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Does Ciprofloxacin Cause Dizziness Or Disorientation?

Posted on Thu, 19 Jun 2014

Question: Hi,

I was prescribed ciprofloxacin at 10 tablets of 500mg each for quite a stomach or gastro upset and infection. I have only taken 7 tablets but have now experienced quite serious dizziness or disorientation, especially after 10 seconds after movement of the head.

Is this a common side-effect and is it ok to now stop taking the tablets without completing the full course? Also, is there any danger in being exposed to sunlight while on this medication?

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Deepak Kishore Kaltari (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Stop Ciprofloxacin

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcare-Magic
Greetings of the day

Dear Mr XXXXXXX

Ciprofloxacin is fluoroquinolone group of antibiotic.
By its GABA antagonist action on Central Nervous system it is known to cause headache, restlessness, dizziness, impairment of concentration and tremor.
It is advisable to stop Ciprofloxacin when one experiences such symptoms. Majority of gastric upset are self limiting and will resolve on its own.

Ciprofloxacin is not known to cause photosensitivity.

Do get back to me if you need any further assistance, will be glad to assist you.

Take care

Best Regards
Dr Deepak Kishore
MBBS, MS, MCH

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Deepak Kishore Kaltari (5 hours later)

Thanks Dr. XXXXXXX

I am just wondering how long I should expect the condition to return to normal after stopping the medication?

Could you provide a recommendation on a antibiotic to use in future for the same problem but with less side-effects, perhaps one which is quite weak. However, I am allergic to penicillin.

Thanks,
Regards.

Answered by Dr. Deepak Kishore Kaltari (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Azithromycin could be an alternative

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Sorry for late reply as was busy in operation theater. Apologies for it.
Normally after stopping of drug the side effects should start improving over next 12 hours. Ensure good intake of fluid and nutrition and get good sleep.
Alternative antibiotic which I could recommend is Azithromycin.

Wishing you a very happy and healthy life.

Take care
Best Regards
Dr Deepak

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Deepak Kishore Kaltari (6 minutes later)

Dear Dr. XXXXXXX

There has been no delay and thanks very much for your opinion.

Regards.

Answered by Dr. Deepak Kishore Kaltari (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Take care

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Take care
Best Regards
Deepak

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar