Ciprofloxacin
Cipro (ciprofloxacin) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections in adults. It works by killing or stopping the growth of susceptible bacteria. This medication is available only by prescription and should be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare provider.
Cipro is a prescription fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203563
- Generic
- Cipro
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Cipro treats urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin infections, bone and joint infections, gastrointestinal infections, and certain types of infectious diarrhea. It may also be used for post-exposure anthrax prevention.
As a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, Cipro works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, which are essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, and repair. This effectively kills susceptible bacteria or prevents their growth.
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and headache. Serious risks include tendon damage, QT prolongation, and photosensitivity. Not recommended for patients with a history of tendon disorders, myasthenia gravis, or known QT prolongation. Should be used with caution in children, adolescents, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and the elderly. Always complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy