Ciprofloxacin
(sip-roe-flox-a-sin)
Description: Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic
Other Names forthis Medication: Cipro®
Common Dosage Forms: Veterinary: None. Human: 100 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, & 750 mg tablets; 500 mg & 1000 mg long-acting tablets; 250 mg/5 mL (50 mg/mL) & 500 mg/5 mL (100 mg/mL) oral suspension.
Antimicrobial Classification: Critically Important

Key Information
Ciprofloxacin is best given on an empty stomach, butif your animal vomits or acts sick after getting it, give with food or small treat(no dairy products, antacids, or anything containing iron) to see if this helps. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian. Do not give atthe same time as other drugs or vitamins that contain calcium, iron, or aluminum (including sucralfate) as these can reduce the amount of drug absorbed.
May cause joint abnormalities if used in young animals, during pregnancy, or while nursing. Most common side effects are vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of an appetite.

How is this medication useful?
Ciprofloxacin is used to treat some infections in animals. The FDA has approved this drug for use in humans, but it is not officially approved for use in animals. The FDA allows veterinarians to prescribe products containing this drug in different species or for other conditions in certain situations. You and your veterinarian can discuss why this drug is the most appropriate choice.

How long until I will know if this medication is working, and how long will the effects of this medication last?
This medication should start having effects within 1 to 2 hours; however, you may not see the effects of this medication outwardly. Your animal should begin feeling better within 1 to 2 days. The effects of this medication are short-lived, meaning they will stop working within 24 hours, although the benefits may be prolonged if your animal has decreased kidney and/or liver function.

Side effects that may be serious or indicate a serious problem:
Joint(cartilage) effects (eg, trouble walking) especially in young growing animals. Central nervous system effects including stimulation (eg, overly excited) or seizures (rare), especially in animals with liver or kidney problems. Blindness in cats. Large doses of this drug could cause blindness in cats. Fever, rashes, or trouble breathing may indicate an allergy to the drug. Complete loss of appetite in cats can sometimes cause severe liver problems. If you see any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How should this medication be given?
For this medication to work, give it exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. It’s a good idea to always check the prescription label to be sure you are giving the drug correctly. This drug is best given without food on an empty stomach, but if your animal vomits or acts sick after getting it on an empty stomach,
give with food or a small treat(no dairy products, antacids or anything containing iron) to see if this helps. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian. Liquid forms of this medication must be measured carefully and should be shaken well each time before giving it to your animal. Your veterinarian or pharmacist can help by providing special measuring spoons or syringes. Liquid forms of this drug should be discarded on the day your veterinarian or pharmacist has indicated. Special Instructions:
If you have difficulty getting your animal to take the medicine, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist for tips to help with dosing and reducing the stress of medication time. This medication can be given for various lengths of time. Be sure you understand how long your veterinarian wants you to continue
giving this medication. Prescription refills may be necessary before the therapy will be complete. Before stopping this medication, talk to your veterinarian, as there may be important reasons to continue its use.

If you have any other questions about this medication, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist