Ciprofloxacin
Also known as: Cipro, Cipro XR, Cipro I.V., Ciloxan
> **Important**: Give this medication exactly as prescribed, and do not skip doses to ensure the infection is fully treated. * **Administration**: Best given on an empty stomach. If it causes stomach upset, a small treat is okay, but **do not give with dairy products** (cheese, milk, yogurt) as the calcium prevents the drug from being absorbed. * **Supplements**: Separate from antacids, iron, or zinc supplements by at least 2 hours. * **Hydration**: Ensure your pet has access to plenty of fresh water at all times to prevent crystal formation in the urine. * **Side Effects**: Watch for vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual neurologic signs (like dizziness or tremors). Contact your veterinarian if these occur. * **Growing Pets**: This drug is generally avoided in young, growing animals as it can cause joint and cartilage problems.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Susceptible infections
- Ocular infections
- Severe ocular infections (intensive therapy)
- Susceptible infections
- Susceptible gram-negative infections
- Susceptible gram-negative infections
- Susceptible gram-negative infections
- Susceptible infections (Ratites)
- Susceptible infections (Rabbits)
- Susceptible infections (Chinchillas, Gerbils, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, Mice, Rats)
- Pasteurellosis (Rabbits)
- Susceptible infections
- UTI
How it is given
Possible side effects
- GI distress (vomiting, anorexia)
- Cartilage abnormalities in young, growing animals
- CNS stimulation (dizziness, seizures)
- Crystalluria
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Local irritation after application
- Local burning and itching (reported in humans)
- Lid margin crusting (reported in humans)
- Hyperaemia (reported in humans)
- Taste disturbances (reported in humans)
- Corneal staining (reported in humans)
- Keratitis (reported in humans)
- Lid oedema (reported in humans)
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fluoroquinolones
- Small and medium breed dogs 2-8 months of age (due to cartilage damage)
- Large and giant breed dogs during their rapid growth phase (past 8 months of age)
- Known hypersensitivity to ciprofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- > **Caution**: Use with care in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment (dosage adjustments may be required to prevent accumulation). * **Hydration**: Animals should not be allowed to become dehydrated during therapy due to the risk of crystalluria. * **Neurologic**: Use with caution in patients with seizure disorders due to potential CNS stimulation. * **Feline Retinal Toxicity**: Use high doses in cats with caution. While retinal toxicity appears less likely than with enrofloxacin (as ciprofloxacin is less lipophilic), caution is still advised.
Drug interactions
- Antacids/Dairy Products (Mg++, Al+++, Ca++): May bind to ciprofloxacin and prevent its absorption; separate doses by at least 2 hours
- Antibiotics (aminoglycosides, 3rd-generation cephalosporins, extended-spectrum penicillins): Synergism may occur against some bacteria (particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa)
- Cyclosporine: May exacerbate nephrotoxicity and reduce the metabolism of cyclosporine
- Glyburide: Severe hypoglycemia possible
- Iron, Zinc (oral): Decreased ciprofloxacin absorption; separate doses by at least two hours
- Methotrexate: Increased MTX levels possible with resultant toxicity
- Nitrofurantoin: May antagonize the antimicrobial activity of fluoroquinolones; concomitant use not recommended
- Phenytoin: May alter phenytoin levels
- Probenecid: Blocks tubular secretion of ciprofloxacin and may increase its blood level and half-life
- Quinidine: Increased risk for cardiotoxicity
- Sucralfate: May inhibit absorption of ciprofloxacin; separate doses by at least 2 hours
Frequently asked questions
What is Ciprofloxacin used for in pets?
> **Important**: Give this medication exactly as prescribed, and do not skip doses to ensure the infection is fully treated. * **Administration**: Best given on an empty stomach. If it causes stomach upset, a small treat is okay, but **do not give with dairy products** (cheese, milk, yogurt) as the calcium prevents the drug from being absorbed. * **Supplements**: Separate from antacids, iron, or zinc supplements by at least 2 hours. * **Hydration**: Ensure your pet has access to plenty of fresh water at all times to prevent crystal formation in the urine. * **Side Effects**: Watch for vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual neurologic signs (like dizziness or tremors). Contact your veterinarian if these occur. * **Growing Pets**: This drug is generally avoided in young, growing animals as it can cause joint and cartilage problems.
Is Ciprofloxacin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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