People's Pharmacy

Cipro

Generic Name:ciprofloxacin

Revised:4/1/2000

Table of Contents

Side Effects and Interactions

Cipro may cause lightheadedness. Do not drive or attempt any activity that requires coordination and judgment if you become impaired.

Some people report restlessness, insomnia, nightmares, dizziness, tremor, headache, or irritability while taking this medicine.

Such symptoms can be made worse by coffee or the asthma medicine theophylline.

Cipro affects the liver and may allow caffeine and theophylline to build up to toxic levels in the body.

Because Cipro may cause digestive tract upset, nausea, pain or diarrhea, you may be tempted to use an antacid. That could be a big mistake.

Aluminum or calcium-based products, including Di-Gel, Gaviscon, Maalox, Mylanta, and Tums, can dramatically interfere with the absorption of Cipro. Wait at least two hours after taking Cipro before swallowing an antacid.

Vitamin and mineral formulas can also cause problems, so they should not be taken at the same time either.

Other side effects are rare, but be alert for changes in vision, rash, sores in the mouth, joint pain or stiffness, chest pain or heart palpitations, urinary changes, or breathing difficulty. Report any symptoms or suspected side effects to your physician promptly.