Generic Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria. Cipro tablets and suspension (liquid) are used to treat pneumonia (lung infection); bronchitis (infection of the tubes that lead to the lungs); some types of gonorrhea (a sexually transmitted disease); diarrhea caused by bacteria; typhoid fever (a contagious illness common in developing countries); and bone, joint, skin, prostate (a male reproductive gland), sinus, and urinary tract (bladder) infections. Cipro is also used to prevent and/or treat anthrax in people exposed to anthrax germs in the air. Cipro is also used with another medication to treat certain infections of the internal organs. Cipro extended release (long-acting) tablets are used to treat urinary tract and kidney infections. Ciprofloxacin is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by killing bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.


 

FAQ

About Cipro
Bayer developed the first fluoroquinolone to be on the market, called ciprofloxacin (Cipro®). In 1987 Cipro was approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the United States as the first oral broad-spectrum antibiotic of this class. An intravenous formulation followed in 1991. Ciprofloxacin has been extensively studied and its safety profile is well documented in more than 32,000 publications. More than 250 million patients have been treated world-wide.

Who should not take Cipro?
• Anyone who may be allergic to this drug
• Anyone who may have a kidney disease without first talking to your doctor
• Anyone who may have a seizure disorder
• Anyone who may be pregnant or breastfeeding their baby
• Anyone who is less than 12 years old.

How do I take my Cipro?
Cipro is prescribed differently depending on what bacteria and disease is being treated. If you have a bacterial infection, the usual dosage is one tablet two times per day. For traveler's diarrhea, it is usually taken twice daily for 3 days at the onset of diarrhea. In some cases, your doctor will prescribe Cipro as a preventative measure for traveler's diarrhea. In that case, one tablet is taken each day starting on day one of travel and continuing for 2 days after travel. Take with a full glass of water and drink several more glasses of water during the day. Also, it should be taken at least 2 hours after a meal and in evenly spaced intervals.

For urinary tract infections, 1 tablet twice a day for 3 days is usually recommended.

What are the side effects of Cipro?
The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, lightheadedness, drowsiness, or ringing in ears. Always use a sunscreen if you are going to be in the sun. If any of these become bothersome, contact your doctor or pharmacist.


IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Notify your doctor, pharmacist or seek emergency medical attention if you begin to have a rash, difficulty breathing, tightness in your chest, hallucinations, seizures, muscle or joint pain.
Avoid taking aluminum of magnesium-containing antacids at the same time as Cipro. Antacids may be used, but should be taken either 2 hours after or 6 hours before the Cipro dose.
Avoid taking an iron-containing multivitamin at the same time as Cipro.
Always take the entire amount of medication prescribed, even if you feel better.
If you miss a dose of Cipro, take it when you realize it. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed. Do not take a double dose to catch up.
Do not share your drug with others. Keep it away from children and throw away any unused drug after the expiration date.