Ciprofloxacin — what it treats and what you should watch for
Ciprofloxacin is a commonly used antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone family. Doctors prescribe it for urinary tract infections, some kinds of bacterial gastroenteritis, prostatitis, and certain respiratory or skin infections. It kills bacteria by stopping their ability to copy DNA. That makes it fast and effective when the bug is susceptible.
How to take ciprofloxacin safely
Take ciprofloxacin exactly as your prescriber tells you. Most people take it twice a day, with or without food, but avoid taking it with milk, yogurt, or calcium-fortified drinks because calcium can reduce absorption. Also separate antacids, magnesium or aluminum supplements, sucralfate, and some multivitamins by at least 4 hours from your dose.
If you have reduced kidney function, your provider may lower the dose. Don’t stop early just because you feel better — stopping an antibiotic too soon can let the infection come back and encourage resistance.
Common side effects and important warnings
Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, and headache are the most common side effects. A less common but serious issue is tendon problems — like tendonitis or even tendon rupture — especially in older adults, those on steroids, or people with kidney, heart, or lung transplants. If you feel sudden pain or swelling in a tendon, stop the drug and contact your doctor right away.
Ciprofloxacin can also cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. There’s a small risk of QT prolongation (a heart rhythm change) when combined with other drugs that affect the heart rhythm, so check with your prescriber about all medicines you take.
It’s generally avoided in pregnancy and in growing children unless no safe alternative exists. Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
Antibiotic resistance matters. Ciprofloxacin is powerful, but it won’t work against viral illnesses like colds or most bronchitis cases. Use it only when a bacterial cause is likely or confirmed.
Thinking about buying ciprofloxacin online? Be careful. Only use licensed pharmacies and follow prescription rules. Our site has several guides on safe online buying and how to spot risky pharmacies, which is useful if you’re comparing options or price quotes.
If you have questions about dosing, interactions with other drugs, or whether ciprofloxacin is right for your infection, call your prescriber or a pharmacist. They can help match the drug to the bug, adjust doses for kidneys, and monitor for side effects so you get the benefit without unnecessary risk.
Exploring alternatives to Flagyl in 2025, this article delves into several viable options, highlighting their unique benefits and drawbacks. From Ciprofloxacin's broad-spectrum activity to other noteworthy contenders, ensure you're informed about the latest treatments available. This guide aims to offer comprehensive insights into each alternative, aiding in informed decision-making for both patients and healthcare providers.
