Cipro

Uses:
CIPRO is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections.

How to Take:
Ciprofloxacin may be taken with or without food. It is recommended you drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Shake well before using each dose. Do not chew the contents of the suspension. Take exactly as directed by your doctor. If you take any of the following products, take them 6 hours before or 2 hours after taking CIPRO: zinc, iron, mineral supplements, sucralfate, didanosine, antacids that contain magnesium, calcium, or aluminum, and certain foods containing calcium (e.g., milk, yogurt, and calcium-enriched orange juice). Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to take CIPRO until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection. This form of ciprofloxacin is not for use with feeding tubes because the drug may clog the tube.

Side Effects:
CIPRO may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, headache or dizziness during the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. Report new pain or tenderness (tendonitis) in arms or legs promptly. Notify your doctor if you develop any of the following effects: vision changes, restlessness, ringing in the ears, mental changes. CIPRO may infrequently cause drowsiness. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, fever, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:
Before taking CIPRO, tell your doctor your medical history especially of: epilepsy, kidney disease, tendon problems, nervous system disorders, liver disease, blood vessel problems, any drug allergies. Use caution driving or performing tasks requiring alertness if CIPRO makes you dizzy or lightheaded. Limit alcohol intake because it may add to the dizziness/drowsiness effects. CIPRO can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and a sunscreen if you become sun-sensitive. CIPRO should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. You may have to stop nursing or stop taking CIPRO. Consult you doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all the medications you may use (both prescription and nonprescription) especially of: other antibiotics, theophylline, warfarin, cyclosporine, live vaccines, probenecid, sucralfate, quinapril, didanosine, iron, zinc, mineral supplements, antacids (containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium). CIPRO may increase and/or prolong the effects of caffeine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes:
CIPRO has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be needed in those cases.

Missed Dose:
If you should miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.

Storage:
Before mixing, store the dry powder and mixing solution below 77 degrees F (25 C). Do not freeze. Once mixed, the suspension is good for 14 days and may be refrigerated or stored at a room temperature below 86 degrees F (30 degrees C). Do not freeze. Discard any unsed portion after treatment completed.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.