Ciprofloxacin

At Ciprofloxacin it is a broad spectrum antibiotic. The active ingredient comes from the group of fluoroquinolones. The pharmaceutical company Bayer developed ciprofloxacin in 1981, which was patented in 1983.

What is ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin is an active ingredient that is used against a variety of diseases. It belongs to the group of so-called synthetic antibiotics. The active ingredient has an extremely broad spectrum of activity and is counted among the fluoroquinolones.

Antibiotics from the group of fluoroquinolones have the property of inhibiting the so-called gyrase in bacteria. As a result, the bacteria are impaired in the replication of their DNA, because cell division takes place more slowly. As a result, the bacteria are inhibited from multiplying. Thus, ciprofloxacin has a bactericidal effect that is primarily directed against gram-negative germs.

Pharmacological effect

The antibiotic ciprofloxacin influences both gyrase and DNA topoisomerase type IV. It thus reduces the DNA synthesis capacity and the ability of bacteria to divide cells. In addition, other mechanisms of action are up for discussion that have not yet been fully researched.

Ciprofloxacin has a secondary bactericidal effect. This means that the faster the bacteria multiply, the better the substance works. If the biosynthesis of proteins or the synthesis of RNA by chloramphenicol, macrolides or rifampicin is reduced at the same time, this reduces the effectiveness of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin.

The substance is characterized by a very broad spectrum of activity. Like other types of fluoroquinolones, ciprofloxacin is particularly effective against gram-negative pathogens. However, ciprofloxacin also shows some effects against germs in the gram-positive range. In addition, intracellular pathogens are combated.

In order to be able to develop its effect, the correct dosage of the substance depending on the disease to be treated is essential. The dose and duration of use vary depending on the type of infection. In most cases, ciprofloxacin is given twice a day. The preferred form of administration is usually the tablet.

For certain diseases, a single dose of 500 milligrams of ciprofloxacin is sufficient. This is the case, for example, with gonorrhea (gonorrhea). There is also the option of intravenous administration. In addition, topical application of ciprofloxacin is possible in the form of eye or ear drops.

Medical application & use

The administration of ciprofloxacin is indicated for bacterial infections whose pathogens are sensitive to the substance. These include, for example, infections of the respiratory tract caused by Haemophilus influenzae or Moraxella catarrhalis.

Ciprofloxacin can be used for urinary tract infections caused by Proteus, Escherichia coli, or Klebsiella. Ciprofloxacin can also be used for gastrointestinal infections caused by Shigella, Salmonella, typhoid or Campylobacter.

The antibiotic can also be used against the problematic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This causes, for example, diseases such as cystic fibrosis, otitis externa maligna and osteomyelitis. In addition, prophylactic use of the active ingredient in relatives of a patient with meningococcal meningitis is possible.

Basically, the antibiotic should only be used for respiratory infections after careful consideration, as it does not work sufficiently against the responsible germs, the pneumococci. Ciprofloxacin can also be used for infections of the biliary tract and for anthrax.

Risks & side effects

Ciprofloxacin is associated with a large number of possible side effects, which can be very serious. The most common side effects include nausea, rashes, and diarrhea. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended, and children should not be given ciprofloxacin. Animal studies with young dogs have shown that ciprofloxacin affects cartilage growth.

Other possible side effects are, for example, liver toxicity and neurotoxicity of the active ingredient as well as allergic reactions. Observations indicate a connection to the Red man syndrome. Since ciprofloxacin may reduce the seizure threshold, people with seizure disorders should avoid the antibiotic if possible or only take it under close observation.

Numerous described side effects of ciprofloxacin relate to the tendons. This can cause swelling, pain, inflammation and tears in the tendons. The back of the ankle can also be affected.

Such side effects can occur in people of all ages. The most common areas are swelling and pain in the Achilles tendon. Tendon ruptures are still possible months after treatment with ciprofloxacin. The likelihood of damage to the tendons also increases in patients older than 60 years. Observations indicate that parts of the active ingredient can reduce the strength of tendons.

In rare cases, psychotic disorders including suicidal tendencies have been described with the use of ciprofloxacin. Patients suffering from seizures or cardiac arrhythmias should avoid foods and medicines containing caffeine, as the effects of caffeine are increased. Any side effects should always be reported to the attending physician.