ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg Tablets

What is ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg

ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg is a prescription antibiotic tablet containing 250 mg of ciprofloxacin, a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone. It is used to treat various bacterial infections, including:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia)
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Gastrointestinal infections (e.g., infectious diarrhea)
• Bone and joint infections
• Sexually transmitted infections (e.g., gonorrhea)

Ciprofloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial DNA replication enzymes, leading to bacterial cell death. It is effective against a wide range of Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria.

How to use ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg

To ensure optimal effectiveness and minimize side effects:

• Dosage: Take as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually every 12 hours.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water; do not chew or crush.
• With or Without Food: Can be taken with or without food, but avoid dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone, as they may reduce absorption.
• Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent crystalluria.
• Missed Dose: If missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it's close to the next dose. Do not double up.
• Duration: Complete the full course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve earlier.

Avoid taking antacids, multivitamins, or supplements containing calcium, magnesium, aluminum, or iron within 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking ciprofloxacin, as they can interfere with its absorption.

Mode of Action ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg

Ciprofloxacin exerts its antibacterial effects by:

• Inhibiting DNA Gyrase and Topoisomerase IV: These enzymes are essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination.
• Disrupting DNA Processes: Inhibition leads to DNA strand breaks and ultimately bacterial cell death.
• Bactericidal Activity: It kills bacteria rather than merely inhibiting their growth.

This mechanism makes ciprofloxacin effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, particularly Gram-negative organisms.

ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg Interactions ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg

Ciprofloxacin can interact with various medications:

• Tizanidine: Co-administration is contraindicated due to the risk of severe hypotension and sedation.
• Theophylline: May increase theophylline levels, leading to toxicity; monitor levels closely.
• Warfarin and Other Anticoagulants: May enhance anticoagulant effects; monitor INR levels.
• Antacids and Supplements: Products containing calcium, magnesium, aluminum, or iron can reduce ciprofloxacin absorption; separate administration times.
• NSAIDs: Concurrent use may increase the risk of CNS stimulation and seizures.
• Drugs Affecting QT Interval: Caution with antiarrhythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides, and antipsychotics due to potential QT prolongation.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Dosage of ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg

Dosage varies based on the type and severity of infection:

• Adults: 250 mg to 750 mg every 12 hours, depending on infection severity.
• Duration: Typically 3 to 14 days; some infections may require longer treatment.
• Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be necessary; consult your healthcare provider.
• Children: Not typically recommended; use only under specialist supervision.

Always follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions precisely.

Possible side effects of ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg

While ciprofloxacin is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects:

• Common: Nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and abdominal pain.
• Serious: Tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, CNS effects (e.g., seizures, tremors), QT prolongation, and hypersensitivity reactions.
• Others: Photosensitivity, liver enzyme elevations, and blood sugar disturbances.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like tendon pain, numbness, severe dizziness, or allergic reactions.

ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg Contraindications ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg

Do not use ciprofloxacin if you:

• Are allergic to ciprofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones.
• Are taking tizanidine.
• Have a history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use.
• Have myasthenia gravis, as it may exacerbate muscle weakness.

Use with caution in patients with epilepsy, renal impairment, or those at risk for QT prolongation.

Storage of ACTAVIS SIPROX 250mg

Proper storage ensures medication efficacy:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F).
• Moisture: Keep in a dry place; avoid storing in bathrooms.
• Light: Protect from light; store in the original packaging.
• Children and Pets: Keep out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Expiration: Do not use beyond the expiration date indicated on the packaging.

Dispose of any unused or expired medication according to local regulations or consult a pharmacist for guidance.