6. Ciprofloxacin (texto original)

GENERIC NAME: ciprofloxacin

BRAND NAME: Cipro, Cipro XR, Proquin XR

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections. Ciprofloxacin belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics which includes levofloxacin (Levaquin), ofloxacin (Floxin), gatifloxacin (Tequin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), trovafloxacin (Trovan) and others. Ciprofloxacin stops the multiplication of bacteria by inhibiting the reproduction and repair of their genetic material (DNA). The FDA approved ciprofloxacin in October 1987.

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 250, 500, and 750 mg. Tablets extended release (XR): 500 and 1000 mg. Microcapsules for suspension: 250 mg/5 ml, 500 mg/5 ml. Injection or Injection concentrate: 200 and 400 mg.

STORAGE: Immediate release tablets: store below 30C (86F). Extended release tablets: store between 15-30C (59-86F). Microcapsules: store below 25C (77F) and protect from freezing. Injection: Store between 5-30C (41-86F) and avoid freezing.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Ciprofloxacin is used to treat infections of the skin, lungs, airways, bones, and joints caused by susceptible bacteria. Ciprofloxacin is also frequently used to treat urinary infections caused by bacteria such as E. coli. Ciprofloxacin is effective in treating infectious diarrheas caused by E. coli,Campylobacter jejuni, and Shigella bacteria.

DOSING: For most infections the recommended oral dose for adults is 250-750 mg (immediate release tablets) every 12 hours or 500-1000 mg (extended release tablets) every 24 hours. The usual intravenous dose is 200-400 mg every 8-12 hours.