About Ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin (Ciprofloxacine) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial replication.

---

🔹 Uses of Ciprofloxacin:

Ciprofloxacin is commonly prescribed for infections caused by Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria. Major uses include:

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

   • Cystitis, pyelonephritis

2. Respiratory Tract Infections

   • Chronic bronchitis, pneumonia (especially caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa)

3. Gastrointestinal Infections

   • Infectious diarrhea (due to E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella)

   • Typhoid fever (Salmonella typhi)

4. Bone and Joint Infections

   • Osteomyelitis

5. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

6. Anthrax (Inhalation exposure)

   • Post-exposure prophylaxis and treatment

7. Sexually Transmitted Diseases

   • Gonorrhea (less commonly now due to resistance)

8. Intra-abdominal Infections

   • Usually in combination with metronidazole

9. Prostatitis and epididymitis

---

🔹 Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) / Side Effects of Ciprofloxacin:

Ciprofloxacin is generally well-tolerated, but it may cause various side effects. Some can be serious and require medical attention.

⚠️ Common Side Effects:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

• Rash

⚠️ Serious Adverse Effects:

1. Tendinitis and Tendon Rupture

   • Especially in elderly or those on corticosteroids

   • Commonly affects the Achilles tendon

2. CNS Effects

   • Dizziness, confusion, tremors

   • Hallucinations, seizures (rare)

   • Increased risk in elderly or those with epilepsy

3. QT Interval Prolongation

   • Risk of arrhythmia

   • Caution with other QT-prolonging drugs

4. Peripheral Neuropathy

   • Numbness, tingling, burning in limbs

   • May be irreversible

5. Photosensitivity

   • Increased risk of sunburn

6. Hepatotoxicity

   • Liver enzyme elevation

   • Rare but possible hepatitis

7. Clostridium difficile-associated Diarrhea

   • Can lead to pseudomembranous colitis

8. Allergic Reactions

   • Rash, urticaria, anaphylaxis (rare)

9. Hypoglycemia/Hyperglycemia

   • Reported in diabetic patients

10. Muscle weakness

    • Especially in patients with myasthenia gravis (Ciprofloxacin is contraindicated)

---

⚠️ Precautions / Contraindications:

• Avoid in children and pregnant women (unless necessary)

• Use cautiously in renal impairment

• Contraindicated in myasthenia gravis

• Avoid excessive sun exposure (due to photosensitivity)

---

🔹 Conclusion:

Ciprofloxacin is a powerful antibiotic used for a wide range of bacterial infections, particularly urinary and respiratory tract infections. However, it should be used with caution due to the risk of tendon damage, CNS effects, and neuropathy. Always take it under medical supervision and complete the full course.

---