lambeth-hp-logo
    Facebook-f X-twitter Instagram Linkedin
    lambeth-hp-logo

      Ciprofloxacin

      Generic Name: Ciprofloxacin
      Common Brand Names: Cipro, Ciproxin, Ciloxan, Proquin

      Introduction

      Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic from the fluoroquinolone class. It is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory infections, skin infections, and gastrointestinal infections.

      Conditions of Use (Indications)

      1. Urinary Tract Infections: Treatment of cystitis, pyelonephritis, and other UTI-related infections.
      2. Respiratory Tract Infections: Pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, and sinusitis.
      3. Skin Infections: Particularly effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other gram-negative organisms.
      4. Gastrointestinal Infections: Such as traveler’s diarrhea and infections caused by Salmonella and Shigella species.

      Mechanism of Action

      Ciprofloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. By preventing the supercoiling and relaxation of bacterial DNA, Ciprofloxacin induces DNA damage and ultimately bacterial cell death.

      Side Effects

      1. Common:

      • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
      • Headache, dizziness, and insomnia.

      2. Serious:

      • Tendonitis and tendon rupture (especially in the Achilles tendon).
      • QT prolongation (risk of arrhythmias).
      • Peripheral neuropathy, confusion, and hallucinations in elderly patients.

      Harmful Interactions

      1. Antacids: Can reduce the absorption of Ciprofloxacin when taken together.
      2. CYP450 Inhibitors: Drugs such as fluconazole and erythromycin can increase Ciprofloxacin levels, increasing the risk of side effects.
      3. Warfarin: Ciprofloxacin can increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.

      Contraindications

      1. Hypersensitivity to Ciprofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones.
      2. Tendon disorders or history of tendon rupture related to fluoroquinolone use.
      3. Pregnant women and children under the age of 18 due to concerns about tendon damage and cartilage toxicity.

      Latest References

      1. Brown, D. L., et al. (2023). “Ciprofloxacin and Its Role in the Treatment of Multi-Drug Resistant Infections.” Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkz354
      2. FDA. (2022). “Fluoroquinolone Safety Information and Recommendations.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

        Recent Stories