Cipriofloxacin is an antibiotic administered intravenously or orally in tablet or liquid form. It is used to treat several different kinds of bacterial infections and can also be used as a preventative measure for people who may have been exposed to anthrax. Although this medication is generally safe, there are certain side effects associated with its use.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Ciprofloxacin can cause a number of different problems with the gastrointestinal system, Medline Plus notes. These include nausea, vomiting and stomach pain. Patients may also experience heartburn and diarrhea.
Skin Reactions
Patients taking ciprofloxacin can have a number of different skin reactions, RxList notes. These include a rash or itching as well as hives. Patients may also become more sensitive to sunlight, develop hyperpigmented patches of skin and increased sweating. An allergic reaction to ciprofloxacin can also cause swelling of the feet, hands, lips and face.
Tingling and Pain
Ciprofloxacin can lead to tingling, weakness and pain in the arms, legs, hands and feet, Drugs.com notes. Other side effects from ciprofloxacin use include muscle pain or weakness, pain around joints and tendons and the appearance of unexplained bruises on the body's surface. Patients may also have trouble putting weight on or moving joints.
Liver Damage
Ciprofloxacin can be toxic to the liver in some cases. This can lead to pain in the upper right portion of the abdomen as well as jaundice, which may manifest itself as yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes. Liver damage can also result in the urine becoming abnormally dark as well as easy bruising or bleeding.
Urogenital
Ciprofloxacin use can affect the renal system, resulting in a sudden urgency to urinate. Women may also experience vaginal discharge.
Sensory Changes
A number of sensory side effects have been linked to ciprofloxacin use, RxList notes. These include blurred vision or changes in color or light perception. Ciprofloxacin use can also lead to deficits in vision and hearing. Patients may also develop a sensation of ringing in the ears or a bad taste in the mouth
Psychological Effects
There are a number of psychological effects associated with ciprofloxacin. Milder side effects include anxiety or restlessness, as well as problems sleeping. In more severe cases, patients can develop hallucinations, experience extreme depression and have suicidal thoughts, according to MedlinePlus.
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