Cipro

Pronounced: SIP-roh
Generic name: Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride
Other brand names: Cipro HC Otic, Cipro XR

Why is Cipro prescribed?

Cipro 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.

Cipro may also be prescribed for children with a urinary tract infection or kidney infection when other antibiotics are not effective.

Because Cipro 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). 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 fact about Cipro

Cipro 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.