Ciprofloxacin.

This medication is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Ciprofloxacin belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic only treats bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

This medication may be taken with or without food, usually twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, or use as directed by your doctor. Take this medication 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking any products containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. Some examples include quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), vitamins/minerals, antacids, dairy products (e.g., milk, yogurt), calcium-enriched juice, and sucralfate. Other products include bismuth subsalicylate, iron, and zinc. They bind with ciprofloxacin preventing its full absorption.

SIDE EFFECTS.

Stomach upset, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, headache, vision changes or dizziness may occur during the first few days. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: sunburn-like skin reaction (sun sensitivity). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: seizures, mental/mood changes (including rare thoughts of suicide), numbness/tingling of the hands/feet, hearing loss, easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat or fever, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, stomach pain, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, unusual change in the amount of urine, unusual fatigue. This medication may rarely cause tendon damage (e.g., tendonitis, tendon rupture). Seek immediate medical attention, rest, and stop exercising if you develop joint/muscle/tendon pain or swelling. This medication may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (pseudomembranous colitis) due to a resistant bacteria. This condition may occur weeks after treatment has stopped. Do not use anti-diarrhea products or narcotic pain medications if you have the following symptoms because these products may make them worse. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop: persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, blood/mucus in your stool. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a new vaginal yeast infection (oral or vaginal fungal infection). Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge or other new symptoms. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS.
Before taking ciprofloxacin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other quinolone antibiotics such as levofloxacin; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: seizures, brain or nervous system disorders, kidney disease, joint/tendon problems (e.g., tendonitis, bursitis), liver disease, blood vessel problems. This drug may make you dizzy or light-headed; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths or sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its side effects (e.g., tendon problems), especially if they are also taking corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone, hydrocortisone). Caution is advised when using this drug in children because they may be more sensitive to its possible side effects (e.g., joint/tendon problems). Discuss the risks and benefits with the doctor. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.

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