Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin, often called Cipro, is a type of antibiotic from a family of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. Cipro is an effective remedy against travellers' diarrhoea, and is available only by prescription. If you are diagnosed with infective diarrhoea, ask our doctors about whether Ciprofloxacin is right for you. Always follow your doctor's directions carefully and precisely when taking this, or any other, antibiotic. Also, be aware of the side effects and warnings as they pertain to this medication.
How Does Ciprofloxacin Work?
The way Ciprofloxacin works is by preventing bacteria cells from reproducing. It can be particularly effective when combined with other antibiotics for certain illnesses. Your doctor will tell you if you should take more than one medication for your travellers' diarrhea.
Ciprofloxacin Dosage
The dosage of ciprofloxacin that you should take will be determined by your doctor. If your symptoms of infective diarrhoea are caught quickly, you may be able to resolve your symptoms by taking one, 750 mg dose of the drug. If symptoms persist, or if you must wait more than a day or two before beginning treatment, your doctor may recommend taking 500 mg, twice daily, for up to three days. It is also possible to prevent traveller's diarrhea, particularly that associated with malaria; ask your doctor for more information.
How Effective is Ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin is quite effective against traveller's diarrhea. Its efficacy may be greater if you take it as soon as you notice the symptoms of an intestinal infection. It may also be more effective if you take it with an anti-diarrhoea medication. Ask your doctor more about this.
Ciprofloxacin Side Effects
Most of the time, people may take ciprofloxacin with mild or no side effects. When side effects occur, they often include nausea, dizziness, headache, diarrhoea or lightheadedness. Rarely, it may cause photo-sensitivity in certain patients. Do not spend time in strong sunlight if you are taking this medication. Ciprofloxacin may also increase your risk of muscle weakness or tendinitis. It may make you prone to thrush or vaginal yeast infections. Like any medication, ciprofloxacin can cause severe allergic reactions. If you experience trouble breathing or oral swelling, go to your nearest health centre or call for emergency help.
What Other Medications Affect Ciprofloxacin?
An anti-diarrhoea medication may make the ciprofloxacin more effective. This medication may interact with other prescription medications, including muscle relaxants and asthma medications. Some antacids may block absorption of ciprofloxacin. Taking calcium, iron or zinc may also make your antibiotic less effective. Avoid taking caffeine and dairy products at the same time that you take your ciprofloxacin. Always tell your doctor about any medications you are taking before beginning a new prescription.
Who Should Not Take Ciprofloxacin?
If you have had an allergic reaction or serious side effects to ciprofloxacin or related antibiotics in the past, do not take this medication. If you have heart problems or are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medication, you may not be able to take this medication; discuss your concerns with your doctor. Pregnant women and children under 18 should also not take this drug unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.
