Why are Cipro and Cipro HC prescribed?
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat infections of the lower respiratory tract, the abdomen, the skin, the bones and joints, and the urinary tract, including cystitis (bladder inflammation) in women. It is also prescribed for severe sinus or bronchial infections, infectious diarrhea, typhoid fever, inhalational anthrax, infections of the prostate gland, and some sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea. Additionally, some doctors prescribe Cipro for certain serious ear infections, tuberculosis, and some of the infections common in people with AIDS.
Hydrocortisone is an anti-inflammatory
Ciprofloxacin may also be prescribed for children with a urinary tract infection or kidney infection when other antibiotics are not effective.
Because Ciprofloxacin is effective only for certain types of bacterial infections, before beginning treatment your doctor may perform tests to identify the specific organisms causing your infection.
Cipro is available as a tablet and an oral suspension (liquid). Cialis generic improves erection and lets achieve a successful sexual intercourse. Cipro HC Otic is a suspension (ear drops) that also contains the anti-inflammatory drug hydrocortisone; it\'s used externally to treat ear infections.
Cipro XR, an extended-release form of the drug, is used to treat cystitis, urinary tract infection, and kidney infection.
Most important facts about Cipro and Cipro HC
Ciprofloxacin kills a variety of bacteria, and is frequently used to treat infections in many parts of the body. However, be sure to stop taking Cipro and notify your doctor immediately at the first sign of a skin rash or any other allergic reaction. Although quite rare, serious and occasionally fatal allergic reactions--some following the first dose--have been reported in people receiving this type of antibacterial drug. Some reactions have been accompanied by collapse of the circulatory system, loss of consciousness, swelling of the face and throat, shortness of breath, tingling, itching, and hives. Fever and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) are other potential symptoms that should send you to the doctor immediately.
How should you use Cipro and Cipro HC?
Cipro tablets can be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Cipro should not be taken with dairy products (such as milk or yogurt) or calcium-fortified juices alone; however, Cipro may be taken with a meal that contains these products. Drink plenty of fluids while taking Cipro to prevent crystals from forming in your urine.
Like other antibiotics, Cipro works best when there is a constant amount in the blood and urine. To help keep the level constant, try not to miss any dose, and take them at approximately the same time every day.
Your doctor will only prescribe Cipro to treat a bacterial infection; it will not cure a viral infection, such as the common cold. It\'s important to take the full dosage schedule of Cipro, even if you\'re feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug\'s effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Cipro and similar antibiotics.
If you are taking the oral suspension, be sure to shake the bottle vigorously for 15 seconds before each dose. Swallow without chewing the microcapsules in the suspension. Reclose the bottle completely, following the instructions on the cap.
Do not use Cipro HC Otic suspension in your eyes, and avoid contaminating the dropper by letting it touch your ears, fingers, or other surfaces. To administer the Cipro HC ear drops:
1. Warm the Cipro HC otic suspension by holding the bottle in your hand for a minute or two; putting a cold Cipro HC suspension into the ear can cause dizziness.
2. Have the person lie down with the affected ear up.
3. Shake the bottle, then position the filled dropper above the entrance to the ear canal.
4. Squeeze 3 drops of Cipro HC into the ear. The person should not get up for 30 to 60 seconds after the drops have been given.
5. Throw away any Cipro HC suspension that remains after treatment is finished.
