Cipro XR

Generic Name: Ciprofloxacin

  • What is Cipro XR?

    Cipro XR is an extended-release fluoroquinolone antibiotic used only for the treatment of urinary tract infections and acute uncomplicated pyelonephritis.

  • What is the most important information I should know about Cipro XR?

    Like all antibiotics, Cipro XR works only against bacteria. It will not cure an infection caused by a virus, such as the common cold or flu.

    In rare cases, antibiotics can cause a serious allergic reaction. Stop taking Cipro XR and call your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following warning signs: skin rash, tingling, hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapid heartbeat, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

    A rare but serious side effect of Cipro XR is tendon rupture or swelling of the tendon. Stop taking Cipro XR and call your doctor immediately if you notice any tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation.

    Cipro XR may cause a rare heart problem called QT prolongation. Tell your doctor immediately if you have a change in heartbeat.

    Cipro XR may cause damage to nerves in arms, hands, legs, or feet. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following warning signs: pain, burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness.

    Cipro XR and ciprofloxacin immediate-release tablets are not interchangeable.

    Cipro XR may affect your blood sugar so check your blood sugar regularly if you have diabetes.

    Cipro XR may make your skin more sensitive to UV light. Wear proper sun protection.

    Mild diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, a more serious form of diarrhea, although rare, may occur. Contact your doctor right away if you experience stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.

  • Who should not take Cipro XR?

    Do not use Cipro XR if you have a history of allergic reactions to ciprofloxacin, any member of the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics (such as Avelox and Levaquin), or any of the product's components. Also, you should not take Cipro XR if you are already taking a medication called tizanidine.

  • What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Cipro XR?

    Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Cipro XR. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have tendon or joint problems, a heart problem, are being treated for an abnormal heartbeat, a history of a brain or nervous system disorders, seizures, liver or kidney problems, diarrhea, or skin sensitivity to the sun. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

  • What is the usual dosage?

    The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

    Pyelonephritis (Acute Uncomplicated)

    Adults: The recommended dosage is 1,000 milligrams (mg) every 24 hours for 7-14 days.

    Urinary Tract Infection (Complicated)

    Adults: The recommended dosage is 1,000 mg every 24 hours for 7-14 days.

    Urinary Tract Infection (Uncomplicated)

    Adults: The recommended dosage is 500 mg every 24 hours for 3 days.

  • How should I take Cipro XR?

    Cipro XR should be taken once a day for 3-14 days depending on your infection. Take Cipro XR at approximately the same time each day. Cipro XR may be taken with or without meals. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking Cipro XR. Cipro XR should not be taken with dairy products (like milk or yogurt) or calcium-fortified juices alone, but may be taken with a meal that contains these products.

    Swallow the Cipro XR tablet whole. Do not split, crush, or chew the tablet.

    Many antacids, multivitamins, and other dietary supplements containing magnesium, calcium, aluminum, iron, or zinc can interfere with the absorption of Cipro XR and may prevent it from working. Take Cipro XR either 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking these products.

    It's important to take the full dosage schedule of Cipro XR, even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Cipro XR and similar antibiotics. If this happens, Cipro XR and similar antibiotics may not work in the future.

  • What should I avoid while taking Cipro XR?

    Avoid taking Cipro XR with dairy products (such as milk and yogurt) and calcium-fortified juices alone, since they may affect the absorption of Cipro XR. Avoid large amounts of food or drink that have caffeine.

    Cipro XR may make you dizzy or lightheaded. Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or engage in activities requiring mental alertness or coordination until you know how Cipro XR affects you.

    Avoid sunlamps, tanning beds, and limit your time in the sun as Cipro XR can make your skin more sensitive to UV light and may cause sunburns. Wear sunscreen or protective clothing if outside in the sun.

  • What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Cipro XR?

    If Cipro XR is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Cipro XR with the following: antacids containing magnesium hydroxide or aluminum hydroxide, caffeinated food or drinks, calcium-fortified juices, cyclosporine, dairy products, didanosine, food or drink high in iron, calcium, or zinc, glyburide, methotrexate, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), omeprazole, phenytoin, probenecid, sucralfate, theophylline, tizanidine, and warfarin.

  • What are the possible side effects of Cipro XR?

    Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

    Side effects may include: changes in liver function tests, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, headache, nausea, pain or discomfort in the abdomen, rapid heartbeat, rash, sensitivity to light, tendon rupture or swelling, upset stomach, vaginal yeast infection, vision changes, vomiting

  • Can I receive Cipro XR if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

    The effects of Cipro XR during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

  • What should I do if I miss a dose of Cipro XR?

    If you miss a dose of Cipro XR, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take more than one dose in one day.

  • How should I store Cipro XR?

    Store Cipro XR at room temperature.

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I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!

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