Description

Cipro: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and Safety Info

What Is Cipro?

Cipro is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by interfering with the bacterial processes that bacteria require to grow and reproduce. It therefore is useful in treating certain infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

Ciprofloxacin comes in several forms, such as tablets taken by mouth and liquid suspension. Doctors choose the appropriate formulation depending on the infection type and patient’s medical needs.

What is Ciprofloxacin Used For?

Healthcare professionals use it to treat certain bacterial infections, including:

• Some urinary tract infections.
• Some kidney infections.
• Specific gastrointestinal infections due to susceptible bacteria.
• Some skin and soft tissue infections.
• Other infections for which ciprofloxacin is an appropriate treatment include:

However, it is not appropriate for all infections. In deciding to prescribe an antibiotic, doctors consider the type of bacteria, how serious the illness is, whether there are alternatives, and the patient’s medical history.

How Does Cipro Work?

It messes with bacterial enzymes that aid bacteria in replicating and keeping their DNA. Hence, sensitive bacteria are unable to perform normal growth and survival processes.

But antibiotics are only effective against specific bacteria. They can’t cure viral diseases. Taking antibiotics when you do not need them can also help create antibiotic resistance, making some infections harder to treat in the future.

How do you take Cipro?

The correct dose and duration of treatment depend on the infection, the formulation prescribed, kidney function, and other individual factors. So take your medicine as prescribed on your prescription label and as instructed by your health care professional.

Take Cipro exactly as your doctor prescribes. Do not change the dose or give this medicine to anyone. Also, if you are taking antacids or supplements containing calcium, iron, magnesium, or zinc, ask your pharmacist about when to take them because these products can interfere with ciprofloxacin absorption.

Do not take ciprofloxacin with dairy products or calcium-fortified drinks. But you can take it with a meal containing these foods, according to the product directions.

Effects of Cipro

Like other medicines, it may cause side effects. Possible side effects are

• Queasiness.
• Diarrhea (loose stools).
• Vomiting.
• Stomach ache.
• Headache.

Furthermore, serious adverse reactions can occur with ciprofloxacin. These include inflammation or rupture of tendons, damage to nerves, and effects on the brain or nervous system. Some of these reactions are rare, but patients should be warned about these risks before treatment is started.

If you experience tendon pain or swelling, numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or unusual muscle weakness, stop taking ciprofloxacin and contact your healthcare professional immediately. If you experience a serious allergic reaction, have trouble breathing, or have other serious symptoms, please call emergency services immediately.

Important Information Before You Take Cipro

Tell your healthcare professional about your medical history and all medicines and supplements you take before starting it.

Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, heart rhythm problems, diabetes, any previous tendon problems, or myasthenia gravis. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking corticosteroids; some combinations may increase your risk of tendon problems.

Ciprofloxacin can also increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid unnecessary exposure to strong sunlight or artificial tanning beds. Wear sunscreen when taking it.

Cipro: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Cipro for?

It is used to treat certain bacterial infections such as some urinary tract infections and kidney infections when the bacteria are susceptible to the medicine.

2. What’s Cipro?

Yes. Cipro is the brand name for ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic from the family called fluoroquinolones.

3. Is Cipro used for the common cold?

No. Cipro is used to treat certain bacterial infections and will not work for colds or flu, which are caused by viruses.

4. What are the side effects of Cipro?

Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, upset stomach, and headache. There can be serious reactions too.

5. Does Cipro interact with other medications?

Yes. Some antacids, mineral supplements, and prescription medications can interact with ciprofloxacin. Tell your health care provider about all of your medications.

6. When you feel better, do you need to stop taking Cipro?

Follow your doctor’s directions carefully when taking this medication. If you get serious warning symptoms, stop taking the medicine and get medical help right away. Follow the instructions in its safety information. If you are unsure, speak to your healthcare professional before changing or stopping treatment.

Summary

Cipro is an antibiotic used to treat certain types of bacterial infections when a health care professional deems it appropriate. However, it does not work against viruses and can have serious side effects.