What is ciprofloxacin and how does it work?

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic designed to treat various bacterial infections by halting bacterial growth. It is not effective against viral infections like the common cold.

 

What are the uses of ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin is employed to treat bacterial infections, including but not limited to urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, strep throat, ear infections, endocarditis, pneumonia, or joint infections.

 

How do you use ciprofloxacin?

Follow the prescribed dosage provided by your doctor. Typically taken twice a day, with or without food, shake the bottle well before measuring your dose with the provided cup.

Do not use a household spoon or chew the liquid suspension. It is advised to avoid certain products, as they may interact with ciprofloxacin; take it 2 hours before or 6 hours after consuming these items. Details can be found in the leaflet or discussed with your pharmacist.

 

What are the side effects and risks of ciprofloxacin?

Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, dizziness/lightheadedness, headache, or trouble sleeping. Seek medical attention for severe side effects such as excessive bruising, dark or discolored urine, signs of liver problems, severe dizziness, joint or tendon pain, or irregular heartbeats. Prolonged use may lead to oral thrush or yeast infections.

In rare cases, ciprofloxacin can cause severe intestinal conditions, including persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramping/pain, and blood or mucus in stool, occurring during or months after treatment.

 

Who should avoid ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin might include components that could trigger allergies, though severe reactions are uncommon. If you have a history of diabetes, certain organ transplants, heart issues, kidney disease, mental/mood disorders, specific genetic conditions, or tendon ruptures, this medication may not be the most suitable option for you.

For further inquiries about the medication, feel free to consult with a doctor on Laso MD by creating an account.

 

Is ciprofloxacin still effective after its expiration date?

Ciprofloxacin does have an expiration date. Similar to many antibiotics, it is generally advised to consider the medication expired one year from the date it was dispensed by a pharmacy. While taking expired ciprofloxacin is not inherently dangerous, its potency may diminish, potentially impacting its effectiveness.

If your ciprofloxacin prescription has expired, it is recommended to utilize a medication take-back program for proper disposal. Additionally, discuss with your doctor about obtaining a new prescription if necessary.

It’s crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as directed and avoid saving leftover medication for future illnesses, even if you start feeling better during the course.