Ciprofloxacin – Broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic for serious infections.
Get expert medical advice and same-day prescriptions from qualified UK doctors through our secure online consultation platform.
- Professional online consultation and prescription
- Same-day service when clinically appropriate
- Secure delivery to your chosen pharmacy
Secure Telehealth Platform Trusted by Over 150,000 Patients
What is Ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin is a powerful fluoroquinolone antibiotic reserved for serious bacterial infections that don’t respond to safer alternatives. While highly effective, it carries significant risks and is only prescribed when the benefits clearly outweigh the potential serious side effects.
Book an online consultation if you have a serious bacterial infection that hasn’t responded to other antibiotics, or if you’re experiencing symptoms of complicated infections. Our GPs can assess whether Ciprofloxacin is necessary and appropriate for your specific condition while ensuring proper monitoring for side effects.
What is Ciprofloxacin used for?
- Complicated urinary tract infections
- Respiratory tract infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Bone and joint infections
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Anthrax exposure (post-exposure prophylaxis)
- Pseudomonas infections
- Traveller's diarrhoea (severe cases)
How does Ciprofloxacin work?
A fluoroquinolone antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing bacterial DNA replication and causing bacterial cell death.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
250-750 mg twice daily for 5-14 days, depending on infection type and severity.
Children
Generally avoided in children—only used when benefits outweigh risks under specialist supervision.
Important Notes
- Take at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after dairy products, antacids, or mineral supplements.
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent kidney problems.
- Complete the full course even if symptoms improve.
- Can be taken with or without food, but avoid dairy products.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Sleep disturbances
- Skin rash
- Joint or muscle pain
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Tendon rupture or tendinitis (especially Achilles tendon)
- Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)
- Central nervous system effects (seizures, confusion)
- Severe diarrhoea (C. difficile infection)
- Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation)
- Severe allergic reactions
Important Warnings
- BLACK BOX WARNING: Increased risk of tendon rupture and nerve damage—stop if you experience tendon pain or numbness.
- Avoid in children and teenagers due to risk of joint and cartilage damage.
- Tell your GP if you have epilepsy, kidney problems, or heart rhythm disorders.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure—increased risk of severe sunburn.
- Reserved for serious infections when safer alternatives are not suitable.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Dairy products, calcium, iron, zinc—take 2-6 hours apart to avoid reduced absorption.
- Warfarin—may significantly increase bleeding risk.
- Theophylline—may increase theophylline levels and toxicity.
- NSAIDs—may increase risk of seizures.
- Antacids and multivitamins—reduce ciprofloxacin absorption.
- Drugs affecting heart rhythm—increased risk of arrhythmias.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Ciprofloxacin considered a 'last resort' antibiotic?
Due to serious side effects like tendon rupture and nerve damage, it's reserved for serious infections where safer antibiotics haven't worked or aren't suitable.
What should I do if I experience tendon pain?
Stop taking Ciprofloxacin immediately and contact your GP. Tendon problems can occur during treatment or months after stopping.
Why can't I have dairy products with Ciprofloxacin?
Calcium in dairy products binds to Ciprofloxacin and prevents absorption, making the antibiotic much less effective.
How long after finishing Ciprofloxacin am I at risk of side effects?
Some serious side effects like tendon rupture and nerve damage can occur weeks to months after completing treatment.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14