Ciprofloxacin, or cipro for short, is a prescription antibiotic that fights bacteria and is used to treat bladder infections, gonorrhea, and other bacterial infections. It is not available over the counter (OTC) at any pharmacy.
The FDA does not allow OTC drugs that are as potent as ciprofloxacin because of the risk of side effects. Because of its effects on the body, you must be at least 18 years old to get a prescription for ciprofloxacin.
Keep reading to learn more about this antibiotic and how you can get a prescription for it if needed.
Table of Contents
What is Ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin is a synthetic antibiotic that inhibits the growth of bacteria. It can be used to treat bladder infections, gonorrhea, and other bacterial infections. It is not available over the counter (OTC) at any pharmacy. The FDA does not allow OTC drugs that are as potent as ciprofloxacin because of the risk of side effects.
Ciprofloxacin works by interfering with the bacterial process of replication. Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that can be used to treat many bacterial infections.
Ciprofloxacin can be used to treat urinary tract infections, certain respiratory infections, anthrax, and skin infections. It can also be used to prevent bacterial infection after surgery.
How Does it Work?
Ciprofloxacin works in two ways:
- It interferes with the replication of bacterial DNA, thereby stopping the bacteria from making new bacteria.
- It also interferes with the production of proteins needed by the bacteria to maintain their survival.
Side Effects of Ciprofloxacin
There are many possible side effects of ciprofloxacin. It is important to discuss them with your doctor before taking this antibiotic.
Here are the most common side effects of ciprofloxacin:
- Diarrhea or upset stomach – While diarrhea is not a serious side effect, it can be annoying when it interferes with daily activities like work and exercise. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medication to help ease diarrhea. If the diarrhea does not go away after a few days, contact your doctor.
- Nausea and vomiting – Many people will experience nausea and vomiting when taking ciprofloxacin. You can try taking medications like Pepto Bismol or Zofran to relieve nausea and vomiting. However, you should discuss this option with your doctor first.
- Headaches – Ciprofloxacin can make you more likely to experience headaches. Try taking aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce the headaches.
- Rash – A rash is one of the more serious ciprofloxacin side effects. You should discuss this side effect with your doctor. Rashes can be caused by many different factors, and your doctor can prescribe a treatment that will reduce the rash.
- Joint pain – Joint pain can occur with ciprofloxacin use and can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
When to Use Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic that is used to treat many bacterial infections. It can be used to treat bladder infections, gonorrhea, anthrax, and other bacterial infections. It can also be used to prevent bacterial infections after surgery. If you believe you have a bacterial infection, contact your doctor for advice.
You should take ciprofloxacin as soon as you are diagnosed with a bacterial infection. Waiting too long to begin treatment can allow the bacteria to grow and become resistant to ciprofloxacin. This can make the infection harder to treat.
Ciprofloxacin can be used to prevent bacterial infections after surgery. Your doctor may prescribe ciprofloxacin three days before your surgery to prevent any bacterial infections from occurring.
Warnings with Ciprofloxacin
- Ciprofloxacin can cause allergic reactions. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antibiotic, you should let your doctor know before taking ciprofloxacin. Your doctor may give you a different antibiotic that is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
- Ciprofloxacin may make you more sensitive to sunlight. You should wear sunscreen and avoid spending long periods outdoors when taking ciprofloxacin. You should also wear a hat when possible.
- Ciprofloxacin may increase your risk of blood clots, especially if you smoke or have a history of blood clots. Talk to your doctor about how to prevent blood clots if you take ciprofloxacin.
How to Get a Prescription for Ciprofloxacin
If you believe you have a bacterial infection, contact your doctor. Your doctor will perform a physical examination, ask you about your symptoms, and may order lab tests to confirm the bacterial infection. Your doctor may then prescribe ciprofloxacin. You can only get a prescription for ciprofloxacin if you are at least 18 years old.
Your doctor will decide how many pills you need based on the severity of your infection. Make sure you follow all instructions given by your doctor. This will help you get the best results from ciprofloxacin.
Final Words
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic that can treat many bacterial infections. It is not available over the counter. Ciprofloxacin works by interfering with the bacterial process of replication. It can be used to treat bladder infections, gonorrhea, and other bacterial infections. It can also be used to prevent bacterial infections after surgery.
There are many possible side effects of ciprofloxacin, including nausea, joint pain, and blood clots. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any concerns before taking ciprofloxacin.
If you believe you have a bacterial infection, contact your doctor. Your doctor will perform a physical examination, ask you about your symptoms, and may order lab tests to confirm the bacterial infection. Your doctor may then prescribe ciprofloxacin.
