Why is this medication prescribed?
Ciprofloxacin is used to treat or prevent certain infections caused by bacteria. Ciprofloxacin is also used to treat or prevent anthrax (a serious infection that may be spread on purpose as part of a bioterror attack) in people who may have been exposed to anthrax germs in the air. Ciprofloxacin extended-release (long-acting) tablets are used only to treat certain types of urinary tract infections. Ciprofloxacin is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by killing bacteria that cause infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
Other uses for this medicine
In the event of biological warfare, ciprofloxacin may be used to treat and prevent dangerous illnesses that are deliberately spread such as plague, tularemia, and anthrax of the skin or mouth. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How should this medicine be used?
Ciprofloxacin comes as a tablet, a suspension (liquid), and an extended-release tablet to take by mouth. The tablet and suspension are usually taken twice a day, in the morning and evening, with or without food. The extended-release tablets are usually taken once a day. Cipro XR brand extended-release tablets may be taken with or without food. Proquin XR brand extended-release tablets should be taken with a main meal of the day, preferably the evening meal. Take ciprofloxacin at around the same time(s) every day. The length of your treatment depends on the type of infection you have. Your doctor will tell you how long to take ciprofloxacin. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ciprofloxacin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Do not take ciprofloxacin with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone. However, you may take ciprofloxacin with a meal that includes these foods or drinks.
Swallow the tablets whole; do not split, crush, or chew them. If you cannot swallow tablets whole, tell your doctor.
If you are taking the suspension, shake the bottle very well for 15 seconds before each use to mix the medication evenly. Swallow the correct dose without chewing the granules in the suspension. Close the bottle completely after each use. Do not give the suspension to a patient through a feeding tube.
You should begin feeling better during the first few days of your treatment with ciprofloxacin. If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor. If you are being treated for a urinary tract infection, call your doctor if you develop fever or back pain during or after your treatment. These symptoms may be signs that your infection is worsening.
Take ciprofloxacin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Do not stop taking ciprofloxacin unless you experience the symptoms of tendinitis or tendon rupture described in the IMPORTANT WARNING section or the symptoms of allergic reaction described in the SIDE EFFECTS section. If you stop taking ciprofloxacin too soon or if you skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
LegalView Blog Announces Recruitment of Mesothelioma Victims for New Clinical Trial Combining Chemotherapy and Radiation Treatments
LegalView made available the details of a new clinical trial, which will test chemotherapy and radiation methods rather than surgery as a treatment among mesothelioma patients. Victims of mesothelioma cancer are currently being recruited for the study, which will likely last 13 weeks.
LegalView Reports Results of a Breakthrough Study Investigating Link Between Genetic Predisposition and Developing Mesothelioma Cancer
LegalView informed readers to the results of a scientific investigation studying the potential link between genetic components and developing mesothelioma cancer. Scientists determined that genetic responses occurred after a specific type of asbestos was introduced to cells within the lining of the lungs.
LegalView Reports Details of War Veteran Brain Injuries Overlooked By Officials for Years
LegalView described the plight of a former U.S. soldier whose traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) were continually overlooked by the military causing severe disabilities only a few years after his discharge. The soldier, who suffered several concussions during the war in Iraq, now deals with memory loss, confusion, nightmares and hearing/visibility issues on a daily basis.
LegalView Reports Cancer Risk for St. Louis Residents After Unapproved Asbestos Removal During Demolition
LegalView recently informed mesothelioma blog readers of improper removal of asbestos in St. Louis that may have left thousands of residents at risk for developing mesothelioma cancer. The city used an unapproved "wet method" of removing asbestos fibers, which may expose residents to the asbestos dust once the water evaporates.