Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride

Generic Name: ciprofloxacin hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Cipro

Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride is a fluoroquinolone antibacterial indicated in adults and select pediatric patients for treating infections caused by susceptible bacteria including skin, bone, intra-abdominal, respiratory, and urinary tract infections.

Overview

Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride is a fluoroquinolone antibacterial indicated in adults and select pediatric patients for treating infections caused by susceptible bacteria including skin, bone, intra-abdominal, respiratory, and urinary tract infections.

Uses

Indicated in adults for skin and skin structure infections, bone and joint infections, complicated intra-abdominal infections, infectious diarrhea, typhoid fever, gonorrhea, inhalational anthrax post-exposure, plague, chronic bacterial prostatitis, lower respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and acute sinusitis.

Dosage

Adult dosing varies by infection type, ranging from 250 mg to 750 mg orally every 8-12 hours for 3-60 days depending on indication. Pediatric dosing is weight-based. Renal impairment requires dosage adjustments.

Side Effects

Most common adverse reactions (1% or more) include nausea, diarrhea, liver function test abnormalities, vomiting, and rash. Serious reactions include tendinitis, tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and psychiatric effects.

Interactions

Ciprofloxacin is a CYP1A2 inhibitor. Contraindicated with tizanidine. Avoid theophylline, QT-prolonging drugs, and duloxetine. Use caution with antidiabetic agents, warfarin, and methotrexate.

Warnings

Fluoroquinolones are associated with disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse reactions including tendinitis, tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, CNS effects, and exacerbation of myasthenia gravis. Additional warnings for hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation, and aortic aneurysm risk. Contraindicated with tizanidine and in hypersensitivity to quinolones.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride used for?

Indicated in adults for skin and skin structure infections, bone and joint infections, complicated intra-abdominal infections, infectious diarrhea, typhoid fever, gonorrhea, inhalational anthrax post-exposure, plague, chronic bacterial prostatitis, lower respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and acute sinusitis.

What are the side effects of Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride?

Most common adverse reactions (1% or more) include nausea, diarrhea, liver function test abnormalities, vomiting, and rash. Serious reactions include tendinitis, tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and psychiatric effects.

What are the important warnings for Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride?

Fluoroquinolones are associated with disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse reactions including tendinitis, tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, CNS effects, and exacerbation of myasthenia gravis. Additional warnings for hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation, and aortic aneurysm risk. Contraindicated with tizanidine and in hypersensitivity to quinolones.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.