Sign inBefore taking ciprofloxacin
Before taking ciprofloxacin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you are under 18 years of age.
- If you suffer from liver or kidney problems (other than a kidney infection).
- If you have diabetes.
- If you have a history of tendon problems such as tendinitis.
- If you suffer with epilepsy or any other condition that causes convulsions (fits).
- If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (muscle weakening disease).
- If you have glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency or if you have a family history of this condition.
- If you are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen or diclofenac.
- If you are taking corticosteroids.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking antibiotics.
How to take ciprofloxacin
- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Take ciprofloxacin at regularly spaced intervals. You must complete the course of ciprofloxacin otherwise your infection may come back and be more difficult to treat.
- Ciprofloxacin tablets must be swallowed whole (do not chew) with a full glass of water. Make a point of drinking more water during treatment.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Ciprofloxacin can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
- Alcohol will increase any feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
- Do not take indigestion remedies or any medicines containing iron or zinc at the same time of day as this medicine. Take any such remedies at least two hours before or two hours after a dose of ciprofloxacin.
- Ciprofloxacin may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Avoid strong sunlight and sun beds and use a sun protection cream higher than factor 15.
Can ciprofloxacin cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Feeling or being sick | Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. |
| Diarrhoea | Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. If diarrhoea is severe or there is blood in it stop taking ciprofloxacin and contact your doctor as soon as possible. |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. |
| Dizziness, drowsiness | Do not drive, operate machinery or carry out any other jobs that could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. |
| Indigestion | Try taking ciprofloxacin with food (not dairy products). Antacids should not be taken within 2 hours of a dose of ciprofloxacin. |
Other side effects include an itchy rash, shaking, hot flushes, excessive sweating, disturbed sleep, loss of appetite, restlessness, feeling depressed, confusion, pins and needles, visual problems.
Important: If you experience pain or inflammation in your joints, particularly hips, knees or ankles, stop taking ciprofloxacin, rest the limb and seek medical advice immediately.
Important: If you experience swelling of the lips or tongue or convulsions (fits) stop taking ciprofloxacin and contact your doctor as soon as possible.
If you experience any other side effects which you think may be due to this medicine speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store ciprofloxacin
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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