What are the primary uses of ciprofloxacin eye drops. How should ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution be applied. What are the potential side effects of ciprofloxacin eye drops. When should you consult a doctor 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 targeting and eliminating the bacteria responsible for causing infections in the eye area.

Are you wondering about the specific conditions ciprofloxacin eye drops can treat? The primary uses include:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Corneal ulcers
• Other bacterial infections affecting the eye and surrounding tissues

Ciprofloxacin eye drops are available in two forms: a liquid solution and an ointment. The choice between these forms depends on the specific condition being treated and the physician’s recommendation.

Proper Application of Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops

Correct application of ciprofloxacin eye drops is crucial for effective treatment. How often should you use ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution? The frequency can vary based on the severity of the infection and your doctor’s instructions. Typically, the dosage ranges from once every 15 minutes to once every 4 hours while awake, for a duration of 7 to 14 days or longer.

To ensure proper application, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
2. Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid
3. Hold the dropper above your eye without touching it
4. Squeeze one drop into the pocket formed by your lower eyelid
5. Close your eye for 2-3 minutes, tilting your head downward
6. Gently press on the inner corner of your eye to prevent drainage
7. Wipe away any excess liquid with a clean tissue

Is it safe to use contact lenses while using ciprofloxacin eye drops? It’s generally advised to avoid wearing contact lenses during treatment with eye drops, unless specifically instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Potential Side Effects of Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution

While ciprofloxacin eye drops are generally well-tolerated, they can cause certain side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Mild stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
• Temporary blurred vision
• Eye redness or irritation
• White crystals in the eye or eyelid
• Altered taste sensation

Can ciprofloxacin eye drops cause more serious side effects? In rare cases, more severe reactions may occur, such as:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Persistent eye pain or vision changes
• Signs of a new infection (increased discharge, redness, swelling)

If you experience any of these serious side effects, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Precautions and Interactions with Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops

Before using ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution, inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, especially to quinolone antibiotics. Additionally, disclose all medications you’re currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Do ciprofloxacin eye drops interact with other medications? While topical eye medications generally have fewer systemic interactions, it’s still important to be cautious. Some potential interactions may occur with:

• Other eye medications (wait at least 5 minutes between applications)
• Systemic quinolone antibiotics
• Certain oral medications that may affect eye health

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor before using ciprofloxacin eye drops, as the safety in these situations hasn’t been fully established.

Proper Storage and Handling of Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution

To maintain the effectiveness and safety of ciprofloxacin eye drops, proper storage is essential. How should you store ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution?

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

Is it safe to use ciprofloxacin eye drops after the expiration date? It’s not recommended to use any medication, including eye drops, after its expiration date. Expired medications may be less effective or potentially harmful.

When to Consult Your Doctor During Treatment

While using ciprofloxacin eye drops, it’s important to monitor your condition and be aware of when to seek medical advice. Contact your healthcare provider if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days of treatment
• You experience new or worsening eye pain
• You notice changes in your vision
• You develop signs of a new infection or allergic reaction

Should you continue using ciprofloxacin eye drops if your symptoms improve quickly? It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better. Stopping the medication too soon can lead to incomplete eradication of the infection and potentially contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Comparing Ciprofloxacin to Other Ophthalmic Antibiotics

Ciprofloxacin is one of several antibiotics used to treat eye infections. How does it compare to other ophthalmic antibiotics?

• Broad-spectrum activity: Ciprofloxacin is effective against a wide range of bacteria
• Penetration: It has good penetration into ocular tissues
• Resistance: Some bacteria have developed resistance to ciprofloxacin, which may influence its use in certain cases

Are there alternatives to ciprofloxacin eye drops? Depending on the specific infection and bacterial sensitivity, other ophthalmic antibiotics may be prescribed, such as:

• Moxifloxacin
• Levofloxacin
• Tobramycin
• Erythromycin

The choice of antibiotic depends on various factors, including the type of infection, local resistance patterns, and individual patient characteristics.

Understanding Bacterial Resistance and Ciprofloxacin

Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is a growing concern in healthcare. How does this affect the use of ciprofloxacin eye drops? While ciprofloxacin remains an effective treatment for many eye infections, certain bacteria have developed resistance to this antibiotic.

To minimize the risk of developing resistance:

• Use ciprofloxacin eye drops only as prescribed
• Complete the full course of treatment
• Avoid using leftover eye drops for new infections without consulting a doctor

Healthcare providers may sometimes choose to culture the infection before prescribing antibiotics to ensure the most effective treatment is selected.

The Role of Ciprofloxacin in Preventing Postoperative Infections

Ciprofloxacin eye drops are not only used to treat existing infections but also play a role in preventing postoperative infections in eye surgery. How effective is ciprofloxacin in this preventive role?

Studies have shown that ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution can significantly reduce the risk of infection following various eye surgeries, including:

• Cataract surgery
• Corneal transplants
• Glaucoma procedures

The use of prophylactic antibiotics like ciprofloxacin is a standard practice in many ophthalmic surgical procedures, helping to ensure better outcomes and reduce complications.

Long-Term Considerations for Ciprofloxacin Eye Drop Users

While ciprofloxacin eye drops are typically used for short-term treatment of acute infections, some patients may require longer courses or repeated treatments. What should long-term users be aware of?

• Regular eye check-ups: Frequent monitoring by an eye care professional is essential
• Potential for corneal changes: Long-term use may rarely affect corneal health
• Increased risk of resistance: Prolonged or repeated use can contribute to bacterial resistance

Can ciprofloxacin eye drops cause permanent changes to eye color or vision? While rare, there have been reports of corneal deposits with prolonged use of fluoroquinolone eye drops. These deposits usually resolve after discontinuation of the medication but highlight the importance of professional oversight for long-term use.

The Impact of Ciprofloxacin on Ocular Surface Microbiome

The ocular surface, like other parts of the body, hosts a diverse community of microorganisms known as the microbiome. How does the use of ciprofloxacin eye drops affect this delicate ecosystem?

Research suggests that antibiotic eye drops can temporarily alter the ocular surface microbiome. This alteration may:

• Disrupt the natural balance of bacteria on the eye surface
• Potentially increase susceptibility to other infections in the short term
• Usually resolve after the course of antibiotics is completed

The long-term implications of these changes are still being studied, emphasizing the importance of using antibiotic eye drops judiciously and only when necessary.

Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops in Pediatric Patients

Treating eye infections in children requires special considerations. Is ciprofloxacin safe for use in pediatric patients? While ciprofloxacin eye drops are generally considered safe for children, there are some important factors to consider:

• Age-appropriate dosing: Dosage may need to be adjusted for very young children
• Compliance challenges: Administering eye drops to children can be difficult and may require patience and technique
• Monitoring: Close observation for any adverse reactions is crucial in pediatric patients

Parents and caregivers should be properly instructed on how to administer the drops and what signs to watch for during treatment.

Advances in Ophthalmic Antibiotic Delivery Systems

The field of ophthalmic medicine is continually evolving, with new delivery systems being developed to improve the efficacy and convenience of treatments like ciprofloxacin. What innovations are on the horizon for eye infection treatments?

• Sustained-release formulations: Allowing for less frequent dosing
• Nanoparticle-based delivery: Enhancing penetration and targeting of antibiotics
• Combination therapies: Incorporating anti-inflammatory agents with antibiotics

These advancements aim to improve patient compliance, reduce side effects, and enhance the overall effectiveness of treatments for eye infections.

The Economic Impact of Ciprofloxacin Eye Drops

The availability of effective treatments like ciprofloxacin eye drops has significant economic implications. How do these medications impact healthcare costs and productivity?

Consider the following aspects:

• Cost-effectiveness: Prompt treatment can prevent more serious complications
• Generic availability: Lower-cost generic versions of ciprofloxacin are widely available
• Reduced work/school absences: Effective treatment allows quicker return to normal activities

While the immediate cost of prescription eye drops may seem high, their ability to quickly resolve infections can lead to overall cost savings in the healthcare system and improved quality of life for patients.

Global Perspectives on Ciprofloxacin Use in Ophthalmology

The use of ciprofloxacin eye drops varies across different regions of the world. What factors influence its global utilization?

• Regulatory approvals: Availability and indications may differ by country
• Local resistance patterns: Bacterial susceptibility to ciprofloxacin varies geographically
• Healthcare access: Availability of alternative treatments and specialist care impacts usage

In some parts of the world, ciprofloxacin remains a front-line treatment for eye infections, while in others, it may be reserved for more severe cases or used as a second-line therapy.

Future Directions in Ophthalmic Antibiotic Research

As bacterial resistance continues to be a concern, research into new antibiotics and treatment strategies is ongoing. What might the future hold for eye infection treatments?

• Novel antibiotic classes: Development of new types of antibiotics specifically for ocular use
• Combination therapies: Exploring synergistic effects of multiple antibiotics or antibiotic-adjuvant combinations
• Immunomodulatory approaches: Harnessing the body’s immune system to fight infections
• Probiotics for eye health: Investigating the potential of beneficial bacteria to prevent infections

These areas of research aim to address the challenges of antibiotic resistance and improve outcomes for patients with eye infections.

The Role of Patient Education in Successful Treatment

Effective use of ciprofloxacin eye drops relies heavily on proper patient education. What key points should be emphasized to ensure optimal treatment outcomes?

• Correct application technique: Ensuring the medication reaches the affected area
• Adherence to prescribed regimen: Completing the full course of treatment
• Recognition of potential side effects: Knowing when to seek medical attention
• Importance of follow-up: Attending scheduled appointments for monitoring

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating patients about these aspects, which can significantly impact the success of treatment with ciprofloxacin eye drops.

Ciprofloxacin and Environmental Considerations

The widespread use of antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, has environmental implications. How does the use of ophthalmic antibiotics impact the environment?

Consider the following aspects:

• Water contamination: Antibiotics can enter water systems through improper disposal
• Impact on aquatic life: Trace amounts of antibiotics can affect ecosystems
• Contribution to global antibiotic resistance: Environmental presence can promote resistance in bacteria

Proper disposal of unused medications and responsible prescribing practices are important steps in mitigating these environmental concerns.

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:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Check the dropper tip to make sure that it is not chipped or cracked.
3. Avoid touching the dropper tip against your eye or anything else; eye drops and droppers must be kept clean.
4. While tilting your head back, pull down the lower lid of your eye with your index finger to form a pocket.
5. Hold the dropper (tip down) with the other hand, as close to the eye as possible without touching it.
6. Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your face.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. Place a finger on the tear duct and apply gentle pressure.
10. Wipe any excess liquid from your face with a tissue.
11. If you are to use more than one drop in the same eye, wait at least 5 minutes before instilling the next drop.
12. Replace and tighten the cap on the dropper bottle. Do not wipe or rinse the dropper tip.
13. Wash your hands to remove any medication.

To apply the eye ointment, follow these instructions:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Avoid touching the tip of the tube against your eye or anything else; the tube tip must be kept clean.
3. Holding the tube between your thumb and forefinger, place it as near to your eyelid as possible without touching it.
4. Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your face.
5. Tilt your head backward slightly.
6. With your index finger, pull the lower eyelid down to form a pocket.
7. 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.
8. Blink your eye slowly; then gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes.
9. With a tissue, wipe any excess ointment from the eyelids and lashes. With another clean tissue, wipe the tip of the tube clean.
10. Replace and tighten the cap right away.
11. 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

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.

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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:

• Gram-negative bacterial infections of 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 Neisseria Meningitidis infection
• 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% i.v. ointment 0.3%
• Ciprofloxacin otic solution 0, 3% (eardrops)

Ciprofloxacin is commonly 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 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
• Tendinitis 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. Always consult your healthcare professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

References

• Guidelines for the management of sexually transmitted infections.
  World Health Organization, Jun 2021
  https://www.who.int/hiv/pub/sti/en/STIGuidelines2003.pdf
• Summary of Biological Warfare Agents.
  New York State Department of Health
  https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/emergency/attachment_2f.htm
• Ciprofloxacin HCl Highlights of Prescribing Information
  US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/019537s086lbl.pdf
• Ciprofloxacin
  UK National Health Service (NHS)
  https://www.