Antibiotic (Fluoroquinolone)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Ciprofloxacin is a strong antibiotic that works by killing bacteria and stopping them from multiplying in your body, helping your immune system clear infections faster.
Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, preventing DNA replication and transcription in susceptible gram-negative and gram-positive organisms. This leads to bacterial cell death and is effective against both dividing and non-dividing bacteria.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For most infections, adults take one 500 mg tablet twice a day (morning and night) for 7 to 14 days depending on the infection. For typhoid, the usual course is 500 mg twice daily for 10-14 days. Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water — you can take it with or without food, but avoid taking it with milk, yoghurt, or malt drinks as dairy reduces how well it works. Space your doses about 12 hours apart.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for it.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of ciprofloxacin even if you feel better after a few days — stopping early can make the bacteria resistant, and the infection may come back stronger. Do not buy ciprofloxacin from roadside vendors or unregistered pharmacies, as fake and expired drugs are common in Nigeria. Do not share your prescription with others — the fact that you and your neighbour have similar symptoms does not mean you need the same drug or dose.
Do not take ciprofloxacin with antacids like magnesium or aluminium-based ones (e.g. Gestid, Maalox) or multivitamins containing iron or zinc — take them at least 2 hours apart. Be cautious if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin, as ciprofloxacin can increase the risk of bleeding. Avoid caffeine in excess (coffee, energy drinks like Bullet or Fearless) as ciprofloxacin can make the effects of caffeine stronger and cause restlessness or fast heartbeat.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Ciprofloxacin with your other drugs?
Ciprofloxacin is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can harm the baby's developing bones and joints, so always consult your doctor for a safer alternative.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the tablets in their original pack and always store out of reach of children. Eye/ear drops should be kept in a cool place and discarded 28 days after opening.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Ciprofloxacin?
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