How risky is ciprofloxacin?
October 11, 2020 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Dr. David Meyer
Good day,
I am male and 37 years old. Due to an acute otitis media with severe pain, I sought treatment at an ENT outpatient clinic located in a hospital. Here, I was prescribed the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin in tablet and drop form for a week. After taking it for 1.5 days, I came across, rather accidentally, information that antibiotics from the fluoroquinolone group should only be used in exceptional cases due to the sometimes severe and irreversible side effects. I discontinued the intake and will switch to Amoxicillin in consultation with my general practitioner.
Is there really such a great danger associated with this group of fluoroquinolones? After my research, I already regret taking the 3 tablets.
Dear inquirer,
indeed, Ciprofloxacin would not be the antibiotic of choice for you if it was an empirical treatment (i.e. without prior culture results, which is rarely the case with otitis media) and you have no allergies. Amoxicillin with Clavulanic acid would be the first choice.
In general, you are right, and all doctors have received a so-called "Red Hand" letter, stating that Fluoroquinolones should be used at least "restrictively". Side effects can occur with all antibiotics. Especially in athletes or patients taking steroids (corticosteroids), Fluoroquinolones should not be prescribed.
If you do not have any relevant comorbidities, problems with tendons, kidney disease, etc., you do not need to worry. Your doctor must have had a reason, for example if it was not your first infection, or if Amoxicillin resistance is common in your area.
Simply talk to your doctor about it. You do not need to worry about taking Cipro tablets for a few days.
Best regards,
Dr. Meyer
Internal Medicine
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