Ofloxacin + Tinidazole
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for tinidazole and ofloxacin ofloxacin and ofloxacin and
Escherichia coli Infections , Infectious Arthritis ... show more
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
None
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Ciprofloxacin is used to treat bacterial infections like urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and skin infections. Tinidazole treats protozoal infections, which are caused by tiny organisms, such as giardiasis, an intestinal infection, and trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection. Both medicines are effective against certain bacterial infections, making them useful for mixed infections where both bacteria and protozoa are present.
Ciprofloxacin works by inhibiting an enzyme called DNA gyrase, which is essential for bacterial DNA replication, stopping bacteria from growing. Tinidazole damages the DNA of protozoa and certain bacteria, preventing them from multiplying. Both medicines target the DNA of harmful organisms, stopping their growth and spread, making them effective in treating various infections.
Ciprofloxacin is usually prescribed at 250 mg to 750 mg every 12 hours, depending on the infection. Tinidazole is typically given as a single dose of 2 grams or 500 mg to 2 grams per day. Both medicines are taken orally, tailored to the patient's needs and infection type. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and complete the full course of treatment.
Common side effects of ciprofloxacin include nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness. Tinidazole may cause a metallic taste, nausea, and upset stomach. Both medicines can cause more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, which include symptoms like rash, itching, or swelling. Ciprofloxacin can also lead to tendon damage, while tinidazole may cause nerve damage.
Ciprofloxacin carries warnings about the risk of tendon damage and should be used cautiously in people with tendon disorders. Tinidazole is contraindicated in individuals with blood disorders. Both medicines should be used with caution in people with liver or kidney problems. It's important to inform healthcare providers of any existing health conditions before starting these medications to avoid potential complications.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole work?
Ciprofloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes necessary for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination, leading to bacterial cell death. Tinidazole acts by entering the cells of protozoa and anaerobic bacteria, where it is reduced to reactive intermediates that damage DNA, leading to cell death. Both medications disrupt the DNA processes of their target organisms, but Ciprofloxacin is primarily used against bacteria, while Tinidazole targets both protozoa and certain bacteria. Their combined use can effectively treat mixed infections involving both bacteria and protozoa.
How effective is combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole?
Ciprofloxacin's effectiveness is supported by clinical trials and studies showing its ability to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, with improvements in symptoms and laboratory tests confirming bacterial eradication. Tinidazole's efficacy is demonstrated through studies showing high cure rates for protozoal infections like trichomoniasis and giardiasis, as well as bacterial vaginosis. Both medications have been proven effective in their respective domains, with Ciprofloxacin targeting bacteria and Tinidazole addressing protozoa and some bacteria. Their combined use is supported by evidence showing successful treatment of mixed infections.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole?
For Ciprofloxacin, the usual adult dose varies depending on the type and severity of the infection. It typically ranges from 250 mg to 750 mg taken twice daily. For Tinidazole, the usual adult dose is often a single 2 g dose, especially for conditions like trichomoniasis and giardiasis. However, for bacterial vaginosis, it can be 2 g once daily for 2 days or 1 g once daily for 5 days. Both medications should be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. The dosing for each drug is tailored to the specific infection being treated, with Ciprofloxacin often requiring multiple doses per day and Tinidazole sometimes being effective with a single dose.
How does one take combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole?
Both Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole should be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Ciprofloxacin should not be taken with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone, but can be taken with meals that include these items. Tinidazole users should avoid alcohol and products containing alcohol or propylene glycol during treatment and for 3 days after, as this can cause adverse reactions. It's important to follow these instructions to ensure the effectiveness of the medications and to reduce the risk of side effects.
For how long is combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole taken?
The duration of use for Ciprofloxacin typically ranges from 3 to 14 days, depending on the type and severity of the infection. For Tinidazole, the duration is usually shorter, often a single dose or up to 5 days, depending on the condition being treated. Both medications are used for short-term treatment to effectively clear infections. It's important to complete the full course of each medication as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent resistance.
How long does it take for combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole to work?
Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole both start working relatively quickly after administration. Ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic, begins to act soon after ingestion, targeting and killing bacteria that cause infections. Tinidazole, an antiprotozoal and antibacterial agent, also starts working shortly after intake, targeting protozoa and certain bacteria. Both medications are absorbed rapidly, with Ciprofloxacin reaching peak serum concentrations within 1 to 2 hours and Tinidazole within 1.6 hours. The quick onset of action for both drugs helps in promptly addressing the infections they are prescribed for, although the full therapeutic effect may take a few days to manifest as the body responds to the treatment.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole?
Common side effects of Ciprofloxacin include nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and headache. Significant adverse effects can include tendonitis, tendon rupture, and nerve damage. Tinidazole may cause a metallic taste, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue, with serious side effects including seizures and allergic reactions. Both medications can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and should be taken with food to minimize this. It's important to monitor for any severe reactions and consult a healthcare provider if they occur.
Can I take combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole with other prescription drugs?
Ciprofloxacin can interact with drugs like tizanidine, theophylline, and anticoagulants, potentially leading to increased side effects or altered drug levels. Tinidazole may interact with anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding, and should not be used with disulfiram due to potential psychotic reactions. Both medications can interact with alcohol, leading to adverse reactions, and should be used cautiously with other medications that affect the liver. It's important to inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken to manage these interactions effectively.
Can I take combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole if I am pregnant?
Ciprofloxacin is generally avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus, including effects on joint development. Tinidazole is also used with caution during pregnancy, as animal studies have shown potential risks, although human data is limited. Both medications should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Pregnant women should discuss with their healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits before starting treatment with these medications.
Can I take combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole while breastfeeding?
Ciprofloxacin is excreted in breast milk and may pose risks to the nursing infant, so caution is advised. Tinidazole is also present in breast milk and due to potential serious adverse reactions, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for 72 hours after the last dose. Both medications require careful consideration of the risks and benefits when used during lactation, and alternative treatments or temporary cessation of breastfeeding may be advised. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure the safety of the infant.
Who should avoid taking combination of Ciprofloxacin and Tinidazole?
Ciprofloxacin carries warnings for tendonitis, tendon rupture, and nerve damage, especially in older adults and those on corticosteroids. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to fluoroquinolones. Tinidazole has a warning for potential carcinogenicity and should be used cautiously in patients with blood dyscrasia. Both medications should be avoided in patients with known hypersensitivity to their respective drug classes. Alcohol should be avoided with Tinidazole due to the risk of adverse reactions. Patients should be informed of these risks and monitored for any severe side effects.
