacist if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking it, or after taking other quinolone antibiotics such as levofloxacin, or other medicines, or if you are allergic to any of the other ingredients in the medicines.

Before taking ciprofloxacin 500 mg, you should also tell your doctor and/or pharmacist about all other prescription and over-the-counter drugs, supplements, vitamins, herbs you are taking due to possible drug interactions.

Calcium-rich foods, calcium supplements and antacids containing calcium, as well as other minerals such as magnesium, aluminium, iron and zinc, may reduce the absorption of ciprofloxacin and reduce its effectiveness. It is recommended that you take ciprofloxacin 2-4 hours before or 4-6 hours after taking any calcium-rich supplements, medications, or foods. Discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Drink plenty of water while taking ciprofloxacin to prevent some of the unwanted effects caused by the antibiotic.

Alcohol does not render ciprofloxacin ineffective, but may increase side effects such as dizziness. It is best to always eliminate or at least limit your intake of alcohol. Marijuana can also cause dizziness while taking this medication, check with your doctor if you use marijuana.

Always complete a course of antibiotics. Even if you feel better, it is very important to follow the prescribed therapy; if you don’t, the infection may return and you may develop a difficult-to-treat antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection.

Ciprofloxacin may make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation. Avoid tanning beds, always use sunscreen outdoors, and limit your time in the sun.

Never take antibiotics unless your doctor tells you to. If you have some ciprofloxacin left, don’t take it just because you think the symptoms you’re experiencing now are the same ones you’ve been treated with in the past. Let your healthcare provider evaluate your symptoms and prescribe appropriate treatment to avoid the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant, hard-to-treat bacterial infections.

Warnings and side effects

Like all medicines, ciprofloxacin can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, drowsiness and tiredness. Other more rare and serious symptoms that may occur are:

• Rash
• Fever
• Tendonitis or tendon rupture
• Swelling (face, tongue, throat, arms, legs, …)
• Peeling or blisters on skin
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

If you experience serious side effects, call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention.

How to store ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin should be kept in the original carton and container in which it was supplied; The container must be tightly closed and kept out of the reach of children. Tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The suspension form of this medicine should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 14 days and then discarded. Do not freeze ciprofloxacin suspension.

What if I miss a ciprofloxacin 500 mg tablet?

As a general rule, if you miss a dose, you should take a tablet as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking your medicine as per your schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. For more information, see the patient information leaflet or ask your family doctor or pharmacist.

Important Disclaimer: This is a summary of ciprofloxacin and does NOT contain all the information available about this product. This information does not guarantee that this product is safe, effective, or suitable for your particular application. This information does not constitute individual medical advice and does not replace the advice of your healthcare professional.