Cipro
® (
ciprofloxacin) is commonly prescribed to treat several types of bacterial infections. It is typically taken twice daily and is available as a tablet, an oral liquid suspension, and an intravenous (IV) solution. But what type of antibiotic is Cipro and how does it work to treat infections?
Cipro belongs to a group of medications called fluoroquinolones, or "quinolones" for short. It works by killing certain bacteria that cause infections. It does this by interfering with two bacterial enzymes called topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase. These enzymes are needed by the bacteria to copy and repair DNA, important steps required for the bacteria to multiply.
This antibiotic is not appropriate for everyone; your healthcare provider needs complete information on your medical history and what medications you are taking before prescribing Cipro.
(For more information on this type of antibiotic, click Cipro. This article covers how this prescription medicine works, lists potential side effects, and offers some safety precautions to be aware of before beginning treatment.)
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