Ciprofloxacin
Information about Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin uses
Ciprofloxacin is used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is also used in infections of urinary tract, tonsils, sinus, nose, throat, female genital organ, skin and soft tissues and lungs (pneumonia).
How ciprofloxacin works
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic. It works by stopping the action of a bacterial enzyme called DNA-gyrase. This prevents the bacterial cells from dividing and repairing, thereby killing them.
Common side effects of ciprofloxacin
Headache, Dizziness, Gastrointestinal disorder, Joint pain, Urticaria, Constipation, Coughing up blood, Psychosis, Hallucination, Blood disorder, Hepatitis (viral infection of liver), Neurotoxicity, Tendonitis, Prolonged QT interval, Hemorrhagic cystitis, Anaphylactic reaction, Toxic epidermal necrolysis, Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Anaphylactic shock, Exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Available Medicine for Ciprofloxacin
Expert advice for Ciprofloxacin
- Your doctor has prescribed Ciprofloxacin to cure your infection and improve symptoms.
- Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better.
- Discontinue Ciprofloxacin and inform your doctor immediately if you get a rash, itchy skin, swelling of face and mouth, or have difficulty in breathing.
- Diarrhea may occur as a side effect but should stop when your course is complete. Inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools.
- Notify your doctor if you feel pain in your tendons, numbness, or tingling sensations.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin
Q. Is Ciprofloxacin safe?
Ciprofloxacin is a relatively safe drug. However, it is not devoid of side effects and hence should only be taken if prescribed by a doctor in the appropriate dose, frequency, and duration as advised.
Q. Can the use of Ciprofloxacin cause diarrhea?
Yes, the use of Ciprofloxacin can cause diarrhea. It is an antibiotic which kills the harmful bacteria. However, it also affects the helpful bacteria in your stomach or intestine and causes diarrhea. If you are experiencing severe diarrhea, talk to your doctor about it.
Q. Can I stop taking Ciprofloxacin when I feel better?
No, do not stop taking Ciprofloxacin and complete the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cured.