Ciprofloxacin Uses and Side Effects
Table of Contents
Ciprofloxacin – Introduction
Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial DNA replication. It is commonly prescribed for infections of the urinary tract, respiratory tract, skin, bones, and gastrointestinal system.
Composition

- Active Ingredient: Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride
- Dosage Forms:
- Tablets: 250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg
- Oral Suspension
- Injection (IV)
Uses
Ciprofloxacin is used to treat:
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
- Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis)
- Respiratory Tract Infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis
- Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
- Bone and Joint Infections (Osteomyelitis, Septic Arthritis)
- Gastrointestinal Infections (Bacterial gastroenteritis)
- Septicemia / Blood Infections
- Bacterial Prostatitis
- Typhoid (Salmonella infections)
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Headache, dizziness
- Taste changes
Serious / Rare Side Effects:
- Tendon rupture or tendonitis (especially in older adults)
- Nerve problems (tingling, numbness, or peripheral neuropathy)
- Irregular heartbeat (Arrhythmia)
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
Precautions:
- Use only under medical supervision.
- Patients with kidney, liver, or heart problems should exercise caution.
- Complete the full course to prevent bacterial resistance.
Famous Brand Names
- Ciproxin
- Ciprobay
- Ciprobid
- Ciplox
- Ciprocin
- Ciproxin XR
Here’s a comparison table of Ciprofloxacin with other common antibiotics in English, including uses, benefits, side effects, and popular brands:
Antibiotic | Type / Class | Common Uses | Key Benefits | Common Side Effects | Popular Brands |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ciprofloxacin | Fluoroquinolone | UTIs, kidney infections, typhoid, pneumonia, skin infections, bone & joint infections | Broad-spectrum, effective against Gram-negative bacteria, oral & IV forms | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, tendonitis (rare) | Ciproxin, Ciprobay, Ciprobid, Ciplox, Ciprocin |
Amoxicillin | Penicillin | Ear infections, sinusitis, strep throat, UTIs | Safe for children, well-tolerated | Rash, nausea, diarrhea, allergic reactions | Amoxil, Moxatag, Augmentin |
Azithromycin | Macrolide | Respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections | Once-daily dosing, broad coverage | Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, liver issues (rare) | Zithromax, Azithrocin |
Doxycycline | Tetracycline | Acne, respiratory infections, malaria prophylaxis | Broad spectrum, effective against atypical bacteria | Photosensitivity, nausea, diarrhea | Vibramycin, Doryx, Doxyhexal |
Cefixime | Cephalosporin (3rd Gen) | UTIs, respiratory infections, typhoid | Effective against resistant bacteria | Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain | Suprax, Cefspan, Orafix |
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