Ciprofloxacin
CIPROFLOXACIN
Overview:
Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class. It is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections in the body, including those affecting the urinary tract, respiratory system, skin, gastrointestinal system, and more. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Classification: Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
Uses:Ciprofloxacin is used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is also used in the treatment of urinary tract infections, tonsils, sinus, nose, throat, female genital organ, skin and soft tissues and lungs (pneumonia).
How It Works:Ciprofloxacin works by stopping the action of a bacterial enzyme called DNA-gyrase. This prevents the bacterial cells from dividing and repairing, thereby killing them.
Dosage:As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Trouble sleeping
Headache
Precautions:
Ciprofloxacin should be used with care and only when prescribed by a healthcare professional. Individuals with a known allergy to fluoroquinolone antibiotics should avoid this medication. It poses a risk of tendon damage, particularly for older adults or those on steroid medications. People with seizure disorders, neurological issues, or mental health concerns should be cautious, as ciprofloxacin may aggravate these conditions. The drug can also increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it is important to minimize sun exposure and apply sunscreen during treatment. Those with heart conditions should be vigilant, as it can affect heart rhythm. Ciprofloxacin should not be consumed with milk, dairy products, or antacids, as these can interfere with its absorption. Patients with kidney issues may require a lower dosage, and it is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary. Completing the full course of treatment and not skipping doses is essential to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Disclaimer:This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosa
Metronidazole
METRONIDAZOLE
Overview
Metronidazole is an antibiotic effective against many infections caused by bacteria and parasites. It’s particularly useful in treating infections in the brain, reproductive system, gastro-intestinal tract, skin, vagina and other body parts.
Classification
Antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication
Uses
Metronidazole has been approved to treat:
Symptomatic trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection) in adults that has been confirmed by culture or wet smear test
Asymptomatic trichomoniasis in females when associated with cervical changes, and in asymptomatic sexual partners
Amebiasis (an infection caused by a parasite) in adults and children
Anaerobic bacterial infections (infections caused by bacteria that do not need oxygen to survive).
How it works
Metronidazole is thought to work by first diffusing into the cytoplasm of the anaerobic bacteria where it is then activated and reduced into a short-lived nitroso free radical which can interact with DNA, causing a loss of the helical DNA structure, strand breakage, and bacterial death.
Dosage
As directed by the physician
Precautions
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to metronidazole, secnidazole, or tinidazole, or if you:
Drank alcohol in the past 3 days
Consumed foods or medicines that contain propylene glycol in the past 3 days or
Took disulfiram (Antabuse) within the past 14 days
Have Cockayne Syndrome (a rare genetic disorder that affects growth and development).
Before taking metronidazole, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
Liver disease
Kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis)
A heart rhythm disorder
A stomach or intestinal disease such as Crohn’s disease
A blood cell disorder such as anemia (lack of red blood cells) or low white blood cell (WBC) counts
Medical problems that affect the brain or a nerve disorder
A yeast infection or a fungal infection anywhere in your body
A history of blood problems
Or take any medications, especially warfarin, lithium, busulfan, cimetidine, phenytoin, or phenobarbital
Side effects
Nausea, Vomiting, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Agitation, Back pain, Blindness, Blurred vision, Altered speech pattern, Confusion, Decreased vision, Depression, Dizziness, Impaired coordination, Seizure, Slurred speech
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage.
Terbinafine
TERBINAFINE
Overview
Terbinafine is a medicine that fights fungal infections. It helps clear up skin, hair, and nail infections caused by fungi (like ringworm, athlete’s foot, and nail fungus). It can be taken as a tablet or applied as a cream or gel.
Classification
Antifungal drug
Uses
Terbinafine is commonly used to treat:
Athlete’s foot (fungal infection between the toes)
Ringworm (a circular rash caused by fungus)
Jock itch (fungal rash in groin area)
Fungal nail infections (thick, discolored nails)
Yeast infections on the skin
How It Works
Terbinafine kills fungi by stopping them from making an important substance they need to survive (called ergosterol). Without it, the fungus can’t grow, and the infection fades away over time.
Dosage
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects
Common side effects
Headache
Upset stomach or diarrhea
Loss of taste or change in taste
Skin rash or itching
Feeling tired
Liver problems (yellow eyes/skin, dark urine)
Allergic reaction (swelling, trouble breathing)
Changes in mood or sleep
Precautions
Let your doctor know if you have liver or kidney issues before starting this medicine.
Regular blood tests may be needed during long-term use (especially tablets) to check liver function.
Don’t drink alcohol heavily while using it, as it can increase the risk of liver damage.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Always complete the full course, even if symptoms improve early, to fully clear the infection.
Avoid sharing personal items (like towels or nail clippers) to prevent spreading the infection.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
