Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antimicrobial agent with a broad spectrum of activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.They are relatively non-toxic and well tolerated broad spectrum agents. Their excellent bioavailibilty permits their use for treatment of variety of serious bacterial infections. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the medication at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Ciprofloxacin (HCl) is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the therapy it may result in ineffective treatment.<br> Ciprofloxacin (HCl) is the monohydrated hydrochloride salt of ciprofloxacin. Ciprofloxacin (HCl) is effective against many gram positive and gram negative bacteria, including some strains resistant to penicillins, cyclosporins and aminoglycosides.
Primary Characteristics
Ciprofloxacin is also known as Ciprofloxacin (HCl).
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Quinoline Carboxylic Acid.
It belongs to DNA Gyrase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotics pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 346 · pKa: 6-8.8 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 25 · Solubility in Alcohol: slightly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Ciprofloxacin.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ciprofloxacin has an oral bioavailability is 67% (±17%).
Distribution: Ciprofloxacin has a volume of distribution is 177-217 litre. plasma protein binding is 30%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via 5% via liver, plasma half-life is 3-4 hr, renal excretion is 70% unchanged, 10% metabolites of IV dose.
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Indications
Ciprofloxacin is primarily indicated in conditions like Acromegaly (short-term treatment before pituitary surgery), Chronic prostatitis, GI infections, Gonorrhoea, Iron-deficiency anaemia prophylaxis or for mild iron deficiency, Iron-deficiency anaemia with chronic renal failure, Most other infections, Muscle relaxation (long duration) for surgery and intubation, Muscle relaxation for surgery or intubation, Osteomyelitis, Pseudomonal lower+RTI in cystic fibrosis, Respiratory tract infections, Sexually transmitted disease, Sexually transmitted infections, Skin infections, Skin structure infections, Status epilepticus (unlicensed use), Surgical prophylaxis, Urinary tract infection.
Contraindications
Ciprofloxacin is contraindicated in conditions like Epilepsy, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Ciprofloxacin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 300 mg | 300 mg | Every 12h | IV | As required. Usually for 5-7 days. |
| 0.3 % | 0.3 % | Every 6h | Ophthalmic | |
| 500 mg | 500 mg | Every 12h | PO | As required. Single dose for gonorrhea |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Ciprofloxacin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hearing loss , Seizures , Pseudomembranous colitis .
Ciprofloxacin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anaphylactoid reactions , Stevens Johnson syndrome, Acute Renal Failure , Epidermal necrolysis, Fluminant hepatic failure. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Ciprofloxacin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include agranulocytosis, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Elevation of liver enzymes, Eosinophilia, Headache, Increased intracranial pressure, joint symptoms, Nausea, nervousness, Photosensitivity, Pruritus , Rashes , Tachycardia, Termors, Thrombocytopenia, Urticaria, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Ciprofloxacin may interfere in the diagnosis of Elevations of SGPT and SGOT , Serum creatinin raised, Elevation in ALT or AST, blood urea raised.
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.2.2 — Quinolones
- 2.21.1.1 — Antibacterials
- 3.28 — Otic drugs
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Ciprofloxacin in Pakistan: