Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic. It belongs to a group of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by killing the bacteria that causes an infection.
Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic which means that it's 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
It is also used to help prevent people getting meningitis if they have been in close contact with someone with the infection.
Ciprofloxacin is only available on prescription.
It comes as tablets, a liquid that you drink, ear drops and eye drops. It's also given by injection, but this is usually done in hospital.
Ciprofloxacin ear drops also come mixed with other medicines, such as fluocinolone, known as Cetraxal Plus, or dexamethasone.
Ciprofloxacin tablets and liquid are only used when no other antibiotics are suitable, because there's a risk of serious and long-term side effects.
Key facts
- The most common side effects of ciprofloxacin tablets and liquid are feeling sick (nausea) and diarrhoea.
- Avoid taking the tablets or liquid together with dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt or products with added calcium. They stop ciprofloxacin entering the body from the stomach.
- Ciprofloxacin may make you feel tired or less alert, or cause temporary stinging or burning in your eyes. Do not drive, cycle or operate heavy machinery until you feel better.
- Very rarely ciprofloxacin can cause serious mental health side effects. If you feel that ciprofloxacin is affecting your mood or behaviour, contact your doctor immediately.
- Ciprofloxacin works straight away and, depending on your type of infection, you should start to see your symptoms improve within about 2 to 3 days. Talk to your doctor if it takes longer for your symptoms to get better.