Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, including travellers' diarrhoea. It works by stopping bacteria from multiplying, helping to clear infections quickly.
Ciprofloxacin
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Frequently Asked Questions for Ciprofloxacin
What is Ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, including travellers’ diarrhoea. It belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics and works by targeting bacteria responsible for infections.
How Does Ciprofloxacin Work?
Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that kills bacteria by blocking an enzyme (DNA gyrase) essential for bacterial reproduction. By preventing bacteria from replicating, ciprofloxacin effectively stops the infection from spreading, allowing the body to recover.
For travellers' diarrhoea, ciprofloxacin helps eliminate bacteria causing intestinal infections, reducing symptoms within two to three days.
How to Take Ciprofloxacin
- The dosage depends on the infection type – for travellers' diarrhoea, the usual dose is 250 mg to 750 mg twice a day.
- Tablets should be swallowed whole with water – do not break, crush, or chew them.
- Space doses 12 hours apart if taking twice a day.
- Can be taken with or without food, but avoid high-iron or calcium-rich foods (red meat, dairy products) two hours before and after taking it.
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve early, to prevent antibiotic resistance.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as possible unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
Side Effects
Most people tolerate ciprofloxacin well, but like all medications, it may cause side effects.
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Common side effects (affecting more than 1 in 100 people):
- Nausea or feeling sick.
- Diarrhoea or constipation.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
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Rare but serious side effects (affecting fewer than 1 in 100 people):
- Muscle pain or weakness.
- Swelling of joints or tendons.
- Anxiety or difficulty sleeping.
- Persistent diarrhoea lasting more than four days.
- Blood or mucus in the stool.
- Sudden breathlessness or chest tightness.
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Severe allergic reactions (seek emergency medical help):
- Seizures or fits.
- Skin rash or swelling around the face.
- Difficulty breathing or speaking.
If you experience any of the severe side effects, stop taking ciprofloxacin and seek medical attention immediately.
Warnings and Precautions
Ciprofloxacin is not suitable for everyone.
Do NOT take ciprofloxacin if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding unless specifically advised by a doctor.
- Are over 60 years old.
- Have a history of seizures, nervous system disorders, or brain conditions.
- Have kidney problems or are taking corticosteroids.
- Have had an organ transplant.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can affect the way ciprofloxacin works. Inform your doctor if you take:
- Steroids or methotrexate.
- Theophylline or aminophylline (for respiratory conditions).
- Phenytoin (for epilepsy).
- Warfarin or other blood thinners.
- Iron or zinc supplements – take ciprofloxacin at least two hours apart from these.
Taking antacids for heartburn can also reduce ciprofloxacin’s effectiveness. Wait at least two hours before or after taking an antacid.