What Is Cipro?

Cipro® (ciprofloxacin) is prescribed for treating a wide variety of different infections. But what is Cipro and how does it work?
 
Cipro belongs to a group of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones, or "quinolones" for short. It is available as a tablet, an oral liquid suspension, and an intravenous (IV) solution. This medication is typically taken twice daily, with about 12 hours between doses.
 
As an antibiotic, Cipro works by killing certain bacteria that cause infections. It does this by interfering with two bacterial enzymes, which are needed for the bacteria to multiply.
 
Some of the bacterial infections Cipro is approved to treat include:
 
(Click Cipro for a complete overview of what Cipro is prescribed for, including specific uses and a detailed description of how this antibiotic works. This article also covers potential side effects, dosing information, and general safety precautions to be aware of before beginning treatment.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD