Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic your doctor may prescribe for urinary tract infections, some respiratory infections, certain gastrointestinal bugs, skin and soft tissue infections, and prostatitis. It kills bacteria by blocking their ability to copy DNA. Because it’s strong, you should use it only when prescribed and follow directions closely.
Take the tablet with a full glass of water. Typical adult doses range from 250–500 mg twice daily for milder infections to 500–750 mg twice daily for more serious ones; some cases need IV dosing in hospital. Your clinician will adjust the dose if you have kidney problems. Finish the full course even if you feel better.
Avoid antacids, calcium, iron, magnesium supplements, sucralfate, and multivitamins within two hours before or six hours after a dose — they bind ciprofloxacin and cut its absorption. Cut back on caffeine; ciprofloxacin can make caffeine effects stronger. Also, protect skin from strong sun — the drug can increase sun sensitivity.
Stop the drug and call your doctor right away for sudden tendon pain, swelling, or a popping feeling — ciprofloxacin can cause tendonitis and even tendon rupture, especially the Achilles, and this risk can continue after treatment ends. Report new numbness, tingling, or weakness; the drug has been linked to peripheral neuropathy that can be long-lasting.
If you have severe diarrhea, fever, or bloody stools, seek care immediately — antibiotics can trigger C. difficile infection. Ciprofloxacin may raise warfarin levels (your INR may need closer checks) and can lengthen the QT interval when combined with certain heart or psychiatric drugs. Always list all prescription meds, over-the-counter products, and supplements to your provider.
Pregnancy and children: ciprofloxacin is generally avoided in pregnancy and in growing children unless there’s no safer alternative. Talk risks and benefits with your prescriber.
Antibiotic stewardship matters. Don’t use ciprofloxacin for viral illnesses like colds or flu. When possible, base treatment on culture results so you get the right drug and help reduce resistance. If symptoms don’t improve within 48–72 hours or you feel worse, contact your clinician.
Storage and missed doses: keep at room temperature away from moisture. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless the next dose is close — do not double up. Before starting, confirm the diagnosis, disclose all meds and supplements, and ask how kidney function affects dosing.
Ciprofloxacin can be very effective, but it carries real risks. Follow instructions, watch for warning signs, and call your healthcare provider quickly if anything unusual appears.
In a striking revelation, a West Yorkshire coroner has highlighted a potential lethal side effect of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin, linking it to suicidal behavior. This warning follows the tragic death of Dr. Robert Stevenson, who was prescribed the drug prior to his suicide. The incident has called for a reevaluation of the current medical guidelines surrounding the antibiotic's use.