Ciprofloxacin

Fluoroquinolone for susceptible gram-negative and gram-positive infections; topical ophthalmic for corneal ulcers and conjunctivitis. Fluoroquinolone antibiotic (ciprofloxacin HCl). Mechanism: inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV → prevents bacterial DNA supercoiling and replication (bactericidal). Concentration-dependent killing with post-antibiotic effect. Broad gram-negative spectrum; moderate gram-positive activity. Key information Do NOT use in growing animals (cartilage toxicity). Fluoroquinolone resistance monitoring important. Chelated by calcium, antacids, zinc, iron — administer separately by 2 hours. Store at room temperature.

Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. for best absorption (may give with food if GI upset). Separate from antacids, dairy, iron, and sucralfate by 2 hrs. Ophthalmic solution: Instill into the conjunctival sac; avoid touching dropper tip to eye or periocular tissue. IV: dilute in 0.9% NaCl; infuse over 60 min. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one. Complete the full antibiotic course.

GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia. Cartilage toxicity: articular damage in growing animals. CNS: seizures (rare), tremors. Tendinopathy (rare). Photosensitivity. Crystalluria. Retinal toxicity in cats (do not use high doses). Drug interactions: chelation with divalent cations (antacids, dairy, iron) reduces absorption.

For animals CONTRAINDICATED in growing animals (cartilage toxicity). Cats: avoid high doses (retinal toxicity risk — similar to enrofloxacin but lower risk). Do not administer with dairy, antacids, or multivalent cation supplements (chelation, reduced absorption). Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Fluoroquinolone — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Photosensitivity possible. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact.

Contact your veterinarian. Overdose causes GI signs and neurological signs at very high doses. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.