Ciprofloxacin
What is ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic treatment. It belongs to a group of medicines called fluoroquinolones, which are used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections[4].
Ciprofloxacin works by stopping the growth and spread of bacteria. Ciprofloxacin does not work against viruses – so it should not be used to treat illnesses such as the common cold or flu[4].
What is ciprofloxacin used for?
Doctors or pharmacists may prescribe ciprofloxacin to treat a range of conditions, including[4]:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Bladder and prostate infections
Lung infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia
Sinus infections
Skin, bone, and joint infections
Abdominal infections
Certain types of gonorrhoea
Anthrax exposure
infections that other antibiotics have been unable to treat
How does ciprofloxacin work?
Ciprofloxacin works by works by killing the bacteria that causes an infection[4].
Who can take ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin is generally suitable for most adults when prescribed[4]. It can be used in children, but usually only for serious infections. Some older adults may be at higher risk of certain side effects, such as tendon damage, and ciprofloxacin is not usually recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary.
Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have before starting fluoxetine, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[5].
What is the typical dosage of ciprofloxacin?
The typical dose of ciprofloxacin depends on the type and severity of the infection. Ciprofloxacin is available in several forms, including tablets of 250mg, 500mg, or 750mg[4]. It may also be available as oral suspension and in IV form in hospitals.
How do you take ciprofloxacin?
The usual adult dose of ciprofloxacin ranges from 250mg to 750mg. It’s usually taken twice daily. You can typically take ciprofloxacin with or without food, and you should drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine[4].
It’s advised to avoid taking it with dairy products (such as milk or yogurt) or calcium-fortified juices[4]. These can interfere with how the medicine is absorbed. You should also not take it within 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking antacids, iron, zinc, or other supplements that contain metal ions. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.
Can you stop taking ciprofloxacin early?
No, even if you start feeling better, it’s important to finish the full course of ciprofloxacin[4]. Stopping early can allow the infection to come back and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
What should you do if you take too much ciprofloxacin?
Taking too much ciprofloxacin can be dangerous[4]. Signs of having taken an overdose may include dizziness, confusion, nausea, and seizures. You should seek immediate medical attention if this happens.
What should you do if you forget a dose of ciprofloxacin?
If you miss a dose of ciprofloxacin, do not take two doses to make up for the missed one[4]. Instead, take it as soon as you remember, or, if it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose altogether and continue with your next dose at the usual time.
Which medicines should you avoid while taking ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin can interact with several other medications and cause a range of side effects. You should avoid or be cautious taking ciprofloxacin if you are also taking[4]:
Antacids containing magnesium or aluminium
Iron or zinc supplements
Certain heart rhythm medicines
NSAIDs (like ibuprofen)
Theophylline
Blood thinners (e.g. warfarin)
Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[5].
What are the side effects of ciprofloxacin?
The most common side effects of ciprofloxacin include nausea, diarrhoea, dizziness, and headaches. More serious side effects of ciprofloxacin include[4]:
Muscle weakness, pain or swelling in your joints or tendons. Nerve problems, such as tingling or numbness
Mood changes, confusion, or hallucinations
Seizures
Severe allergic reactions, including swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing
If you experience any serious symptoms, stop taking ciprofloxacin and contact a doctor immediately.
If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice.
The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[5].
Frequently asked questions about ciprofloxacin
Can I drink alcohol while taking ciprofloxacin?
Drinking small amounts of alcohol while taking ciprofloxacin is unlikely to cause a problem[4]. It’s important to consider that doing so may increase the chance of side effects like dizziness or upset stomach it is therefore recommended to avoid drinking alcohol during your treatment.
Does ciprofloxacin make you more sensitive to the sun?
Yes, ciprofloxacin can make you more sensitive to sunlight[4]. You should avoid direct sunlight or tanning beds while taking it. You should also use sunscreen and wear protective clothing if you go outdoors while taking it.
Can I drive or operate machinery while taking ciprofloxacin?
If your course of ciprofloxacin is making you feel dizzy or lightheaded, do not drive or use machinery[4].
Can I take probiotics while on ciprofloxacin?
Yes, you can take probiotics while on ciprofloxacin[4]. You should take them a few hours apart from your antibiotic, though, as taking them together may reduce their effectiveness.
For the official NHS guide to ciprofloxacin, visit their website.
Medicines A-Z Directory Disclaimer
The information provided on this Medicines A-Z page is intended for general informational purposes only and was accurate as of June 2025. It is designed to offer simple, patient-friendly summaries of prescribed medications based on publicly available resources, including those from the National Health Service (NHS). This content does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a substitute for professional guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist.
Patients should always consult their healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any prescribed medication, and must inform them of any known allergies, medical conditions, or other medications being taken to ensure safe use. The inclusion of a medication on this page does not guarantee its availability, suitability, or approval for use in all cases, as prescribing decisions are made by healthcare professionals based on individual patient needs.
This page may include links to external websites, such as those maintained by the NHS or the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), for further information. These links are provided for convenience only and do not imply endorsement. The pharmacy is not responsible for the content, accuracy, or availability of external websites, nor for any consequences arising from their use.
Medical and regulatory information may change over time due to new research, updated guidelines, or changes in licensing by the MHRA. While the pharmacy endeavours to keep this information accurate, it cannot guarantee its currency at all times. Patients are advised to verify information with a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date advice.
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