About ciprofloxacin
Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
Used for
- Treats certain bacterial infections, including urinary, respiratory, skin, and gastrointestinal infections.
- Does not treat viral infections such as colds or flu.
Usual adult dose
Usually 250–750 mg by mouth every 12 hours, depending on infection and kidney function.
Usual dose in children
For selected serious infections, 10–20 mg/kg by mouth every 12 hours; specialist-directed, maximum 750 mg per dose.
Common side effects
- Nausea or diarrhea
- Headache or dizziness
- Tendon pain or rupture
- Nerve symptoms, such as burning or numbness
Important warnings
- Can rarely cause lasting tendon, nerve, muscle, or nervous-system problems.
- Seek urgent care for tendon pain, severe allergic reaction, or sudden weakness.
- Avoid taking with dairy alone; separate from antacids, iron, zinc, and calcium supplements.
- Use only for bacterial infections when prescribed; resistance can develop.
Pregnancy
Generally avoided when alternatives are suitable; use only when a clinician judges it necessary.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; discuss use with a clinician, especially for prolonged treatment.
Interactions
- Tizanidine: combination can cause dangerously low blood pressure and sedation.
- Warfarin: may increase bleeding risk; monitoring may be needed.
- Theophylline: ciprofloxacin can raise levels and toxicity risk.
- Antacids and mineral supplements can reduce absorption; separate doses.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.