Ciprofloxacin is an eye drop medication used to treat infections in the eye, such as corneal ulcers and bacterial conjunctivitis. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria that cause these infections. For corneal ulcers, you will typically start with two drops in the affected eye every 15 minutes for the first six hours, then every 30 minutes for the rest of the day, and continue with hourly drops on the second day, followed by every four hours for the next two weeks. For bacterial conjunctivitis, the usual starting dose is one or two drops every two hours while you are awake for two days, then every four hours while awake for five days. It's important to know that if you have had an allergic reaction to ciprofloxacin or similar medications in the past, you should not use it. Additionally, be cautious if you are taking other quinolone antibiotics, as they may interact with this medication.
✦
Uses
- Corneal Ulcers.
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis.
◷
Dosage
For corneal ulcers: 2 drops every 15 minutes for the first 6 hours, then every 30 minutes for the rest of the day.
On the second day, use 2 drops every hour.
From days 3 to 14, use 2 drops every 4 hours.
For bacterial conjunctivitis: 1 or 2 drops every 2 hours while awake for 2 days, then every 4 hours for the next 5 days.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
⚠
Side effects
Common
local burning or discomfortwhite crystalline precipitates in about 17% of patientsLess common: lid margin crustingforeign body sensationitchingcorneal stainingkeratopathylid edematearingphotophobia
Serious
allergic reactionsdecreased vision
🛑
Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Ciprofloxacin may cause local burning or discomfort.
- Use with caution if you have a history of allergic reactions.
- Monitor for signs of corneal staining or keratitis.
- Not recommended for patients with certain resistant bacterial strains.
⇄
Drug interactions
- Theophyllinemay increase plasma levelsCaution
- Caffeinemay interfere with metabolismCaution
- Warfarinmay enhance its effectsCaution
- Cyclosporinemay cause transient serum creatinine elevations.Caution
Ask about this drug
Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Other Brands:
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
MedDataTool