ciprofloxacin reference
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(ciprofloxacin · DailyMed)
Valid Ghana · FDA Ghana

RENOCIP EYE​ ​DROPS​ (​Each drop contains ​​Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride/Benzalkonium Chloride ​​0.3%w/v​)

Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride/Benzalkonium Chloride

FDA/SD.265-030231 Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride/Benzalkonium Chloride 0.3%w/v dermatologicals INN generic

What it does

Benzalkonium is a disinfectant and antiseptic used to kill germs and prevent infections.

Commonly used for: skin infections, wound cleaning, eye infections, nasal congestion relief

Read more in plain English ↓

Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.

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Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.

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Sourcing - Kenya only

Registration & product details

Registration no.
FDA/SD.265-030231
Registration date
2026-04-01
Expiry date
2031-04-01
Status
Valid
Active ingredient
Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride/Benzalkonium Chloride
Strength
0.3%w/v
Pack size
-
Therapeutic class
-
ATC class (WHO)
D08AJ - Quaternary ammonium compounds
Drug group
DERMATOLOGICALS
RxNorm RxCUI
1378
Manufacturer / MAH
Divine Laboratories
Country of origin
INDIA
Manufacturer location
BLOCK NO.471, DABHASA, TAL. DIST.:, Padra, Gujarat 391440, India

Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-05-22 02:34:35 · updated 2026-10-30 04:00:06

Drug Interactions

41
Check interactions

Severe (2)

Quinolones - decreases absorption

Strontiumispredictedtodecreasetheabsorptionof quinolones.Avoid.oTheoretical

Severe Theoretical

Tizanidine - increases exposure

Ciprofloxacin increases the exposure to tizanidine. Avoid.

Severe Study

Moderate (16)

Aminophylline - increases exposure

Ciprofloxacin is predicted to increase the exposure to aminophylline. Adjust dose.

Moderate Theoretical

Antiepileptics - affects concentration

Ciprofloxacin affects the concentration of antiepileptics (fosphenytoin, phenytoin). Monitor concentration and adjust dose.

Moderate Study

Antipsychotics, Second Generation - increases concentration

Ciprofloxacin increases the concentration of antipsychotics, second generation (clozapine). Monitor adverse effects and adjust dose.

Moderate Study

Antipsychotics, Second Generation - increases exposure

Ciprofloxacin is predicted to increase the exposure to antipsychotics, second generation (olanzapine). Adjust dose.

Moderate Anecdotal

Clozapine - increases concentration

Ciprofloxacin increases the concentration of antipsychotics, second generation (clozapine). Monitor adverse effects and adjust dose.

Moderate Study

Unknown (23)

Agomelatine - increases exposure

Ciprofloxacin is predicted to increase the exposure to agomelatine.

Unknown Study

Anaesthetics,local - increases exposure

Ciprofloxacin is predicted to increase the exposure to anaesthetics, local (ropivacaine).

Unknown Theoretical

Anagrelide - increases exposure

Ciprofloxacinispredictedtoincreasetheexposureto anagrelide.oTheoretical

Unknown Theoretical

Antiarrhythmics - increases exposure

Ciprofloxacin slightly increases the exposure to antiarrhythmics (lidocaine).

Unknown Study

Chlorpromazine - increases exposure

Ciprofloxacin is predicted to increase the exposure to phenothiazines (chlorpromazine).

Unknown Theoretical

Data from BNF 85 (British National Formulary). This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Matched via: class

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from Food and Drugs Authority (Ghana). Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication.

About benzalkonium

Benzalkonium is a disinfectant and antiseptic used to kill germs and prevent infections.

What it treats

  • skin infections
  • wound cleaning
  • eye infections
  • nasal congestion relief

How it works

Benzalkonium works by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria and viruses, effectively killing them.

Who it's for

It is suitable for adults and children needing antiseptic treatment or disinfection.

Cautions

  • • Avoid contact with eyes and sensitive skin.
  • • Do not use on deep wounds or serious burns.

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

About ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.

What it treats

  • bacterial infections of the lungs (pneumonia)
  • urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • skin infections
  • gastrointestinal infections

How it works

It works by stopping the growth of bacteria in the body.

Who it's for

Ciprofloxacin is for adults and children who need treatment for bacterial infections.

Drug class

Quinolones

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

Clinical monograph: Ciprofloxacin

BNF-referenced

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class, effective against a wide range of both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. It works primarily by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes crucial for DNA replication and transcription. This inhibition leads to the death of susceptible bacteria, making ciprofloxacin a valuable option in treating various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and skin infections.

Indications

  • Bacterial infections
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Respiratory tract infections
  • Skin and soft tissue infections
  • Acute pyelonephritis
  • Severe diabetic foot infections
  • Anthrax (treatment and post-exposure prophylaxis)
  • Disseminated gonococcal infection (unlicensed)

Mechanism of action

Ciprofloxacin acts on bacterial topoisomerase II (DNA gyrase) and topoisomerase IV. It binds to the alpha subunits of DNA gyrase, preventing the supercoiling of bacterial DNA, which is essential for DNA replication. This inhibition leads to bacterial cell death. Ciprofloxacin exhibits bactericidal activity during both logarithmic and stationary growth phases, particularly against organisms like Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Pharmacodynamics

Ciprofloxacin is characterized by its potent activity against many Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria, achieved through its mechanism of action on DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. It binds with significantly higher affinity to bacterial DNA gyrase compared to mammalian enzymes, thus minimizing potential side effects. There is no cross-resistance between ciprofloxacin and other antibiotic classes, which enhances its use in cases of antibiotic resistance. Additionally, ciprofloxacin is under investigation for potential effects against malaria, cancers, and AIDS.

Pharmacokinetics

Ciprofloxacin is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with bioavailability around 70-80%. It is widely distributed in body tissues and fluids, including the lungs, liver, kidneys, and prostate. The drug undergoes hepatic metabolism and is primarily excreted via the kidneys, with a half-life of about 4 hours. Dosing adjustments may be necessary in renal impairment. Ciprofloxacin's pharmacokinetic profile supports its efficacy in treating systemic infections.

Contra-indications

  • Hypersensitivity to ciprofloxacin or other quinolones
  • Concurrent use with tizanidine

Adverse effects

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Tendon rupture
  • QT interval prolongation
  • Photosensitivity
  • Rash
  • Superinfection

Interactions

  • Severe: ciprofloxacin + tizanidine (increases exposure)
  • Moderate: ciprofloxacin + aminophylline (increases exposure)
  • Moderate: ciprofloxacin + antiepileptics (affects concentration)
  • Moderate: ciprofloxacin + fosphenytoin (affects concentration)
  • Moderate: ciprofloxacin + phenytoin (affects concentration)
  • Moderate: ciprofloxacin + antipsychotics (increases concentration)
  • Moderate: ciprofloxacin + clozapine (increases concentration)
  • Moderate: ciprofloxacin + olanzapine (increases exposure)
  • Moderate: ciprofloxacin + dopaminereceptor agonists (increases exposure)

Precautions

  • Risk of arthropathy in children
  • History of tendon disorders
  • Concurrent use of drugs that prolong the QT interval
  • Ensure adequate hydration to prevent crystalluria
  • Monitor for signs of superinfection

Pregnancy

Avoid in pregnancy due to potential risk of arthropathy in animal studies; safer alternatives should be considered.

Breast-feeding

Ciprofloxacin is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administered to nursing mothers.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Protect from light.

Formulations

  • Oral tablet: 250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg
  • Intravenous infusion: 400 mg/200 mL
  • Eye drops: concentration may vary
BNF 85 (British National Formulary) p.636 BNF 85 (British National Formulary) p.1306 BNF 85 (British National Formulary) p.1332 BNF for Children 2019-2020 p.383 BNF for Children 2019-2020 p.722 BNF for Children 2019-2020 p.736 PubChem / pathway

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Clinical monograph: Benzalkoniumchloride

BNF-referenced

Benzalkonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound used primarily as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It is effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it suitable for various topical applications.

Indications

  • Seborrhoeic dermatitis
  • Dandruff
  • Scalp psoriasis
  • Bacterial infections affecting the scalp

Dosage

Children: For children, apply 3 times a week for 1 week, then apply twice weekly as needed. Refer to BNF for Children for further details.

Adults: Apply to the affected area as directed, typically 1-3 times weekly depending on the condition being treated. Refer to specific product guidelines for detailed dosing.

Mechanism of action

Benzalkonium chloride exerts its antimicrobial effect by disrupting the cell membrane of microorganisms, leading to leakage of cellular contents and ultimately cell death. This is facilitated by its cationic nature, which allows it to bind to negatively charged bacterial surfaces.

Pharmacodynamics

Benzalkonium chloride demonstrates rapid bactericidal activity, with effectiveness observed against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Its antiseptic properties may be enhanced in the presence of moisture and are typically influenced by the concentration of the solution used.

Pharmacokinetics

Benzalkonium chloride is poorly absorbed through the skin. After topical application, it remains primarily at the site of application, where it exerts localized effects. Systemic absorption is minimal, and it is primarily eliminated through the skin and urine. However, specific pharmacokinetic data may vary based on formulation and application site.

Pregnancy

Benzalkonium chloride should be used with caution during pregnancy. Refer to specific guidelines or consult a healthcare professional.

Breast-feeding

Benzalkonium chloride should be used with caution while breastfeeding. Refer to specific guidelines or consult a healthcare professional.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

  • Shampoo
  • Soap or detergent
  • Topical solution
BNF for Children 2019-2020 p.805 PubChem / pathway

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Clinical monograph: benzalkonium

BNF-referenced

Benzalkonium chloride is a cationic surfactant and biocidal agent used for its antimicrobial properties. It is commonly utilized as a disinfectant, antiseptic, and preservative in various pharmaceutical and healthcare applications. Its bactericidal action is primarily attributed to its ability to disrupt cellular membranes of microorganisms, leading to loss of cellular integrity and function.

Indications

  • Disinfection of surfaces
  • Antiseptic for skin
  • Preservative in pharmaceuticals
  • Treatment of minor cuts and abrasions

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing recommendations in pediatric populations.

Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific formulations and concentrations as doses may vary based on the application and preparation.

Mechanism of action

The bactericidal action of benzalkonium chloride is believed to result from the disruption of intermolecular interactions, which leads to the dissociation of cellular membrane lipid bilayers in bacteria. This disruption compromises cellular permeability, causing leakage of vital cellular contents. Moreover, the agent can deactivate important molecular complexes such as enzymes that regulate various respiratory and metabolic activities within the cells. Cationic surfactants like benzalkonium chloride can thus effectively disrupt critical intermolecular interactions and tertiary structures in biochemical systems, impairing bacterial function.

Pharmacodynamics

Benzalkonium chloride is classified as a biocidal agent with a relatively long duration of action. It exhibits a spectrum of activity against various microorganisms, including bacteria, certain viruses, fungi, and protozoa; however, it is ineffective against bacterial spores. The agent tends to demonstrate greater efficacy against gram-positive bacteria compared to gram-negative ones. The mode of action can be bacteriostatic (preventing growth) or bactericidal (killing bacteria), depending on its concentration. The activity of benzalkonium chloride is generally stable across different pH levels but is enhanced at elevated temperatures and with extended exposure.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetic properties of benzalkonium chloride, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, are not fully characterized. Its topical application limits systemic exposure, and it primarily exerts localized effects at the site of application. The duration of action and efficacy may be influenced by the formulation and concentration used.

Pregnancy

Benzalkonium chloride is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when applied topically, but systemic absorption should be minimized. Always consult a healthcare provider for use during pregnancy.

Breast-feeding

Benzalkonium chloride is considered safe for topical application during breastfeeding, but care should be taken to avoid exposure to the infant. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep in a tightly closed container, protected from light.

Formulations

  • Topical solution
  • Disinfectant wipes
  • Liquid antiseptics

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Molecular reference: benzalkonium

PubChem CID 2330

Molecular formula: C22H40N+

Mechanism of action

Although not entirely elucidated, the bactericidal action of benzalkonium chloride is believed to be due to the disruption of intermolecular interactions. Such disruption can cause the dissociation of cellular membrane lipid bilayers of bacteria, resulting in compromised cellular permeability control and the leakage of important cellular contents. Additionally, other important molecular complexes like enzymes which control the maintenance of a great range of respiratory and metabolic cellular activities, are also susceptible to such deactivation. Consequently, a variety of critical intermolecular interactions and tertiary structures in very highly specific biochemical systems that allow bacterial agents to function normally can be readily disrupted or deactivated by cationic surfactants like benzalkonium chloride..

Pharmacodynamics

Benzalkonium chloride solutions are generally categorized as biocidal agents with relative long durations of action. Their spectrum of activity has been demonstrated against bacteria, to some viruses, fungi, and protozoa, although bacterial spores are treated as being resistant to the agent. Additionally, the agent generally shows more activity against gram-positive than gram-negative bacteria. Finally, solutions of benzalkonium chloride are bacteriostatic or bactericidal based on their concentration. Bacteriostatic agents act to prevent further growth of bacterial organisms that are present while bactericidal agents function to kill bacteria that are present. In general, the activity of the agent is not largely affected by pH, but such activity does increase substantially at higher temperatures and prolonged exposure times.

Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.

Molecular reference: Ciprofloxacin

PubChem CID 2764

Molecular formula: C17H18FN3O3

Mechanism of action

Ciprofloxacin acts on bacterial topoisomerase II (DNA gyrase) and topoisomerase IV. Ciprofloxacin's targeting of the alpha subunits of DNA gyrase prevents it from supercoiling the bacterial DNA which prevents DNA replication. The mechanism by which ciprofloxacin's inhibition of DNA gyrase or topoisomerase IV results in death in susceptible organisms has not been fully determined. Unlike beta-lactam anti-infectives, which are most active against susceptible bacteria when they are in the logarithmic phase of growth, studies using Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa indicate that ciprofloxacin can be bactericidal during both logarithmic and stationary phases of growth; this effect does not appear to occur with gram-positive bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus). In vitro studies indicate that ciprofloxacin concentrations that approximate the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the drug induce filamentation in susceptible organisms; high concentrations of the drug result in enlarged or elongated cells that may not be extensively filamented. Although the bactericidal effect of some fluoroquinolones (e.g., norfloxacin) evidently requires competent RNA and protein synthesis in the bacterial cell, and concurrent use of anti-infectives that affect protein synthesis (e.g., chloramphenicol, tetracyclines) or RNA synthesis (e.g., rifampin) inhibit the in vitro bactericidal activity of these drugs, the bactericidal effect of ciprofloxacin is only partially reduced in the presence of these anti-infectives. This suggests that ciprofloxacin has an additional mechanism of action that is independent of RNA and protein synthesis. Ciprofloxacin usually is bactericidal in action. Like other fluoroquinolone anti-infectives, ciprofloxacin inhibits DNA synthesis in susceptible organisms via inhibition of the enzymatic activities of 2 members of the DNA topoisomerase class of enzymes, DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV have distinct essential roles in bacterial DNA replication. DNA gyrase, a type II DNA topoisomerase, was the first identified quinolone target; DNA gyrase is a tetramer composed of 2 GyrA and 2 GyrB subunits. DNA gyrase introduces negative superhelical twists in DNA, an activity important for initiation of DNA replication. DNA gyrase also facilitates DNA replication by removing positive super helical twists. Topoisomerase IV, another type II DNA topoisomerase, is composed of 2 ParC and 2 ParE subunits. DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV are structurally related; ParC is homologous to GyrA and ParE is homologous to GyrB. Topoisomerase IV acts at the terminal states of DNA replication by allowing for separation of interlinked daughter chromosomes so that segregation into daughter cells can occur. Fluoroquinolones inhibit these topoisomerase enzymes by stabilizing either the DNA-DNA gyrase complex or the DNA-topoismerase IV complex; these stabilized complexes block movement of the DNA replication fork and thereby inhibit DNA replication resulting in cell death. ... Ciprofloxacin is cytotoxic to a variety of cultured mammalian cell lines at concn that deplete cells of mtDNA. The IC50 values for ciprofloxacin varied from 40-80 ug/ml depending on the cell line tested. Cytotoxicity required continuous exposure of cells to drug for 2-4 days, which corresponded to approx three or four cell doublings. Shorter times of drug exposure did not cause significant cytotoxicity. In addition, cells became drug resistant when they were grown under conditions that bypassed the need for mitochondrial respiration. Resistance was not due to a decr in cellular drug accumulation, ... /indicating/ that ciprofloxacin cytotoxicity is caused by the loss of mtDNA encoded functions. Analysis of mtDNA from ciprofloxacin treated cells revealed the presence of site specific, double stranded DNA breaks. ... Exonuclease protection studies indicated that the 5'-, but not the 3', ends of the drug induced DNA breaks were tightly assoc

Pharmacodynamics

Ciprofloxacin is a second generation fluoroquinolone that is active against many Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria. It produces its action through inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. Ciprofloxacin binds to bacterial DNA gyrase with 100 times the affinity of mammalian DNA gyrase. There is no cross resistance between fluoroquinolones and other classes of antibiotics, so it may be of clinical value when other antibiotics are no longer effective. Ciprofloxain and its derivatives are also being investigated for its action against malaria, cancers, and AIDS.

Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.

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