XIPRO TABLETS (Each tablet contains Ciprofloxacin 500mg )
CIRPOFLOXACIN
What it does
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat various infections caused by bacteria.
Commonly used for: bacterial infections, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, skin infections …
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Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:33:03 · updated 2026-09-25 04:00:14
About this medicine
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat various infections caused by bacteria.
What it treats
- bacterial infections
- urinary tract infections
- respiratory infections
- skin infections
- gastrointestinal infections
How it works
Ciprofloxacin works by stopping the growth of bacteria, helping to eliminate the infection.
Who it's for
Ciprofloxacin is suitable for adults and children over the age of 1 year who have bacterial infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: cirpofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, and repair. This leads to the death of susceptible bacteria. Ciprofloxacin is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and it is commonly used in the treatment of urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and gastrointestinal infections.
Indications
- Urinary tract infections
- Respiratory tract infections
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Bone and joint infections
- Intra-abdominal infections
- Certain types of infectious diarrhea
- Prophylaxis against anthrax
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information based on the type and severity of infection.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information based on the type and severity of infection.
Mechanism of action
Ciprofloxacin exerts its bactericidal effect through the inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. By disrupting these enzymes, ciprofloxacin prevents the supercoiling of DNA necessary for replication and transcription, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death.
Pharmacodynamics
Ciprofloxacin has a concentration-dependent bactericidal action, meaning its effectiveness increases with higher concentrations. Its mechanism of action leads to the disruption of the bacterial cell cycle, inhibiting both DNA synthesis and cell division. It demonstrates activity against a wide range of pathogens, including Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and certain atypical pathogens.
Pharmacokinetics
Ciprofloxacin is well-absorbed after oral administration, with a bioavailability of approximately 70-80%. It is widely distributed throughout the body, including in tissues and fluids, and has a volume of distribution of about 2-3 L/kg. Ciprofloxacin is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, with about 40-50% of the dose excreted unchanged in the urine. The half-life of ciprofloxacin is approximately 3-5 hours in healthy individuals, and dosage adjustments may be necessary in cases of renal impairment.
Contra-indications
- History of hypersensitivity to ciprofloxacin or any other fluoroquinolone
- Concurrent use of tizanidine
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Rash
- Tendon rupture or tendinopathy
- QT interval prolongation
- Peripheral neuropathy
Interactions
- Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum can reduce absorption
- Cations such as iron, zinc, and calcium can interfere with ciprofloxacin absorption
- Warfarin may have increased anticoagulant effect when used with ciprofloxacin
- Ciprofloxacin may enhance the effects of certain drugs that prolong the QT interval
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures
- Renal impairment may require dosage adjustment
- Not recommended for use in pediatric patients except for specific infections
- Monitor for signs of tendon pain or inflammation
Pregnancy
Ciprofloxacin is classified as category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Ciprofloxacin is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised, and use should be avoided unless necessary.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral tablets
- Oral suspension
- Intravenous solution
- Ophthalmic solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.