The Wellness Collective

What to Know About Ciprofloxacin

Mariah Powers
February 13, 2026

Reviewed by Ashley Robinson, PharmD, Pharmacy Manager for TelyRx

Ciprofloxacin is a prescription-only antimicrobial agent that belongs to the fluoroquinolone antibiotic drug class. Also known by the brand name Cipro, the medication is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections.

Treatment and dosage vary by the patient’s history and severity of symptoms, but courses can last anywhere from three days to multiple weeks. Most patients tolerate Cipro well, but side effects can occur and it is recommended to monitor how your body responds to treatment throughout the course.

How Does Ciprofloxacin Work?

Ciprofloxacin works by preventing bacteria from multiplying. Two essential bacterial enzymes, DNA gyrase and topoisomerase, promote the growth and replication of bacterial DNA. Cipro targets both of these enzymes to prevent the bacterial DNA from being read, copied, and multiplied into two newly-replicated DNA cells.

By blocking both of these enzymes, Cipro renders the bacteria unable to self-repair or produce new copies, and this eventually leads to the bacteria’s death. Once the bacteria has died, the immune system can flush out the remaining infection more efficiently.

Drug Facts

Common Brands	Cipro, Cipro XR, Proquin XR
Drug Class	Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic
Generic Status	Generic version of Cipro
Availability	Prescription Only

Dosing

Note: Dosing information below is educational only. Your prescribing physician will determine your specific dose based on your individual health needs.

Ciprofloxacin dosage depends on the severity of infection symptoms, site of the infection, and the patient’s medical history – specifically, their kidney function. Standard guidelines for ciprofloxacin dosage include the following:

Standard Tablets: Standard doses of ciprofloxacin involve a tablet of 250 milligrams (mg) to 500 mg usually taken every 12 hours.
Extended-Release Tablets: Some ciprofloxacin tablets contain a higher dose and are designed to release the medication more slowly. Patients typically take extended-release Cipro tablets once per day.
Duration of Course: Depending on the condition being treated, a ciprofloxacin treatment course may last anywhere from three days to several weeks.
Administration: Standard guidelines suggest taking the ciprofloxacin tablet with a glass of water. You can take the medication on an empty stomach, but accompanying your dose with a meal can help prevent an upset stomach.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for exact dosing.

FDA-Approved Uses

Ciprofloxacin is FDA-approved to treat the following medical conditions:

Urinary tract infections, including complicated infections and kidney infections (pyelonephritis)
Prostate infection (chronic bacterial prostasis)
Lower respiratory infections, including some types of pneumonia and bronchitis
Skin and skin structure infections caused by susceptible bacteria strains
Osteomyelitis and other bone and joint infections
Abdominal infections (when used in combination with other medications)
Infectious diarrhea caused by pathogens like E. coli or Campylobacter
Typhoid fever caused by Salmonella typhi
Anthrax and plague

Common Off-Label Uses

You may see Ciprofloxacin prescribed for uses that are not “FDA-approved.” This is a very common and legal practice called “off-label” prescribing, where a doctor uses their clinical judgment to prescribe a drug for a different (but well-researched) purpose.

Common off-label uses for ciprofloxacin currently used in clinical practice and research include the following:

Traveler’s Diarrhea: Providers may prescribe ciprofloxacin as a diarrhea prophylaxis for people traveling to areas with poor sanitation – though this measure is not recommended for everyone.
Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Cipro may be prescribed to treat certain bacterial STIs when other treatments have not been effective or the provider suspects the strain is resistant. Due to prevalent resistance in many regions, Cipro is no longer considered a first-line treatment for gonorrhea.
Cat Scratch Disease: Cipro can be used to manage Bartonella infections that cause this condition, which is also colloquially known as cat scratch fever.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

Ciprofloxacin is generally well-tolerated, but side effects can occur throughout a ciprofloxacin treatment course. The most common side effects include:

Nausea, vomiting, and mild diarrhea
Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, and other nervous system effects
Mild rash or itching

Additionally, oral thrush and vaginal yeast infections can occur because Cipro is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that can eliminate “good” bacteria and enable fungal growth to occur.

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects are rare, but it’s important to know what to look for if they do occur.

Serious side effects of taking ciprofloxacin can include:

Tendon Rupture and Tendinitis: Cipofloxacin can increase the risk of inflammation and tearing in the tendons, particularly the Achilles tendon. This risk is even higher for people over 60, those who take corticosteroids, and people who have undergone an organ transplant.
Peripheral Neuropathy: Some people who take Cipro experience nerve damage. Symptoms include tingling, burning, and numbness in the extremities.
Central Nervous System Effects: Though rare, patients who take Cipro may experience seizures, hallucinations, anxiety, or severe confusion.
C. Difficile-Associated Diarrhea: Ciprofloxacin – like many antibiotics – can promote overgrowth of C. diff bacteria in the colon that leads to severe, watery, or bloody diarrhea.
Cardiac Issues: Cipro may cause QT prolongation, a heart rhythm disorder that can lead to fainting or heart palpitations.
Aortic Aneurysm: While rare, studies suggest ciprofloxacin may increase the risk of tears or ruptures in the aorta, or large artery.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any concerning or prolonged symptoms.

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Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as traveler’s diarrhea and urinary tract infection (UTI).

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Ciprofloxacin is a prescription antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone class used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) and traveler’s diarrhea.

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Pharmacist Tips

Avoid Dairy at Dose Time: It is not recommended to take ciprofloxacin with only dairy products or calcium-fortified beverages. Dairy can bind to the medication and prevent it from being effective. Consuming dairy as part of larger meals throughout the day shouldn’t cause problems.
Time Your Supplements Accordingly: If you take multivitamins, antacids, or supplements with iron, magnesium, or zinc, it is recommended to wait until six hours before or two hours after your ciprofloxacin dose.
Stay Hydrated: It is advised to drink fluid throughout the day while taking ciprofloxacin. This helps prevent crystals from forming in the urine.
Take Precautions in the Sun: Cipro can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so be sure to wear sunscreen and protective clothing if you plan to be outside on a clear day while taking the medication.
Finish the Course: Even if you notice your symptoms tapering off before the treatment is complete, it is advised to finish the entire course of medication.

Drug Interactions

Numerous interactions between ciprofloxacin and other drugs have been observed. These interactions may decrease the effectiveness of the antibiotic, or exacerbate the side effects of the other medication. Known ciprofloxacin interactions include:

Tizanidine: Ciprofloxacin interacts with tizanidine, a muscle relaxant sold under the brand name Zanaflex. These two drugs should not be taken together because it can cause a dangerous increase of tizanidine levels in the blood.
Theophylline: Taking Cipro can cause levels of this asthma medication to build up, sometimes to toxic levels.
Warfarin: Ciprofloxacin can enhance the effects of warfarin, a blood thinner sold under the name Coumadin, and increase the risk of bleeding.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can elevate a patient’s risk of central nervous system stimulation and seizures.
Diabetes Medications: Ciprofloxacin can affect blood sugar levels, especially when taken alongside oral diabetes medication like glyburide or glipizide.

Always give your doctor and pharmacist a complete list of all your medications, vitamins, and supplements to check for potential interactions.

FAQs

What types of infections does ciprofloxacin treat?

Ciprofioxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that can be used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. These include ciprofloxacin urinary tract infection (UTI), bone and joint infections, infectious diarrhea, respiratory infections, and prostate inflammation. Cipro cannot treat viral infections.

Why is there a “black box warning” on ciprofloxacin?

The “black box warning” lists potential serious side effects of taking ciprofloxacin, including tendon rupture and neuropathy. This label is meant to ensure consumers know their risk of side effects, and that the medication is used only when benefits outweigh the risks.

Does ciprofloxacin cause sun sensitivity?

Yes, ciprofloxacin can cause sun sensitivity and make you more susceptible to severe sunburn. Standard guidelines for protecting yourself while taking Cipro include avoiding prolonged sun exposure and using high-SPF sunscreen.

How long does ciprofloxacin stay in your system?

For people with normal kidney function, ciprofloxacin stays in the body for roughly four to six hours. It typically takes 24 to 30 hours for the medication to be cleared from the body after the final dose.

Is ciprofloxacin safe to take during pregnancy?

Providers generally avoid prescribing ciprofloxacin for pregnant patients unless there is not a safer alternative. Studies indicate taking ciprofloxacin while pregnant can potentially increase risks to fetal bone and joint development.

Is ciprofloxacin used for traveler’s diarrhea?

Yes, using ciprofloxacin to treat traveler’s diarrhea is one of the medication’s most common off-label uses. Healthcare providers typically reserve Cipro for people traveling to locations with known severe cases or specific pathogens.

What to avoid when taking ciprofloxacin?

It is recommended to avoid taking ciprofloxacin at the same time as dairy, antacids, and mineral supplements. Limiting caffeine intake can also help you cut down on “jitters,” and minimizing strenuous exercise can lower the risk of tendon rupture or tendonitis.

Compare Medications

Compared: Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Nitrofurantoin, Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim, Cephalexin, or Azithromycin?

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is frequently prescribed, but not the only option available. Some common ciprofloxacin alternatives include:

Levofloxacin: Levofloxacin, like ciprofloxacin, is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, but it provides better coverage for the bacteria that cause common, community-acquired pneumonia. Most levofloxacin courses include one tablet taken daily.
Nitrofurantoin: Nitrofurantoin is used exclusively to treat lower urinary tract infections (UTIs). It does not reach the same concentration levels in the blood as ciprofloxacin, so it can’t be used to treat systemic or kidney infections. It is often preferred for simple UTIs.
Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim: Also known as Bactrim, this drug is a sulfa-based antibiotic often used to treat UTIs and skin infections. Ciprofloxacin may be used if the patient has a sulfa allergy, or if their infection is resistant to Bactrim.
Cephalexin: This drug, Keflex for short, is a cephalosporin antibiotic primarily used to treat skin infections and simple UTIs. Ciprofloxacin’s broad-spectrum coverage includes infections from Gram-negative bacteria, which Keflex may not be strong enough to treat.
Azithromycin: Azithromycin is a macrolide medication primarily used to treat strep throat, sinus infections, and other upper respiratory infections. It works by stopping bacterial protein synthesis, while Cipro prevents bacterial DNA replication. As such, both drugs treat different forms of bacterial infection.

Disclaimer

Important: Information on this page is for educational purposes only. Prescribing decisions are made by independent, licensed providers. TelyRx operates technology-enabled pharmacies and a telehealth platform that connects patients with board-certified licensed providers. Prescriptions, when provider-approved and issued, are filled and shipped by TelyRx-affiliated pharmacies. We do not employ physicians or make prescribing decisions. Learn more about our editorial standards here.

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