Ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin – Full Introduction

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections, and some skin infections. It is known for its potent bactericidal activity.

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Drug Class

• Fluoroquinolone antibiotic

• Bactericidal (kills bacteria)

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Mechanism of Action

Ciprofloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for:

• DNA replication

• Transcription

• Repair

This leads to inhibition of bacterial growth and cell death.

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Therapeutic Uses

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Respiratory tract infections (pneumonia, bronchitis)

• Gastrointestinal infections (e.g., typhoid, shigellosis)

• Skin and soft tissue infections

• Bone and joint infections

• Anthrax exposure (post-exposure prophylaxis)

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Benefits

• Broad-spectrum activity against gram-negative and some gram-positive bacteria

• High oral bioavailability

• Effective for complicated infections and resistant organisms

• Available in oral and intravenous formulations

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Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

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Serious but Rare Side Effects

• Tendinitis and tendon rupture (especially Achilles tendon)

• Peripheral neuropathy

• QT interval prolongation → risk of arrhythmias

• CNS effects (dizziness, confusion, seizures in rare cases)

• Hypersensitivity reactions

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Contraindications & Precautions

• Hypersensitivity to ciprofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones

• History of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use

• Severe renal impairment (dose adjustment required)

• Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and children under 18 unless necessary

• Avoid concomitant use with tizanidine

• Take separate from calcium, iron, magnesium, or aluminum supplements to prevent reduced absorption

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Dosage & Administration

• Adults: 250–750 mg every 12 hours depending on infection severity

• Children: Dose based on body weight (only in severe infections, specialist-prescribed)

• Oral or IV formulations

• Drink plenty of fluids during therapy

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Conclusion

Ciprofloxacin is a potent, broad-spectrum antibiotic suitable for many infections, but its use requires caution due to tendon, CNS, and cardiac risks. Proper dosing and monitoring are important to minimize adverse effects and resistance development.