Ciprofloxacin
About Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin contains the class of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones, primarily used to treat or prevent certain infections caused by bacteria. It is prescribed for the treatment of pneumonia, gonorrhoea (a sexually transmitted disease), typhoid fever (a serious infection that is common in developing countries), infectious diarrhoea (infections that cause severe diarrhoea), and infections of the skin, bone, joint, abdomen (stomach area), and prostate (male reproductive gland).
Ciprofloxacin contains an antibiotic 'Ciprofloxacin' which is bactericidal in nature and works by killing bacteria that cause infections. It prevents the division of bacterial cells. It also inhibits the repair of bacterial cells. Altogether it kills the bacteria.
Ciprofloxacin should be taken in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. In some cases, you may experience nausea, diarrhoea, liver function tests abnormal, vomiting, and rash. Most of these side effects of Ciprofloxacin do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects are persistent, reach out to your doctor.
It is not advisable to stop this medicine suddenly to avoid unpleasant side effects. Inform your doctor if you have any lung disease, muscle weakness (myasthenia gravis), sleeping disorder or difficulty in sleeping (sleep apnoea), severe liver disease, or problem with alcohol or other prescription recreational drugs. Inform your doctor if you are planning to get pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling, shortness of breath, etc. you should contact a doctor immediately.
Uses of Ciprofloxacin
Medicinal Benefits
Ciprofloxacin contains the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin, which helps treat and prevent a wide range of bacterial infections. It is bactericidal in nature and works by killing bacteria that cause infections. It prevents the division of bacterial cells and inhibits the repair of bacterial cells. Both these actions lead to the killing of the bacteria.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Ciprofloxacin
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Liver function tests abnormal
- Change of the heart rhythm (ECG)
- Low blood potassium level
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Bacterial infection: A bacterial infection is a condition in which harmful bacteria enter, multiply, and infect our body. It can target any body part and multiple very quickly. When you get infected with bacteria, you can experience generalized symptoms, like fevers, chills, and fatigue. Bacteria are of various forms comprising commonly of spherical, rod, and spiral-shaped. Bacterial infections vary from minor illnesses like sore throat and ear infections to severe brain infections like meningitis and encephalitis. Few harmful bacteria that cause infections include Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and E. coli. Anyone can become infected with a bacterial infection. But, people with weak immune systems or taking immunosuppressive medicine can make you more prone to bacterial infection.
FAQs
Ciprofloxacin contains the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin, which helps treat and prevent a wide range of bacterial infections. It is bactericidal in nature and works by killing bacteria that cause infections. It prevents the division of bacterial cells.
Ciprofloxacin makes your skin sensitive to sunlight (photosensitivity). So, prolonged exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light should be avoided. In case of emergency, you should always wear sunscreen before going out.
If you miss a dose of Ciprofloxacin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, then do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
No, Ciprofloxacin should be taken in the dose and duration as advised by the doctor. If you take it in more than the recommended dose, it might cause unpleasant side effects. If you think your symptoms are not improving, please consult your doctor.
No. Ciprofloxacin is an antibacterial medicine that acts only against bacterial infections and not against viral infections causing cough, cold and flu.
Yes, Ciprofloxacin may cause diarrhoea. Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic which kills or prevents bacterial growth, so in case some good intestinal bacteria which aid in digestion might also get killed. So, drink plenty of fluids and take probiotics to prevent excessive loss of fluids from the body (dehydration).
No, Ciprofloxacin should not be taken along with dairy products as it might affect the absorption and efficacy of Ciprofloxacin. However, you can take it with a meal that includes these foods or drinks.