Ciprofloxacin Coupon & Discounts

Ciprofloxacin Information:

• What

What is ciprofloxacin?

It is a generic, broad-spectrum, fluoroquinolone antimicrobial used to treat or prevent infections caused by bacteria, including anthrax. This medication is not intended to treat illnesses caused by viruses. Certain forms of ciprofloxacin are used for specific infections (e.g., extended-release pills are for certain urinary tract infections).

This medication may also be administered in the event or immediate expectation of biological warfare. Only take ciprofloxacin if directed to do so by your doctor.

• How

How do I take ciprofloxacin?

The method and dosing will depend on which of the uses for ciprofloxacin is required. Always follow your doctor's instructions and take exactly the amount prescribed, not more or less.

For the oral suspension (ciprofloxacin): Take 1 dose 2 times daily, making sure to take your doses 12 hours apart and at the same times every day. Shake your medication bottle vigorously for at least 15 seconds, then carefully measure out your dose with a measuring cup or a special dosing spoon. Swallow your medication without chewing any of the medication particles that may be present. Follow with a full glass (8 oz) of water, and ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day.

For the tablet (ciprofloxacin hydrochloride): Take 1 pill by mouth 2 times daily, and ensure you take your doses at the same time every day. Doses should be taken 12 hours apart. While you can take this medication with or without food, take your dose with a full glass (8 oz) of water and ensure you drink several glasses of water throughout the day for as long as you're taking this medication.

For the extended-release (ciprofloxacin ER): Take 1 pill by mouth 1 time daily at the same time every day with a full glass (8 oz) of water. Be sure to drink several glasses of water throughout the day. Never cut, crush, or chew your pill.

Do not take your dose with dairy or calcium-fortified juices, unless they are part of a regular meal. They can diminish the efficacy of your medication. Do not take the following medicines or supplements within 6 hours before and 2 hours after your dose of ciprofloxacin: antacids with aluminum or magnesium, didanosine, vitamins containing iron or zinc, supplements containing calcium, sucralfate.

• Precautions

Before taking ciprofloxacin, tell your doctor if:

• You are currently taking certain medications, including diuretics, heart rhythm medications, psychiatric medications, immunosuppressants, dopamine agonists, and more. These medications may interact with ciprofloxacin.
• You are taking any other prescription or non-prescription medications, supplements, or vitamins, especially if they contain calcium, iron, or aluminum.
• You are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as it may be harmful to your baby and safer alternatives are available. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you become pregnant while taking this medication.
• You have had an allergic reaction to other antimicrobials.
• You have or have a history of musculoskeletal or nerve disorders, especially myasthenia gravis.
• You have tendon or joint problems or arthritis, especially for children.
• You have or have a history of heart rhythm disorders, especially Long QT syndrome.
• You are taking a blood thinner and require INR or prothrombin time tests.
• You have epilepsy or experience other seizures.
• You have a history of brain tumors or head injuries, whether recently or not.
• You have or have a history of liver or kidney disease.
• You have diabetes.
• You have hypokalemia (low blood-potassium levels).
• Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of taking ciprofloxacin?

Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience signs of tendon rupture or nerve symptoms, including: unusual bruising, stiffness or difficulty moving, snapping or popping in your joints, sudden pain or tenderness, swelling, numbness, tingling or burning pain, a sense of your body position, or unusual sensitivity to temperature.

Stop taking your medication and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: depression, anxiety, or other changes in thought or behavior; hallucinations; nightmares or insomnia; sudden fever with chills, sore throat, mouth sores, or unusual bruising or bleeding; trouble breathing; muscle weakness; increased sensation of pressure inside the skull with severe headaches, pain behind your eyes, dizziness or nausea, or ringing in your ears; sudden headache with chest pain and fast or irregular heartbeats, severe dizziness or fainting; seizure; jaundice; nausea and loss of appetite; upper stomach pain; dark urine; stool that is clay-colored; diarrhea that is bloody or watery.

Common side effects from taking ciprofloxacin include: headache (mild), dizziness or lightheadedness (mild), general discomfort, vomiting or nausea, diarrhea (mild), vaginal itching or discharge.

• Missed Dose

What if I forget to take a dose of ciprofloxacin?

For all oral forms of ciprofloxacin: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Always maintain your regular dosing schedule, and never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. Never take more than 2 doses per day.

 

• Storage

How do I store ciprofloxacin?

Store all forms away from light and heat at room temperature. Liquid forms of this medication (i.e., oral solution, intravenous) can be kept in a refrigerator set to 36°F to 46°F. Do not allow your medication to freeze.

• Overdose

What happens if I overdose on ciprofloxacin?

Call your local poison control center and seek medical assistance immediately. Continue to drink plenty of water.

• Additional Info

Warnings

Forms and brands of ciprofloxacin are not interchangeable. Only take the form recommended by your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if your condition persists over the course of your medication, or if it gets worse.

This medication can cause dizziness; do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or perform potentially hazardous tasks until you know how you will react to it. It can also cause extreme photosensitivity, so do not spend extended periods in the sun and avoid tanning or sun lamps. Always wear a hat and clothes that cover your skin as well as use sunscreen (SPF 30+) if you need to be in the sun. If you get severe sunburn or your skin swells, contact your doctor immediately.

Always take your full run of medication, even if you feel better. Stopping an antibiotic before you're supposed to increases your chances of getting sick again, as well as developing antibiotic-resistant illnesses.

Brand Names

The most common brand name for ciprofloxacin is Cipro or Cipro XR. Others include Ciloxin and Proquin XR. These brands can be quite costly, but as a generic, ciprofloxacin prices can be fairly reasonable. Improve your savings by printing or downloading our free discount card or coupon. You can save as much as 92% on the ciprofloxacin retail price from your local pharmacy.