Ciprofloxacin hcl eye drops side effects. Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops: Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions
What are the primary uses of ciprofloxacin eye drops. How should patients properly apply ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution. What are the most common side effects of ciprofloxacin eye drops. When should patients seek medical attention while using ciprofloxacin ophthalmic medication.
Understanding Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution
Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution is a powerful antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial eye infections. This fluoroquinolone antibiotic works by eliminating the bacteria responsible for causing infections in the eye area. Its effectiveness in treating conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) and corneal ulcers has made it a go-to prescription for many ophthalmologists.
Are ciprofloxacin eye drops suitable for all types of eye infections. While highly effective against bacterial infections, ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution is not appropriate for viral or fungal eye conditions. It’s crucial for patients to receive a proper diagnosis from an eye care professional before starting treatment with this medication.
Key Uses of Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops
- Treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis
- Management of corneal ulcers
- Prevention of eye infections after certain surgical procedures
- Addressing other bacterial infections of the external eye and surrounding structures
Proper Application Techniques for Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution
Correct application of ciprofloxacin eye drops is crucial for optimal treatment outcomes. Patients should follow these steps to ensure proper use:
- Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water
- Tilt the head back and gently pull down the lower eyelid
- Hold the dropper above the eye without touching any surfaces
- Squeeze one drop into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid
- Close the eye and apply gentle pressure to the tear duct for 1-2 minutes
- Repeat the process for the other eye if prescribed
How often should ciprofloxacin eye drops be applied. The frequency of application varies depending on the severity of the infection and the prescribing doctor’s instructions. Typically, patients may need to apply the drops every 15 minutes to every 4 hours while awake for the first two days, then reduce frequency as directed.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. Common reactions include:
- Temporary stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
- Mild itching or redness
- Eyelid crusting
- Blurred vision
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
Can ciprofloxacin eye drops cause serious adverse reactions. In rare cases, patients may experience more severe side effects such as severe allergic reactions, tendon inflammation, or changes in vision. It’s essential to contact a healthcare provider immediately if any unusual or severe symptoms occur during treatment.
Precautions When Using Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops
To minimize risks and ensure safe use of ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution, patients should:
- Inform their doctor of all current medications and supplements
- Avoid wearing contact lenses during treatment unless specifically instructed otherwise
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve
- Store the medication properly, away from heat and light
- Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination
Interactions and Contraindications
Ciprofloxacin eye drops may interact with other medications or medical conditions. It’s crucial for patients to disclose their full medical history and current medication regimen to their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Do ciprofloxacin eye drops interact with systemic medications. While the absorption of eye drops into the bloodstream is minimal, there is still potential for interactions with certain systemic medications. Patients taking oral corticosteroids, blood thinners, or other antibiotics should inform their doctor to avoid potential complications.
Contraindications for Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Use
- Known allergy to ciprofloxacin or other quinolone antibiotics
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (unless benefits outweigh risks)
- Viral or fungal eye infections
- Certain genetic conditions affecting connective tissue
Dosage and Duration of Treatment
The dosage and duration of ciprofloxacin ophthalmic treatment vary depending on the specific condition being treated and its severity. Typical regimens include:
- For bacterial conjunctivitis: 1-2 drops every 2 hours while awake for 2 days, then 1-2 drops every 4 hours while awake for 5 days
- For corneal ulcers: 2 drops every 15 minutes for the first 6 hours, then 2 drops every 30 minutes for the rest of day 1, followed by 2 drops every hour while awake on day 2
Is it necessary to continue using ciprofloxacin eye drops after symptoms improve. Yes, it’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms resolve earlier. Stopping the medication prematurely may lead to recurrence of the infection or development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Monitoring and Follow-up Care
Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential components of successful treatment with ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution. Patients should adhere to the following guidelines:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with the eye care professional
- Keep a record of any changes in symptoms or side effects experienced during treatment
- Inform the healthcare provider if there’s no improvement after a few days of treatment
- Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen or new eye problems develop
How long does it typically take to see improvement with ciprofloxacin eye drops. Most patients experience noticeable improvement within 2-3 days of starting treatment. However, the full resolution of symptoms may take up to 7-14 days, depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s response to the medication.
Alternative Treatments and Combination Therapies
While ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution is highly effective for many bacterial eye infections, there are cases where alternative treatments or combination therapies may be necessary. These situations include:
- Infections resistant to ciprofloxacin
- Allergic reactions to the medication
- Concurrent viral or fungal infections requiring additional treatment
- Severe infections necessitating a multi-pronged approach
Are there natural alternatives to ciprofloxacin eye drops for treating eye infections. While some natural remedies may provide symptomatic relief, they are not substitutes for prescription antibiotics in treating bacterial eye infections. Patients should always consult with a healthcare professional before considering alternative treatments.
Potential Combination Therapies
In some cases, doctors may prescribe ciprofloxacin eye drops in combination with other medications to enhance treatment efficacy. These may include:
- Corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation
- Artificial tears to alleviate dryness and irritation
- Oral antibiotics for severe or systemic infections
- Antiviral medications for concurrent viral infections
Long-term Considerations and Prevention
While ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution effectively treats acute bacterial eye infections, patients should also focus on long-term eye health and infection prevention. Key strategies include:
- Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing
- Avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes unnecessarily
- Properly cleaning and storing contact lenses
- Protecting eyes from irritants and foreign objects
- Attending regular eye check-ups
Can recurrent use of ciprofloxacin eye drops lead to antibiotic resistance. Frequent or improper use of any antibiotic, including ciprofloxacin, can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. It’s crucial to use the medication only as prescribed and to explore underlying causes of recurrent infections with a healthcare provider.
Promoting Long-term Eye Health
In addition to infection prevention, patients can take proactive steps to maintain overall eye health:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E
- Wearing UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors
- Taking regular breaks during prolonged screen time
- Staying hydrated to prevent dry eyes
- Managing underlying health conditions that may affect eye health, such as diabetes
Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution plays a crucial role in treating bacterial eye infections, offering quick relief and effective eradication of harmful bacteria. However, its success relies heavily on proper use, adherence to prescribed regimens, and awareness of potential side effects and precautions. By combining this powerful medication with good eye care practices and regular medical follow-ups, patients can overcome acute infections and maintain healthy eyes in the long term.
As research in ophthalmology and antibiotic development continues, new treatments and improved formulations may emerge, potentially offering even more effective and targeted therapies for eye infections. Patients should stay informed about advancements in eye care and maintain open communication with their healthcare providers to ensure they receive the most appropriate and up-to-date treatments for their specific eye health needs.
The journey to optimal eye health extends beyond the treatment of acute infections. It encompasses a holistic approach that includes preventive measures, lifestyle adjustments, and regular medical care. By understanding the role of medications like ciprofloxacin eye drops within this broader context, patients can take charge of their eye health and enjoy clear, comfortable vision for years to come.
Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic: MedlinePlus Drug Information
pronounced as (sip roe flox’ a sin)
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Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution is used to treat bacterial infections of the eye including conjunctivitis (pinkeye; infection of the membrane that covers the outside of the eyeball and the inside of the eyelid) and corneal ulcers (infection and loss of tissue in the clear front part of the eye).
Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic ointment is used to treat conjunctivitis. Ciprofloxacin is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by killing the bacteria that cause infection.
Ophthalmic ciprofloxacin comes as a solution (liquid) and an ointment to apply to the eyes. Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution is usually used often, between once every 15 minutes to once every 4 hours while awake for 7 to 14 days or longer. Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic ointment is usually applied 3 times a day for 2 days and then twice a day for 5 days. Use ophthalmic ciprofloxacin at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use ophthalmic ciprofloxacin exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
You should expect your symptoms to improve during your treatment. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not go away or get worse, or if you develop other problems with your eyes during your treatment.
Use ophthalmic ciprofloxacin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop using ophthalmic ciprofloxacin too soon, your infection may not be completely cured and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
To instill the eye drops, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Check the dropper tip to make sure that it is not chipped or cracked.
- Avoid touching the dropper tip against your eye or anything else; eye drops and droppers must be kept clean.
- While tilting your head back, pull down the lower lid of your eye with your index finger to form a pocket.
- Hold the dropper (tip down) with the other hand, as close to the eye as possible without touching it.
- Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your face.
- While looking up, gently squeeze the dropper so that a single drop falls into the pocket made by the lower eyelid. Remove your index finger from the lower eyelid.
- Close your eye for 2 to 3 minutes and tip your head down as though looking at the floor. Try not to blink or squeeze your eyelids.
- Place a finger on the tear duct and apply gentle pressure.
- Wipe any excess liquid from your face with a tissue.
- If you are to use more than one drop in the same eye, wait at least 5 minutes before instilling the next drop.
- Replace and tighten the cap on the dropper bottle. Do not wipe or rinse the dropper tip.
- Wash your hands to remove any medication.
To apply the eye ointment, follow these instructions:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Avoid touching the tip of the tube against your eye or anything else; the tube tip must be kept clean.
- Holding the tube between your thumb and forefinger, place it as near to your eyelid as possible without touching it.
- Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your face.
- Tilt your head backward slightly.
- With your index finger, pull the lower eyelid down to form a pocket.
- Squeeze a 1/2-inch (1.25-centimeter) ribbon of ointment into the pocket made by the lower eyelid. Remove your index finger from the lower eyelid.
- Blink your eye slowly; then gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes.
- With a tissue, wipe any excess ointment from the eyelids and lashes. With another clean tissue, wipe the tip of the tube clean.
- Replace and tighten the cap right away.
- Wash your hands to remove any medication.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before using ophthalmic ciprofloxacin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ciprofloxacin (Cipro, Ciloxan), other quinolone antibiotics such as cinoxacin (Cinobac) (not available in the United States), enoxacin (Penetrex) (not available in the United States), gatifloxacin (Tequin, Zymar), levofloxacin (Levaquin, Quixin, Iquix), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox, Vigamox), nalidixic acid (NegGram) (not available in the United States), norfloxacin (Noroxin), ofloxacin (Floxin, Ocuflox), and sparfloxacin (Zagam), any other medications, or benzalkonium chloride.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: anticoagulants (‘blood thinners’) such as warfarin (Coumadin), cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), and theophylline (Theo-Dur). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any medical condition.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using ophthalmic ciprofloxacin, call your doctor.
- you should know that your vision may be blurred during your treatment with ciprofloxacin ophthalmic ointment. Avoid rubbing your eyes even if your vision is blurred. Do not drive a car or operate machinery if you are unable to see clearly.
- tell your doctor if you wear contact lenses. You should not wear contact lenses while you have symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis or while you are applying eye drops or ointment.
- you should know that bacterial conjunctivitis spreads easily. Wash your hands often, especially after you touch your eyes. When your infection goes away, you should wash or replace any eye makeup, contact lenses, or other objects that touched your infected eye(s).
Talk to your doctor about drinking coffee or other beverages containing caffeine while you are taking this medication.
Place the missed dose in your eye(s) as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Ophthalmic ciprofloxacin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- burning, red, itchy, crusty, or irritated eyes
- eye pain
- feeling that something is in your eye
- unpleasant taste
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- hives
- itching
- tingling
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- hoarseness
Ophthalmic ciprofloxacin may cause other side effects.
Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org
Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them.
However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA’s Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.
If you instill too many drops of the ophthalmic solution in your eye, wash your eye with plenty of warm tap water.
- Ciloxan®
Last Revised – 02/15/2018
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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
📜 Instructions for use Ciprofloxacin-AKOS 💊 Composition of the drug Ciprofloxacin-AKOS ✅ Use of Ciprofloxacin-AKOS 📅 Storage conditions Ciprofloxacin-AKOS ⏳ Expiry date Ciprofloxacin-AKOS Save Search for analogues Product description Ciprofloxacin-AKOS Based on the official instructions for use of the drug, approved by the manufacturer Marketing authorization holder: SYNTHESIS JSC Contacts for inquiries: SYNTHESIS Joint-Stock Kurgan Society of Medical Preparations and Products ATX code: S01AE03 (Ciprofloxacin) Active substance: Rec.INN WHO registered Dosage form
Release form, packaging and composition |
02.04
11.08
Acts bactericidal. Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerases II and IV, responsible for the process of supercoiling of chromosomal DNA around nuclear RNA, which is necessary for reading genetic information), disrupts DNA synthesis, growth and division of bacteria, causes pronounced morphological changes (including the cell wall and membranes) and rapid death of the bacterial cell.
, Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare are moderately sensitive to (high concentrations are required to suppress them).
| H00 | Hordeolum and chalazion |
| H01.0 | Blepharitis |
| H04.3 | Acute and unspecified inflammation of lacrimal ducts |
| H04.4 | Chronic inflammation of the lacrimal ducts |
| h20.2 | Other acute conjunctivitis |
| h20.4 | Chronic conjunctivitis |
| h20.5 | Blepharoconjunctivitis |
| h26.0 | Corneal ulcer |
| h26.2 | Keratoconjunctivitis (including those caused by external influences) |
h26. 9 | Keratitis, unspecified |
| S05 | Injury of the eye and orbit |
| T15 | Foreign body in the outer part of the eye |
| Z29.2 | Other prophylactic chemotherapy (prophylactic administration of antibiotics) |
Dosing regimen
For mild to moderately severe infections eye drops are instilled 1-2 drops into the lower conjunctival sac of the affected eye (or both eyes) every 4 hours, with severe infection – 2 drops every hour. After improvement of the condition, the dose and frequency of instillation are reduced.
The bottle must be closed after each use. Do not touch the tip of the pipette to the eye.
Side effects
Local reactions: possible – allergic reactions, itching, burning, mild soreness and hyperemia of the conjunctiva, nausea; rarely – swelling of the eyelids, photophobia, lacrimation, sensation of a foreign body in the eyes, an unpleasant aftertaste in the mouth immediately after instillation, decreased visual acuity, the appearance of a white crystalline precipitate in patients with corneal ulcers, keratitis, keratopathy, spots or corneal infiltration.
Contraindications for use
- viral keratitis;
- children under 1 year of age;
- individual sensitivity to the components of the drug.
Use during pregnancy and lactation
The use of the drug Ciprofloxacin-AKOS is possible only if the expected therapeutic effect outweighs the risk of possible side effects.
Use in children
The drug is contraindicated in children under 1 year of age.
Special instructions
C Caution should be prescribed to patients with cerebral atherosclerosis, cerebrovascular accident, convulsive syndrome.
Ciprofloxacin-AKOS can only be used topically. Do not inject the drug subconjunctivally or directly into the anterior chamber of the eye.
The patient should be informed that if conjunctival hyperemia persists for a long time or increases after the use of the drops, then stop using the drug and consult a doctor.
Soft contact lenses are not recommended during treatment.
When using hard contact lenses, they should be removed before instillation and put back on 15-20 minutes after instillation of the drug.
Influence on the ability to drive vehicles and mechanisms
Patients who, after the application of Ciprofloxacin-AKOS eye drops, temporarily lose their vision, are not recommended to drive a car or work with complex machinery, machines or any other complex equipment, requiring clarity of vision immediately after instillation of the drug.
Overdose
There are no data on overdose of Ciprofloxacin-AKOS.
Drug interactions
The interaction of ophthalmic forms of ciprofloxacin with other drugs is not described.
Storage conditions of the drug Ciprofloxacin-AKOS
Eye drops should be stored protected from light and out of the reach of children at a temperature of 15° to 25°C.
Shelf life of the drug Ciprofloxacin-AKOS
Shelf life – 2 years; after opening the vial – no more than 1 month.
Terms of sale
The drug is dispensed by prescription.
Contacts for inquiries
SINTEZ OJSC 640008 Kurgan, Constitution Ave 7 |
Keep
If you want to place a link to the description of this drug – use this code
Ciprofloxacin-AKOS . Description of the drug in the reference book Vidal.
antibiotic ciprofloxacin: instructions for use (ciprofloxacin 500 mg)
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.
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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:
- Lower respiratory tract infections caused by gram-negative bacteria
- Pneumonia
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- orchitis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) ) caused by Neisseria Gonorrhoeae
- Gastrointestinal (GI) tract 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 as both brand-name and generic. 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% IV eye drops solution
- Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmologist 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 with 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 daily 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 fast 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.