Cipro is used to treat a variety of bacteria-based infections. Unlike other medications in this class, this drug focuses on stopping the growth of various bacteria to assist in recovery. It interferes with the enzymes that are necessary for bacteria to replicate their DNA so they cannot reproduce. Due to the nutrition-based ingredients in the drug, there are several dietary restrictions that must be followed when taking it. Your doctor will review these guidelines with you prior to writing the prescription.
Indications
Cipro is usually taken twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, for up to 28 days. Prescriptions are often given in 500 mg tablets. Patients should try to take it at the same time every day to help increase its effectiveness. The drug can be taken without food, but the patient should drink plenty of fluids while on Cipro. Calcium-rich foods decrease the effectiveness of the medication. Patients should avoid eating these products for at least two hours after taking the medication.
Common Side Effects of Cipro
Around 5% of users reported instances of nausea while taking Cipro. In an additional 2% of cases, this included vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. These side effects were generally mild and did not impact the patient's ability to finish their prescription. If you notice these symptoms, consult your doctor to determine safe symptom relief methods.
Around 1% of users reported headache, restlessness, or rash. These side effects could be a sign of an allergic reaction to the medication. If your symptoms are affecting your ability to function then stop taking Cipro. Contact your doctor regarding your symptoms and decide together whether or not you require further assistance.
Uncommon and Rare Side Effects of Cipro
In a few cases, using Cipro has led to tendonitis. This is caused by decreased circulation to the muscles, resulting in deterioration from the lack of nutrients. If you have a history of circulation or heart issues, you will need to discuss the potential risk of using Cipro with your doctor. If you notice tingling in the limbs, difficulty moving, or pain in your muscles contact your doctor immediately for an evaluation.
Other rare Cipro side effects include blurry vision, painful oral mucosa, joint stiffness and pain, urine retention, or heart flutter. These rare symptoms appear in less than 1% of Cipro patients. However, many of them are signs of a very serious health threat such as heart attack or internal bleeding. If you notice any severe symptoms while taking Cipro, stop taking your medication and contact your doctor immediately. If any of your symptoms appear to be life threatening, do not hesitate to contact emergency services right away.
Side Effects in Children, Pregnant Women, and Seniors
Cipro should NOT be given to people under the age of 18. The risk of Cipro side effects is significantly greater than usual. Due to the high dosage, overdosing is common and significantly more likely in children who are still developing.
Pregnant women should discuss the potential risk with their doctor before using a Cipro prescription. Those who are nursing should avoid using Cipro as it can be transferred through the breast milk to their infant.
There are no specific warnings for seniors regarding the use of Cipro. If you are a senior with a history of hypertension, then you will need to speak with your doctor about the potential risk.
Interactions with Other Medications and Substances
Talk to your doctor about which vitamin supplements are appropriate to take while on Cipro. Some vitamins, such as women's formula, will decrease the binding properties of the drug. This is mainly due to the high calcium content of the product. Excessive doses of zinc, magnesium, or iron may also lead to side effects when taken with Cipro. These substances can bind with the medication, making it difficult for your body to absorb the drug as necessary. Caffeinated products should also be avoided. These include beverages such as coffee as well as chocolate. Cipro tends to increase the effects of caffeine and make it difficult for the body to remove caffeine from its system.
A number of drugs including Adivair, Cymbalta, Synthroid, Zanaflex, Lasix, Nexium, and Lyrica should NOT be taken with Cipro. These drug combinations increase the risk for heart trouble or plasma issues. These include changes in blood pressure, extreme drowsiness, or an increase in heart rate. Those with plasma increases reported hypertension, vomiting, tremors, or coma. Aspirin has also been shown to increase the risk of seizures when combined with Cipro.