Ciproxin (ciprofloxacin)

What is Ciprofloxacin?

Ciproxin (ciprofloxacin) is an antibiotic, part of a group of antibiotics called quinolones. It is used to treat bacterial infections, especially chest infections, stomach bugs and urinary tract infections. It has also traditionally been given as a treatment for Gonorrhoea although most strains are now resistant so Cefixime is normally given as an alternative.

Ciproxin is available as a generic medication under the name ciprofloxacin.

Can I buy Ciprofloxacin?

The Online Clinic no longer prescribes Ciprofloxacin for Gonorrhoea but we can prescribe an alternative medication. Our first choice is Cefixime but if you are allergic to that then we will prescribe Azithromycin.

How does Ciprofloxacin work?

Ciprofloxacin kills the bacteria by entering the bacterial cells and stopping an enzyme called DNA-gyrase from working. The enzyme helps the bacteria replicate and repair their DNA material, so when it stops working, the bacteria cannot multiply or stay healthy and therefore they die.

What should I do if I have had Ciprofloxacin to treat Gonorrhoea?

Because of known drug resistance, it is essential that everyone who is treated for Gonorrhoea must be retested 6 weeks after the treatment ceases. It is also recommended that you do not have unprotected sex until you have had the all clear at the time of the follow-up test. We recommend The STI Clinic for sexual health checks. They can normally provide results within 24 hours of receiving your urine sample.

Does Ciprofloxacin cause side effects?

The most common side effects caused by this medication are nausea, diarrhoea and rashes. Less commonly, people have reported headaches, dizziness, insomnia and loss of appetite, among other things.

Extremely rarely, it can cause liver or kidney problems, depression, or hallucinations.

Please note that this is not a complete list of possible side effects associated with Ciprofloxacin.

Who should not take Ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin should not be used during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. It is also not suitable if you are allergic to this type of antibiotic. Ciprofloxacin should be used with caution in people over 60 or those who have had an organ transplant, poor kidney function, a history of brain or nervous system disorders or who are taking corticosteroids. A full disclosure should be made to your doctor so that they can assess whether or not this medication is appropriate for you.