Ciprofloxacin Tablets, Brand Name : Ciprodac 500

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic that belongs to a class of drugs called fluoroquinolones. It is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections in different parts of the body. It works by killing the bacteria or preventing their growth. It is important to note that ciprofloxacin is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it can treat many different types of bacterial infections. Some of the conditions it is used for include:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia

• Skin, bone, and joint infections

• Certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea

• Infectious diarrhea

• Typhoid fever

• Anthrax and plague (for treatment and prevention)

In some cases, ciprofloxacin is only used when other antibiotics are not suitable due to the risk of serious side effects.

The dosage and length of treatment with ciprofloxacin vary depending on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's age and other health conditions. Ciprofloxacin tablets are available in various strengths, including 250 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg.

• For most infections, the typical adult dose is 250 mg to 750 mg, taken twice a day, every 12 hours.

• For some infections, a single dose may be sufficient.

• For serious or complicated infections, the dose might be higher, and treatment can last for several weeks or even months.

It is crucial to follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or on the prescription label. Do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed, and do not stop taking it even if you start to feel better. Stopping early can lead to the infection not being fully treated and the bacteria becoming resistant to the antibiotic.

Common side effects of ciprofloxacin include:

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Headache

• Dizziness

More serious, but less common, side effects can occur. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Tendon problems: Ciprofloxacin has a boxed warning from the FDA about the risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture, particularly in the Achilles tendon. This can happen during treatment or even months after you stop taking the medication.

• Nerve damage (Peripheral Neuropathy): Symptoms can include burning, tingling, or numbness in the arms or legs. This can be permanent in rare cases.

• Central Nervous System (CNS) effects: These can include confusion, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, seizures, and trouble sleeping.

• Heart-related issues: This includes an irregular heartbeat or a sudden racing heartbeat.

• Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms can include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; hives; or difficulty breathing.

• Worsening of Myasthenia Gravis: Ciprofloxacin can worsen muscle weakness in people with this condition.

Before taking ciprofloxacin, inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have:

• A history of allergic reactions to ciprofloxacin or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics.

• Problems with tendons.

• Epilepsy or other conditions that put you at risk of seizures.

• Kidney or liver disease.

• Diabetes.

• A history of heart problems, including an irregular heartbeat.

• Myasthenia gravis.

You should also tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking, as ciprofloxacin can interact with other drugs. Avoid taking ciprofloxacin tablets with dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, or with products that have added calcium, as they can interfere with the body's absorption of the antibiotic.