Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class.
It is used to treat various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and gastrointestinal infections. Ciprofloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination, thereby preventing bacterial cell division and growth.
Some common side effects of ciprofloxacin include nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and photosensitivity. Serious but rare side effects can include tendonitis, tendon rupture, and peripheral neuropathy. It is important to use ciprofloxacin only under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as improper use can contribute to antibiotic resistance.