Ciprofloxacin

What is Ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for the treatment of bacterial infections of the urinary tract, skin, respiratory tract, and wound infections due to susceptible organisms. This medication may also be used for purposes other than those listed here. Ciprofloxacin is sold per tablet and requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For:

Cats and Dogs

Benefits:

• Kills bacteria that causes infections of the skin, urinary tract, kidneys, and respiratory system
• Sold per tablet

How does ciprofloxacin work?

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone, an antimicrobial medicine that kills bacteria by blocking bacterial DNA.

Cautions:

Side effects may include loose stools and diarrhea.

Brand Name:

Cipro Tablets (Bayer)

Generic Name:

Ciprofloxacin

What is the most important thing I should know about ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin is a prescription medication that is not FDA-approved for veterinary use. Do not use ciprofloxacin in pets younger than one year of age.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving ciprofloxacin to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has had epilepsy or seizures, or has joint problems or kidney disease. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.

How should ciprofloxacin be given?

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Give all of the medication your veterinarian has prescribed. Symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated. Ciprofloxacin can be given with or without food, but should be given at the same time every day. Allow plenty of water for your pet to drink. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Store ciprofloxacin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of ciprofloxacin?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose my pet on ciprofloxacin?

If you suspect that your pet has received an overdose of ciprofloxacin, consult your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

What should I avoid while giving ciprofloxacin to my pet?

Do not administer ciprofloxacin to pregnant pets, as it has detrimental effects on growing joints and bones. Do not give ciprofloxacin to pets younger than 1 year of age. It may also have a detrimental effect on growing large breed dogs as old as 2 years. Use with extreme caution on cats, especially those with pre-existing kidney failure. Use with caution in all pets with kidney disease, liver disease, central nervous system disorders, or epilepsy.

What other drugs will affect ciprofloxacin?

Before giving ciprofloxacin, tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given warfarin, theophylline, probenecid, insulin or oral diabetes medication such as Glipizide, an NSAID such as carprofen, Deramaxx or other, Phenytoin or cyclosporine modified. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with ciprofloxacin. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over-the-counter medications.