Ciprofloxacin is a prescription antibiotic drug that the federal government has approved for use as a treatment for anthrax exposure. You might receive a prescription for this antibiotic for common bacterial infections as well. Antibiotics frequently cause an adverse reaction or interact with specific foods, supplements and medications. Fish oil has no known interactions with ciprofloxacin, according to MedlinePlus. However, like ciprofloxacin, fish oil has adverse side effects, particularly in high doses. Talk to your doctor about taking fish oil while also taking ciprofloxacin.
Ciprofloxacin Interactions
Antacids and multivitamins are the sources of the main interactions for ciprofloxacin. Taking them at the same time might reduce the effectiveness of your prescribed dose because they interfere with your body’s absorption of the medication, according to the Arizona Center for Education and Research on Therapeutics. Supplements that contain calcium, iron and zinc have the same effect. To maintain the effectiveness of your prescribed ciprofloxacin treatment, take multivitamins and antacids six hours before or two hours after taking it.
Ciprofloxacin Side Effects
Antibiotics can inadvertently kill good bacteria along with the bacteria for which you are being treated. One common side effect of taking ciprofloxacin is gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea or loose stools. This symptom can occur while you are using the medication or months later.
Fish Oil Uses
Fish oil is a source of valuable essential fatty acids that your body can’t make. Taking fish oil capsules allows you to consume the nutrients found normally in fish without exposing yourself to the mercury and other toxins in the flesh of some fish. The standard dose for fish oil as a dietary supplement is up to 3 grams daily, according to Medline Plus. The safety of higher doses has not been determined.
Fish Oil Interactions
An important consideration for people who take fish oil is that it can decrease your body’s immune system responses, according to MedlinePlus. For people who take immunosuppressants, the elderly and patients with infections, this side effect is potentially serious. An adverse interaction between fish oil and blood thinners is also possible. Fish oil reduces your body’s blood clotting ability, which can lead to uncontrolled bleeding; nosebleeds are often a symptom. This is an especially important consideration when you take anticoagulants, such as aspirin, Coumadin or herbs such as garlic and ginger that reduce blood clotting. Taking fish oil can result in diarrhea and stomach distress. It also depletes vitamin E.
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