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What Is Ciprofloxacin Used For?

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic doctors use to treat a variety of infections. It is called a broad-spectrum antibiotic because if works at fighting many different infections.

  1. History

    • The Food and Drug Administration approved oral ciprofloxacin in 1987 and intravenous ciprofloxacin in 1991.

    Significance

    • Ciprofloxacin is a member of the fluroquinolone family of antibiotics. It is sold worldwide. The most well-known brand of ciprofloxacin is sold as Cipro.

    Uninary Tract Infections

    • Ciprofloxacin is frequently prescribed for urinary tract infections (UTIs). It works by stopping the growth of the proteins the bacteria needs to reproduce. Ciprofloxacin is regarded as the gold standard treatment for UTIs.

    Treatment for Sinusitis

    • Doctors often use ciprofloxacin to treat both acute and chronic sinusitis. This is a common condition where the sinuses become infected.

    Considerations

    • After the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 1991, ciprofloxacin received widespread coverage as a first-line treatment for inhaled anthrax.

    Pediatric Use

    • Children should receive ciprofloxacin as a treatment only as a last resort. It can cause permanent and severe injury to children's musculoskeletal system.

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