Ciprofloxacin for infection

About ciprofloxacin

What is ciprofloxacin used for?

Ciprofloxacin is a type of antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as chest infections, urine infections, prostatitis, infections of the digestive system, bone and joint infections, and some sexually transmitted infections.

Some eye infections are also treated with ciprofloxacin.

It works by killing the bacteria which are the cause of the infection.

Side effects of ciprofloxacin

Common side effects of ciprofloxacin are:

• Feeling sick.

• Being sick.

• Diarrhoea.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

How to manage ciprofloxacin side effects

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Who should not take ciprofloxacin

Some medicines aren’t suitable for certain health conditions or may require extra care. Before taking ciprofloxacin, it is important to let your doctor know:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breastfeeding.

• If you are under 18 years of age. This is because ciprofloxacin is only prescribed for children under the supervision of a doctor who is a specialist.

• If you have ever experienced a problem with your tendons, called tendonitis.

• If you have any problems with the way your kidneys work.

• If you have epilepsy or any other condition that causes fits.

• If you have high blood sugar levels (diabetes).

• If you have a heart condition, or if you have been told you have an unusual heartbeat.

• If you have a condition causing tired and weak muscles, called myasthenia gravis.

• If you know you have glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. This is a genetic disorder which causes problems after eating foods such as fava beans.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any medicine, especially to another quinolone antibiotic such as norfloxacin, ofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, or nalidixic acid.

How to take ciprofloxacin

• Read the information leaflet before you start, as it explains ciprofloxacin and its possible side effects.

• Take ciprofloxacin exactly as your doctor tells you. It’s usually taken twice a day, though some infections only need one dose. Check the label for your correct dose.

• Swallow the tablets whole with water. Don’t crush or chew them, and don’t take them with milk or fortified orange juice.

• You can take it before or after food. Try to take each dose about 12 hours apart, and drink plenty of water during the day.

• Do not drink milk and avoid antacids, and iron or zinc supplements for two hours before and two hours after each dose, as they stop the medicine from working properly.

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, when you remember, your next dose is due then take the dose which is due but leave out the forgotten one. Do not 'double up' to make up for a missed dose.

• Keep taking ciprofloxacin until you finish the full course unless your doctor tells you to stop. If you still feel unwell after finishing it, see your doctor.

• A course of treatment usually lasts for about a week, although it can range from 3-28 days. If you still feel unwell after finishing the course of treatment, go back to see your doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Remember to keep any routine appointments with your doctor. This is so your progress can be monitored.

• Ciprofloxacin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and avoid sunbeds, especially in strong sunlight.

• Check with a pharmacist before taking any other medicines. Avoid NSAID painkillers, such as ibuprofen, while on ciprofloxacin.

• Some people develop thrush (oral or vaginal) after taking a course of antibiotics. If you think you have thrush, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

• This antibiotic may stop the oral typhoid vaccine from working. If you are due to have any vaccinations, make sure the person treating you knows that you are taking this medicine.

• Ciprofloxacin may make you feel light-headed and impair your ability to concentrate. Make sure your reactions are normal before you drive and before you use tools or machines.

• If you have diabetes, you may need to check your blood glucose levels more regularly, as ciprofloxacin can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.

How to store ciprofloxacin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• If you have been given liquid medicine, it will have been made up by the pharmacy and lasts for 14 days.

• Remember to check the expiry date on the bottle and do not use it after this date.
  

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for ciprofloxacin to work?

Ciprofloxacin starts to work straight away, with most people noticing an improvement in their symptoms after 2-3 days. Always finish your course of treatment even if you are feeling better.

Is it safe to take ciprofloxacin during pregnancy?

It’s usually not recommended to take ciprofloxacin during pregnancy as the guaranteed safety of it is unknown. Always let your doctor know if you are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant so that a safer antibiotic can be prescribed.

Can you drink alcohol while taking ciprofloxacin?

Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking ciprofloxacin. However, alcohol can make side effects such as nausea, dizziness, or stomach upset worse, so it’s best to drink only in moderation or avoid it altogether.

Is ciprofloxacin a penicillin?

No, ciprofloxacin is not a penicillin. Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, which works differently from penicillins. It’s often used when bacteria don’t respond to penicillin-type antibiotics.

Can you eat bananas with ciprofloxacin?

Yes, you can eat bananas with ciprofloxacin. Bananas do not interfere with how ciprofloxacin works and are safe to eat while taking the antibiotic.

What should you avoid when taking ciprofloxacin?

When taking ciprofloxacin, you should avoid having dairy products at the time of dose, antacids and supplements - especially iron, calcium, and zinc - within 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after your dose, and large amounts of alcohol.