Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic. The active ingredient comes from the group of fluoroquinolones. The pharmaceutical company Bayer developed ciprofloxacin in 1981, and it was patented in 1983.
What is ciprofloxacin?
Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Ciprofloxacin is an active ingredient used against a wide range of diseases. It belongs to the group of so-called synthetic antibiotics. The active ingredient has an extremely broad spectrum of activity and is classified as a fluoroquinolone. Antibiotics from the fluoroquinolone group 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 is slowed down. As a result, the bacteria are inhibited from multiplying. Thus, ciprofloxacin exhibits a bactericidal effect that is primarily directed against Gram-negative germs.
Pharmacologic action
The antibiotic ciprofloxacin affects both gyrase and DNA topoisomerase type IV, thereby reducing the DNA synthesis capacity and cell division ability of bacteria. In addition, other mechanisms of action are under discussion that have not yet been fully explored. Ciprofloxacin has a secondary bactericidal effect. This means that the effect of the substance improves the faster the bacteria multiply. If at the same time the biosynthesis of proteins or the synthesis of RNA is reduced by chloramphenicol, macrolides or rifampicin, 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 is also partially effective against gram-positive pathogens. In addition, it combats intracellular pathogens. In order to be effective, the correct dosage of the substance is essential, depending on the disease to be treated. The dose and duration of application vary depending on the type of infection. In most cases, ciprofloxacin is administered twice a day. The preferred form of administration is usually the tablet. In certain diseases, a single administration of ciprofloxacin in an amount of 500 milligrams is sufficient. This is the case, for example, with gonorrhea. In addition, there is also the possibility of intravenous administration. In addition, topical application of ciprofloxacin is possible, for example, in the form of eye or ear drops.
Medical application and use
Administration of ciprofloxacin is indicated for bacterial infections whose pathogens are sensitive to the substance. These include, for example, respiratory tract infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae or Moraxella catarrhalis. Ciprofloxacin may 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. Furthermore, the antibiotic can 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 agent is possible in relatives of a patient with meningococcal meningitis. In principle, the antibiotic should only be used in respiratory tract infections after careful consideration, as it is not sufficiently effective against the responsible germs, the pneumococci. Ciprofloxacin may also be used for biliary tract infections and anthrax.
Risks and side effects
Ciprofloxacin is associated with a variety of possible side effects, some of which can be severe. The most common side effects include nausea, skin rashes, and diarrhea. Use during pregnancy and lactation is not advised, nor should children be given ciprofloxacin. Animal studies in young dogs have shown that ciprofloxacin impairs cartilage growth. Other possible side effects include liver toxicity and neurotoxicity of the drug, as well as allergic reactions. Observations indicate an association with red-man syndrome.Because ciprofloxacin may reduce the seizure threshold, individuals with seizure disorders should avoid the antibiotic if possible or take it only under close observation. Numerous described side effects of ciprofloxacin relate to tendons. Thus, swelling, pain, inflammation, and tearing may occur in the tendons. The back of the ankle may also be affected. Such side effects can occur in people of all ages. Most commonly, swelling and pain occur in the Achilles tendon. Tendon ruptures are possible even months after treatment with ciprofloxacin. The likelihood of damage to tendons also increases in patients older than 60 years. Observations indicate that portions of the drug may reduce the strength of tendons. In rare cases, psychotic disturbances, 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 effect of caffeine is increased. Any side effects that occur should always be reported to the treating physician.
