Cipro
Ciprofloxacin
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action Cipro
Cipro is a second-generation chemotherapeutic antibiotic, which is produced synthetically and has a highly specific mechanism of action. Ciprofloxacin belongs to so called fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Its action lies in inhibiting the process of DNA rewinding in bacteria and thus prevents them from developing and proliferating.
Therapeutic Uses of Cipro
Ciprofloxacin is used for prevention and treatment of severe bacterial infections, such as, for example, anthrax, plague, smallpox, tularemia, and other dangerous infections, which can also be spread deliberately in case of biological warfare.
This drug is not good for treatment of common respiratory or viral diseases. This is not an over-the-counter drug. It is absolutely imperative that you use it under the supervision of a qualified doctor.
In some cases, extended-release tablets can be used to treat urinary infections.
Direction of use of Cipro
Cipro is available in tablets (also as extended-release tablets) and suspension liquid. Types of extended-release tablets include Cipro XR brand and Proquin XR brand. The former can be taken by mouth with or without food, and the latter should be taken with dinner or, more preferably, during the evening meal. Tablets and suspension are usually administered twice a day – in the morning and in the evening. It is highly recommended to schedule the use of the drug and to strictly follow by the schedule.
Another important thing is that you should not mix these types of the drug. Use only the type prescribed by your doctor. Whatever type is prescribed to you depends on the type of infection and severity of your case.
If you are using tablets, do not crush or chew them. Swallow them whole.
If you are using Cipro suspension, shake the bottle well before use.
Dose of Cipro, if Missed
If you have missed a scheduled dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time to take your next scheduled dose, skip it and keep to the schedule further on. Do not try to make up for the missed dose by doubling your next dose!
How to Store Cipro
Store Cipro in a cool and dry place, at room temperature and out of the reach of children. Do not expose the drug to direct sunlight, heat or moisture. Suspension can be stored in the refrigerator. If you are using Cipro suspension, make sure it is stored safely and the bottle is closed tightly. Do not store suspension for more than 24 days. Do not take expired suspension or tablets. Consult your local waste disposal organization and have the expired tablets and suspension discarded properly.
More Information About Cipro
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic, which may trigger side effects in some people. For this reason, it must be used under the supervision of a qualified physician. If you are using Cipro, do not share it with others.
Ciprofloxacin therapy increases the risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture. It may occur during the treatment course, and the risk persists for a few months after the treatment is finished. This condition may occur in any part of the body.
Cipro may cause muscle weakness in people dealing with myasthenia gravis.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Cipro
Use Cipro with caution. Please, note the following:
• Be careful if you have allergies to Ciprofloxacin or any other quinolone or fluoroquinolone antibiotic.
• If you are using Zanaflex, your doctor may advise you not to take Cipro.
• Share information with your health care providers about all medicines you are using, have used recently or are about to use. Do not combine Cipro with anticoagulants, antidepressants, anti-inflammatory medications. If you are using such drugs or have just stopped using them, ask your doctor if it is safe to use Cipro at this point.
• You must use Cipro very carefully if you are using supplements containing calcium, zinc, iron; antacids that contain magnesium hydroxide or aluminum, hydroxide. If there seems to be no alternative but to combine Cipro with these, calculate intervals using your doctor’s help.
• If you or someone in your family has ever had arrhythmia, infarction, nerve diseases, potassium deficiency, kidney or liver problems, arteriosclerosis.
• Cipro is likely to cause drowsiness, weakness and fatigue. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are using this drug.
Possible Adverse Effects
Seek medical assistance if you have any of the following adverse reactions:
Stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular urination, dizziness, headache, vaginal discharges or discomfort.
If you have serious side effects, stop using Cipro and turn to your doctor immediately. These reactions include:
Joint pain, muscular weakness, fatigue, depression, suicidal mood or behavior, involuntary muscle movements, nervous breakdowns, fainting, arrhythmia, breathing difficulties, wheezing breath, lack of appetite, lack of energy, dark urine.
