What it is used for
- Some urinary tract and kidney infections
- Certain gut and travel-related infections
- Some respiratory infections
- Certain bone, joint and skin infections
- Some eye and ear infections (as drops)
- Specialist use for some serious infections
How it works
Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It blocks enzymes that bacteria need to copy their DNA, which stops them multiplying and helps clear the infection. It is usually reserved for situations where other antibiotics are not suitable.
How it is taken
Comes as tablets, a liquid, eye and ear drops, and an injection in hospital. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. Drink plenty of fluids while taking it. Avoid taking it at the same time as dairy products or supplements containing calcium, iron or zinc unless your pharmacist advises otherwise.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
Serious effects — get help
- Tendon pain, swelling or a sudden tendon snap (especially around the heel)
- New numbness, tingling, weakness or burning pain (possible nerve effects)
- Mood changes, confusion, anxiety, hallucinations or thoughts of self-harm
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling or breathing difficulty
- An irregular or fast heartbeat or fainting
- Severe, persistent or bloody diarrhoea
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Dairy products, and supplements with calcium, iron, zinc or magnesium (separate the timing)
- Antacids
- Tizanidine (should not be combined)
- Theophylline
- Blood thinners such as warfarin
- Some medicines that affect heart rhythm
- Certain diabetes medicines
Who should take care
- Fluoroquinolones can cause rare but serious and lasting tendon, muscle, nerve and mood effects, so they are used cautiously
- Tell your clinician about tendon problems, nerve problems or epilepsy
- Tell your clinician if you have heart rhythm problems
- Usually avoided in pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children unless specifically advised
- Avoid heavy sun exposure as it can increase sensitivity to sunlight