Opinion - Der Pharmacia Lettre ( 2023) Volume 15, Issue 1
Received: 02-Jan-2023, Manuscript No. DPL-23-92850; Editor assigned: 06-Jan-2023, Pre QC No. DPL-23-92850(PQ); Reviewed: 20-Jan-2023, QC No. DPL-23-92850; Revised: 27-Jan-2023, Manuscript No. DPL-23-92850(R); Published: 03-Feb-2023 , DOI: 10.37532/dpl.2023.15.13
Ciprofloxacin is a type of antibiotic. It belongs to the quinolone antibiotic class of drugs. This antibiotic is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It kills the bacteria that cause an infection. This antibiotic only treats bacterial infections. It will not help with virus infections (such as common cold, flu). When an antibiotic is used when it is not required, it may become ineffective against future infections. It is used to treat a number of bacterial infections, such as: Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) where other antibiotics are not suitable and complicated UTIs, chest infections (including pneumonia), skin and bone infections, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), conjunctivitis, eye infections, ear infections, infections that other antibiotics have been unable to treat.
Ciprofloxacin may cause tendon swelling or tearing, particularly in the Achilles' tendon of the heel. This can happen during treatment or after stopping ciprofloxacin for several months. Tendon problems may be more common in children and the elderly, as well as those who take steroids or have had an organ transplant. It has the potential to cause serious side effects such as tendon problems, nerve damage, severe mood or behaviour changes, or low blood sugar. Ciprofloxacin should be discontinued if ever experience symptoms such as headache, hunger, irritability, numbness, tingling, burning pain, confusion, agitation, paranoia, memory or concentration problems, suicidal thoughts, or sudden pain or movement problems in any of the joints. Ciprofloxacin may cause aortic damage in rare cases, leading to dangerous bleeding or death. If symptoms such as severe and constant pain in the chest, stomach, or back persist, it is best to seek emergency medical attention. It is not advised to use this medication while suffering with a muscle disorder.
To ensure that ciprofloxacin is safe to use, inform the doctor if any of the following symptoms have ever been experienced: Diabetes, low blood sugar; nerve problems; an aneurysm or blood circulation problems; heart problems or a heart attack; muscle weakness, myasthenia gravis; liver or kidney disease; a seizure, head injury, or brain tumour; difficulty swallowing pills; Long QT syndrome (LQTS); or low potassium levels in blood (hypokalemia). Ciprofloxacin must be taken for the entire duration of the prescription, even if the symptoms improve quickly. Skipping doses increases the risk of a medication-resistant infection. Ciprofloxacin should not be taken with dairy products such as milk or yoghurt, or with calcium-fortified juice. While eating or drinking these products with meals is recommended, do not use them alone while taking this medication.
Ciprofloxacin may make sunburn more likely. When going outside, avoid direct sunlight or tanning beds, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Avoid driving or engaging in risky activities until the effects of ciprofloxacin on the body are known. The reactions may be hampered. Ciprofloxacin use causes musculoskeletal adverse effects. These musculoskeletal events, however, can be reversed with proper management. It is suggested that more prospective controlled studies be conducted to assess the safety of ciprofloxacin, with a particular focus on the risk of arthropathy.