Ciplox (Ciprofloxacin) is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic designed to combat a wide range of bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes critical for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. This mechanism ensures rapid bactericidal action against both gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens. Trusted by healthcare professionals globally, Ciplox offers reliable efficacy in treating respiratory, urinary, gastrointestinal, and skin infections when susceptibility is confirmed.

Features

• Active ingredient: Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride
• Available in 250 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg oral tablets
• Also formulated as intravenous infusion and ophthalmic/otic solutions
• Broad-spectrum activity against aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
• Rapid absorption with high bioavailability (~70%)
• Peak plasma concentration reached within 1–2 hours post oral administration

Benefits

• Effectively eradicates susceptible bacterial strains, reducing infection duration and severity
• High tissue penetration ensures therapeutic concentrations at infection sites
• Convenient twice-daily dosing supports adherence and consistent therapeutic levels
• Suitable for a variety of infection types, reducing the need for multiple antibiotics
• Well-established safety and efficacy profile backed by decades of clinical use

Common use

Ciplox is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms. Common uses include urinary tract infections (uncomplicated and complicated), acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, lower respiratory tract infections, skin and skin structure infections, bone and joint infections, infectious diarrhea, typhoid fever, and nosocomial pneumonia. It is also used for post-exposure prophylaxis and treatment of anthrax.

Dosage and direction

Dosage must be individualized based on type and severity of infection, renal function, and susceptibility of the causative organism.

Adults:

• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections: 250 mg every 12 hours for 3 days
• Complicated urinary tract infections: 500 mg every 12 hours for 7–14 days
• Lower respiratory tract, skin, and bone/joint infections: 500–750 mg every 12 hours for 7–14 days
• Anthrax (inhalational): 500 mg every 12 hours for 60 days

Renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min): Dosage should be reduced by 50%.

Take tablets with a full glass of water; may be taken with or without food. Avoid dairy products, calcium-fortified juices, or antacids within 2 hours of dosing.

Precautions

• Use only for bacterial infections; not effective against viral infections
• Maintain adequate hydration to prevent crystaluria
• Avoid excessive sunlight or UV light exposure due to photosensitivity risk
• Use with caution in patients with history of seizures, CNS disorders, or renal impairment
• Monitor for signs of tendon inflammation or rupture; discontinue at first sign
• Not recommended during pregnancy or lactation unless potential benefit justifies risk
• May cause dizziness or lightheadedness; caution when driving or operating machinery

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to ciprofloxacin, other quinolones, or any component of the formulation
• Concurrent administration with tizanidine
• History of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, and dizziness. Less frequently, rash, photosensitivity, restlessness, and insomnia may occur. Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include tendon pain/swelling/rupture, peripheral neuropathy, CNS effects (seizures, hallucinations), Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, and hypersensitivity reactions.

Drug interaction

Ciplox may interact with:

• Antacids, sucralfate, iron, zinc, or multivitamins containing minerals: reduced absorption
• Warfarin: increased anticoagulant effect
• Theophylline: increased theophylline levels and toxicity risk
• Cyclosporine: increased nephrotoxicity risk
• NSAIDs: increased CNS stimulation and seizure risk
• Probenecid: decreased renal clearance of ciprofloxacin
• Oral hypoglycemics: potential for altered glucose levels

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up. Resume the regular dosing schedule.

Overdose

Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, or confusion. Management is supportive; ensure adequate hydration. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis removes less than 10% of the dose. Contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C) in a dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and personalized dosage recommendations. Do not self-medicate or share antibiotics with others.

Reviews

“Ciplox has been a go-to antibiotic in our clinic for resistant UTIs. Patients respond well, and the twice-daily dosing is manageable.” – Dr. A. Sharma, MD
“Effective for respiratory infections, though we monitor for GI side effects. Overall, a reliable option when susceptibility is confirmed.” – Clinical Pharmacist, R. Lee
“Used it for a severe skin infection; saw improvement within 48 hours. Completed the course with no recurrence.” – Patient T.G.
“Important to caution patients about sun exposure. Otherwise, well-tolerated in most adults.” – Dermatologist, K. Patel