Cipro

What is it?

Composition

Cipro contains the active substance Ciprofloxacin, which is a broad-spectrum antibiotic from the fluoroquinolone group. In addition to the main component, Cipro tablets also contain excipients, which may vary depending on the form of release and the manufacturer. Typically, among the excipients you can find:

• Microcrystalline cellulose - a filler that provides the shape of the tablet.
• Crospovidone - a substance that promotes rapid dissolution of the tablet in the stomach.
• Colloidal silicon dioxide - used as an anti-adhesive agent.
• Magnesium stearate - acts as a lubricant for tablets.
• Titanium dioxide - often used as a dye for the tablet shell.

Cipro release forms can include tablets of various dosages (250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg), as well as suspensions for oral administration and solutions for infusions. The composition of a specific drug and its excipients depends on the form of release and the country of manufacture.

How to use?

Cipro should be used strictly as prescribed by your doctor, following all his recommendations and the instructions included with the drug. Correct adherence to the dosage regimen and time of administration significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment and reduces the risk of side effects.

1. Meal intake: Cipro tablets can be taken with or without food, but be sure to drink plenty of water. Avoid taking with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices, as they can reduce the absorption of the drug.
2. Missed dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
3. Duration of administration: Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms disappear early. Not taking antibiotics enough can lead to the development of resistant strains of bacteria and the return of the infection.

Also, avoid exposure to direct sunlight and the use of tanning beds during treatment, as Ciprofloxacin can increase the sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet radiation.

How does it work?

Cipro acts as a powerful antibiotic that targets a wide range of bacterial infections. The primary mechanism of action of Ciprofloxacin, the active ingredient in Cipro, is to inhibit bacterial enzymes known as DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. These enzymes are essential for bacterial DNA reproduction and repair.

When Cipro blocks these enzymes, the bacterial DNA is destroyed, which stops the bacteria from growing and dividing. As a result, the bacterial cells die and the infection begins to subside. Because of its broad spectrum of action, Cipro effectively kills both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, making it suitable for treating a variety of different infections, including urinary tract, respiratory tract and skin infections.

When used correctly, Cipro quickly reduces the symptoms of infection and promotes recovery, but it is important to complete the full course of treatment to avoid the emergence of resistant strains of bacteria.

Indications

Cipro is used to treat various infections caused by bacteria sensitive to Ciprofloxacin. Main indications include:

• Urinary tract infections, including cystitis and pyelonephritis.
• Respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis, pneumonia.
• Skin and soft tissue infections, including abscesses and infected wounds.
• Bone and joint infections, such as osteomyelitis.
• Gastrointestinal infections, including gastroenteritis and typhoid fever.
• Prophylaxis and treatment of anthrax, as well as some forms of plague.

Cipro may also be prescribed in cases of complicated infections when other antibiotics have proven ineffective, due to its broad spectrum of activity and ability to kill bacteria resistant to other drugs.

Contraindications

Cipro has a number of contraindications that must be taken into account before starting treatment. The drug should not be used in the following cases:

• Allergy or hypersensitivity to Ciprofloxacin, other fluoroquinolones or any other components of the drug.
• Children under 18 years of age, since Ciprofloxacin may adversely affect the development of bones and joints.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, since Ciprofloxacin may harm the fetus or newborn.
• Simultaneous administration with drugs that prolong the QT interval, such as some antiarrhythmic drugs (eg, amiodarone) or antipsychotics.

In addition, special caution should be exercised when prescribing Cipro to patients with diseases of the central nervous system, such as epilepsy, since the drug can cause seizures and other adverse reactions from the nervous system.

Side effects

Cipro can cause a number of side effects that range from mild to serious. Although many patients tolerate the treatment without significant problems, it is important to be aware of the possible risks.

The most common side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may be accompanied by abdominal pain.
• Headaches and dizziness, sometimes leading to temporary weakness.
• Changes in liver function tests, which may indicate temporary liver dysfunction.

More serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:

• Tendon damage, especially in older adults and patients taking corticosteroids. This may include pain, swelling, or difficulty moving.
• Severe allergic reactions, including hives, facial swelling, and difficulty breathing.
• Nervous system problems, such as seizures, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, and other changes in mood and behavior.

In rare cases, serious abnormal heart rhythms may occur, especially in patients predisposed to such problems, and photosensitivity - increased sensitivity to sunlight.