4.1. Therapeutic indications

Because of the risk of prolonged, disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse drug reactions (see section 4.4 and section 4.8) this product must only be prescribed when other antibiotics that are commonly recommended for the infection are inappropriate. This applies to all indications listed below. Situations where other antibiotics are considered to be inappropriate are where:

• there is resistance to other first-line antibiotics recommended for the infection;

• other first-line antibiotics are contraindicated in an individual patient;

• other first-line antibiotics have caused side effects requiring treatment to be stopped;

• treatment with other first-line antibiotics has failed.

The Ciproxin 250 mg/5 mL oral suspension is indicated for the treatment of the following infections (see sections 4.4 and 5.1). Special attention should be paid to available information on resistance to ciprofloxacin before commencing therapy.

Consideration should be given to official guidance on the appropriate use of antibacterial agents.

Adults

• Lower respiratory tract infections due to Gram-negative bacteria

- exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

- broncho-pulmonary infections in cystic fibrosis or in bronchiectasis

- pneumonia

• Chronic suppurative otitis media

• Acute exacerbation of chronic sinusitis especially if these are caused by Gram-negative bacteria

• Urinary tract infections

- Uncomplicated acute cystitis.

- Acute pyelonephritis

- Complicated urinary tract infections

- Bacterial prostatitis

• Genital tract infections

- gonococcal uretritis and cervicitis due to susceptible Neisseria gonorrhoeae

- epididymo-orchitis including cases due to susceptible Neisseria gonorrhoeae

- pelvic inflammatory disease including cases due to susceptible Neisseria gonorrhoeae

• Infections of the gastro-intestinal tract (e.g. travellers' diarrhoea)

• Intra-abdominal infections

• Infections of the skin and soft tissue caused by Gram-negative bacteria

• Malignant external otitis

• Infections of the bones and joints

• Prophylaxis of invasive infections due to Neisseria meningitidis

• Inhalation anthrax (post-exposure prophylaxis and curative treatment)

Ciprofloxacin may be used in the management of neutropenic patients with fever that is suspected to be due to a bacterial infection.

Children and adolescents

• Broncho-pulmonary infections due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with cystic fibrosis

• Complicated urinary tract infections and acute pyelonephritis

• Inhalation anthrax (post-exposure prophylaxis and curative treatment)

Ciprofloxacin may also be used to treat severe infections in children and adolescents when this is considered to be necessary.

Treatment should be initiated only by physicians who are experienced in the treatment of cystic fibrosis and/or severe infections in children and adolescents (see sections 4.4 and 5.1).

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Posology

The dosage is determined by the indication, the severity and the site of the infection, the susceptibility to ciprofloxacin of the causative organism(s), the renal function of the patient and, in children and adolescents the body weight.

The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the illness and on the clinical and bacteriological course.

Treatment of infections due to certain bacteria (e.g. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter or Staphylococci) may require higher ciprofloxacin doses and co-administration with other appropriate antibacterial agents.

Treatment of some infections (e.g. pelvic inflammatory disease, intra-abdominal infections, infections in neutropenic patients and infections of bones and joints) may require co-administration with other appropriate antibacterial agents depending on the pathogens involved.

Adults

Indications

Daily dose in mg

Daily dose in mL

(Number of 5‑mL measuring spoonfuls)

Total duration of treatment (potentially including initial parenteral treatment with ciprofloxacin)

Infections of the lower respiratory tract

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

7 to 14 days

Infections of the upper respiratory tract

Acute exacerbation of chronic sinusitis

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

7 to 14 days

Chronic suppurative otitis media

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

7 to 14 days

Malignant external otitis

750 mg twice daily

15 mL twice daily

(three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

28 days up to 3 months

Urinary tract infections

(see section 4.4)

Uncomplicated acute cystitis

250 mg twice daily to 500 mg twice daily

5-mL twice daily to 10 mL twice daily

(one 5-mL measuring spoonful twice daily up to two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

3 days

In pre-menopausal women, 500 mg single dose may be used corresponding to 10 mL single dose = two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls as a single dose

Complicated cystitis, Acute pyelonephritis

500 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

7 days

Complicated pyelonephritis

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15-mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

at least 10 days, it can be continued for longer than 21 days in some specific circumstances (such as abscesses)

Bacterial prostatitis

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15-mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

2 to 4 weeks (acute) to 4 to 6 weeks (chronic)

Genital tract infections

Gonococcal uretritis and cervicitis due to susceptible Neisseria gonorrhoeae

500 mg as a single dose

10 mL as a single dose corresponding to two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls as a single dose

1 day (single dose)

Epididymo-orchitis and pelvic inflammatory diseases including cases due to susceptible Neisseria gonorrhoeae

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15-mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

at least 14 days

Infections of the gastro-intestinal tract and intra-abdominal infections

Diarrhoea caused by bacterial pathogens including Shigella spp. other than Shigella dysenteriae type 1 and empirical treatment of severe travellers' diarrhoea

500 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

1 day

Diarrhoea caused by Shigella dysenteriae type 1

500 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

5 days

Diarrhoea caused by Vibrio cholerae

500 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

3 days

Typhoid fever

500 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

7 days

Intra-abdominal infections due to Gram-negative bacteria

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15-mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

5 to 14 days

Infections of the skin and soft tissue caused by Gram-negative bacteria

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15-mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

7 to 14 days

Bone and joint infections

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15-mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

max. of 3 months

Neutropenic patients with fever that is suspected to be due to a bacterial infection.

Ciprofloxacin should be co-administered with appropriate antibacterial agent(s) in accordance to official guidance.

500 mg twice daily to 750 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily to 15-mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily up to three 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

Therapy should be continued over the entire period of neutropenia

Prophylaxis of invasive infections due to Neisseria meningitidis

500 mg as a single dose

10 mL as a single dose corresponding to two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls as a single dose

1 day (single dose)

Inhalation anthrax post-exposure prophylaxis and curative treatment for persons able to receive treatment by oral route when clinically appropriate.

Drug administration should begin as soon as possible after suspected or confirmed exposure.

500 mg twice daily

10 mL twice daily

(two 5-mL measuring spoonfuls twice daily)

60 days from the confirmation of Bacillus anthracis exposure

Paediatric population

Indications

Daily dose in mg and in mL

For practical guidance on the number of measuring spoonfuls, refer to table A below

Total duration of treatment (potentially including initial parenteral treatment with ciprofloxacin)

Cystic fibrosis

20 mg/kg body weight twice daily with a maximum of 750 mg per dose, corresponding to a 0.4 mL/kg body weight twice daily with a maximum of 15-mL per each of the two daily administrations for the 250mg/5mL suspension

10 to 14 days

Complicated urinary tract infections and acute pyelonephritis

10 mg/kg body weight twice daily to 20 mg/kg body weight twice daily with a maximum of 750 mg per dose, corresponding to a 0.2 mL/kg body weight twice daily to 0.4 mL/kg body weight twice daily with a maximum of 15-mL per each of the two daily administrations for the 250mg/5mL suspension

10 to 21 days

Inhalation anthrax post-exposure prophylaxis and curative treatment for persons able to receive treatment by oral route when clinically appropriate. Drug administration should begin as soon as possible after suspected or confirmed exposure.

10 mg/kg body weight twice daily to 15 mg/kg body weight twice daily with a maximum of 500 mg per dose, corresponding to a 0.2 mL/kg body weight twice daily to 0.3 mL/kg body weight twice daily with a maximum of 10 mL per each of the two daily administrations for the 250mg/5mL suspension

60 days from the confirmation of Bacillus anthracis exposure

Other severe infections

20 mg/kg body weight twice daily with a maximum of 750 mg per dose, corresponding to a 0.4 mL/kg body weight twice daily with a maximum of 15-mL per each of the two daily administrations for the 250mg/5mL suspension

According to the type of infections

Table A: 250 mg/5 mL oral suspension – Practical guidance on the number of measuring spoonfuls to be administered twice daily (every 12 hours)

250 mg/5 mL oral suspension

½ spoon = 125 mg ; 1 spoon = 250 mg ; 1 spoon + ½ spoon = 375 mg ; 2 spoons = 500 mg ; 2 spoons + ½ spoon = 625 mg ; 3 spoons = 750 mg (max dose)

Body weight (kg)

Practical guidance for each of the two daily administrations of Ciproxin oral suspension per recommended dose in mg/kg bodyweight and indications as stated above

10 mg/kg

20 mg/kg

9-10 kg

½ spoon

1 spoon*

11-15 kg

½ spoon

1 spoon

16-20 kg

1 spoon

1 spoon + ½ spoon

21-25 kg

1 spoon

2 spoons

26-28 kg

1 spoon

2 spoons + ½ spoon

29-31 kg

1 spoon + ½ spoon

2 spoons + ½ spoon

32-40 kg

1 spoon + ½ spoon

3 spoons

41-51 kg

2 spoons

3 spoons

52-61 kg

2 spoons + ½ spoon

3 spoons

62 kg and above

3 spoons

3 spoons

* The administration of number of measuring spoonfuls leads to an actual dose more than 20 % above the recommended maximum dose per bodyweight

Elderly patients

Elderly patients should receive a dose selected according to the severity of the infection and the patient's creatinine clearance.

Patients with renal and hepatic impairment

Recommended starting and maintenance doses for patients with impaired renal function:

Creatinine Clearance[mL/min/ 1.73 m²]

Serum Creatinine[µmol/L]

Oral Dose[mg]

> 60

< 124

See Usual Dosage.

30‑60

124 to 168

250‑500 mg every 12 h

< 30

> 169

250‑500 mg every 24 h

Patients on haemodialysis

> 169

250‑500 mg every 24 h (after dialysis)

Patients on peritoneal dialysis

> 169

250‑500 mg every 24 h

In patients with impaired liver function no dose adjustment is required.

Dosing in children with impaired renal and/or hepatic function has not been studied.

Method of administration

Oral suspension can be taken independent of mealtimes.

If a dose is missed, it should be taken anytime but not later than 6 hours prior to the next scheduled dose. If less than 6 hours remain before the next dose, the missed dose should not be taken and treatment should be continued as prescribed with the next scheduled dose. Double doses should not be taken to compensate for a missed dose.

If taken on an empty stomach, the active substance is absorbed more rapidly.

Ciprofloxacin oral suspension can be taken during meals containing dairy products or mineral-fortified drinks. However,ciprofloxacin oral suspension should not be administered concurrently with dairy products (e.g. milk, yoghurt) or mineral-fortified fruit juice (e.g. calcium-fortified orange juice) when these products or drinks are taken alone outside meals. Nevertheless ciprofloxacin oral suspension could be administered either 1-2 hours before or at least 4 hours after dairy products or mineral-fortified drinks when these products and drinks are taken alone outside meals, such as recommended for drugs containing calcium (see section 4.5, paragraph Food and Dairy Products).

In severe cases or if the patient is unable to take oral suspension (e.g. patients on enteral nutrition), it is recommended to commence therapy with intravenous ciprofloxacin until a switch to oral administration is possible.

For instructions on reconstitution of the product before administration, see section 6.6.

Appearance of the reconstituted product:

The reconstituted product is a white to slightly yellowish suspension with strawberry odour. Occasionally the suspension may contain yellow-orange droplets and globular particles.

½ measuring spoonful (approx 2.5 mL suspension) provides approx. 125 mg ciprofloxacin.

1 measuring spoonful (approx 5.0 mL suspension) provides approx. 250 mg ciprofloxacin.

Always use the graduated measuring spoon to obtain the dose for administering the suspension.

No additions should be made to the mixed final ciprofloxacin suspension.

4.3. Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to the active substance, to other quinolones or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

• Concomitant administration of ciprofloxacin and tizanidine (see section 4.5).

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

The use of Ciprofloxacin should be avoided in patients who have experienced serious adverse reactions in the past when using quinolone or fluoroquinolone containing products (see section 4.8). Treatment of these patients with Ciprofloxacin should only be initiated in the absence of alternative treatment options and after careful benefit/risk assessment (see also section 4.3).

Prolonged, disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse drug reactions

Cases of prolonged (continuing for months or years), disabling and potentially irreversible serious adverse drug reactions affecting different, sometimes multiple, body systems (including musculoskeletal, nervous, psychiatric and senses) have been reported in patients receiving quinolones and fluoroquinolones irrespective of their age and pre-existing risk factors. There are no pharmacological treatments established to be effective treatments of the symptoms of long lasting or disabling side effects associated with fluoroquinolones. Ciprofloxacin should be discontinued immediately at the first signs or symptoms of any serious adverse reaction and patients should be advised to contact their prescriber for advice, so that symptoms can be appropriately investigated and to avoid further exposure which could potentially worsen adverse reactions.

Severe infections and mixed infections with Gram-positive and anaerobic pathogens

Ciprofloxacin monotherapy is not suited for treatment of severe infections and infections that might be due to Gram-positive or anaerobic pathogens. In such infections ciprofloxacin must be co-administered with other appropriate antibacterial agents.

Streptococcal Infections (including Streptococcus pneumoniae)

Ciprofloxacin is not recommended for the treatment of streptococcal infections due to inadequate efficacy.

Genital tract infections

Gonococcal uretritis, cervicitis, epididymo-orchitis and pelvic inflammatory diseases may be caused by fluoroquinolone-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates.

Therefore, ciprofloxacin should be administered for the treatment of gonococcal uretritis or cervicitis only if ciprofloxacin-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae can be excluded.

For epididymo-orchitis and pelvic inflammatory diseases, empirical ciprofloxacin should only be considered in combination with another appropriate antibacterial agent (e.g. a cephalosporin) unless ciprofloxacin-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae can be excluded. If clinical improvement is not achieved after 3 days of treatment, the therapy should be reconsidered.

Urinary tract infections

Resistance to fluoroquinolones of Escherichia coli – the most common pathogen involved in urinary tract infections – varies across the European Union. Prescribers are advised to take into account the local prevalence of resistance in Escherichia coli to fluoroquinolones.

The single dose of ciprofloxacin that may be used in uncomplicated cystitis in pre-menopausal women is expected to be associated with lower efficacy than the longer treatment duration. This is all the more to be taken into account as regards the increasing resistance level of Escherichia coli to quinolones.

Intra-abdominal infections

There are limited data on the efficacy of ciprofloxacin in the treatment of post-surgical intra-abdominal infections.

Travellers' diarrhoea

The choice of ciprofloxacin should take into account information on resistance to ciprofloxacin in relevant pathogens in the countries visited.

Infections of the bones and joints

Ciprofloxacin should be used in combination with other antimicrobial agents depending on the results of the microbiological documentation.

Inhalational anthrax

Use in humans is based on in-vitro susceptibility data and on animal experimental data together with limited human data. Treating physicians should refer to national and /or international consensus documents regarding the treatment of anthrax.

Paediatric population

The use of ciprofloxacin in children and adolescents should follow available official guidance. Ciprofloxacin treatment should be initiated only by physicians who are experienced in the treatment of cystic fibrosis and/or severe infections in children and adolescents.

Ciprofloxacin has been shown to cause arthropathy in weight-bearing joints of immature animals. Safety data from a randomised double-blind study on ciprofloxacin use in children (ciprofloxacin: n=335, mean age = 6.3 years; comparators: n=349, mean age = 6.2 years; age range = 1 to 17 years) revealed an incidence of suspected drug-related arthropathy (discerned from joint-related clinical signs and symptoms) by Day +42 of 7.2% and 4.6%. Respectively, an incidence of drug-related arthropathy by 1-year follow-up was 9.0% and 5.7%. The increase of suspected drug-related arthropathy cases over time was not statistically significant between groups. Treatment should be initiated only after a careful benefit/risk evaluation, due to possible adverse events related to joints and/or surrounding tissue (see section 4.8).

Broncho-pulmonary infections in cystic fibrosis

Clinical trials have included children and adolescents aged 5‑17 years. More limited experience is available in treating children between 1 and 5 years of age.

Complicated urinary tract infections and pyelonephritis

Ciprofloxacin treatment of urinary tract infections should be considered when other treatments cannot be used, and should be based on the results of the microbiological documentation.

Clinical trials have included children and adolescents aged 1‑17 years.

Other specific severe infections

Other severe infections in accordance with official guidance, or after careful benefit-risk evaluation when other treatments cannot be used, or after failure to conventional therapy and when the microbiological documentation can justify a ciprofloxacin use.

The use of ciprofloxacin for specific severe infections other than those mentioned above has not been evaluated in clinical trials and the clinical experience is limited. Consequently, caution is advised when treating patients with these infections.

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity and allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions, may occur following a single dose (see section 4.8) and may be life-threatening. If such reaction occurs, ciprofloxacin should be discontinued and an adequate medical treatment is required.

Tendinitis and tendon rupture

Ciprofloxacin should generally not be used in patients with a history of tendon disease/disorder related to quinolone treatment. Nevertheless, in very rare instances, after microbiological documentation of the causative organism and evaluation of the risk/benefit balance, ciprofloxacin may be prescribed to these patients for the treatment of certain severe infections, particularly in the event of failure of the standard therapy or bacterial resistance, where the microbiological data may justify the use of ciprofloxacin.

Tendinitis and tendon rupture (especially but not limited to Achilles tendon), sometimes bilateral, may occur as early as within 48 hours of starting treatment with quinolones and fluoroquinolones and have been reported to occur even up to several months after discontinuation of treatment (see section 4.8). The risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture is increased in older patients, patients with renal impairment, patients with solid organ transplants, and those treated concurrently with corticosteroids. Therefore, concomitant use of corticosteroids should be avoided.

At the first sign of tendinitis (e.g. painful swelling, inflammation) the treatment with Ciprofloxacin should be discontinued and alternative treatment should be considered. The affected limb(s) should be appropriately treated (e.g. immobilisation). Corticosteroids should not be used if signs of tendinopathy occur.

Patients with myasthenia gravis

Ciprofloxacin should be used with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis, because symptoms can be exacerbated (see section 4.8).

Aortic aneurysm and dissection, and heart valve regurgitation/incompetence

Epidemiologic studies report an increased risk of aortic aneurysm and dissection, particularly in elderly patients, and of aortic and mitral valve regurgitation after intake of fluoroquinolones. Cases of aortic aneurysm and dissection, sometimes complicated by rupture (including fatal ones), and of regurgitation/incompetence of any of the heart valves have been reported in patients receiving fluoroquinolones (see section 4.8).

Therefore, fluoroquinolones should only be used after careful benefit-risk assessment and after consideration of other therapeutic options in patients with positive family history of aneurysm disease or congenital heart valve disease, or in patients diagnosed with pre-existing aortic aneurysm and/or dissection or heart valve disease, or in presence of other risk factors or conditions predisposing:

- for both aortic aneurysm and dissection and heart valve regurgitation/incompetence (e.g. connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Turner syndrome, Behcet´s disease, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis) or additionally

- for aortic aneurysm and dissection (e.g. vascular disorders such as Takayasu arteritis or giant cell arteritis, or known atherosclerosis, or Sjögren's syndrome) or additionally

- for heart valve regurgitation/incompetence (e.g. infective endocarditis).

The risk of aortic aneurysm and dissection, and their rupture may also be increased in patients treated concurrently with systemic corticosteroids.

In case of sudden abdominal, chest or back pain, patients should be advised to immediately consult a physician in an emergency department.Patients should be advised to seek immediate medical attention in case of acute dyspnoea, new onset of heart palpitations, or development of oedema of the abdomen or lower extremities.

Vision disorders

If vision becomes impaired or any effects on the eyes are experienced, an eye specialist should be consulted immediately.

Photosensitivity

Ciprofloxacin has been shown to cause photosensitivity reactions. Patients taking ciprofloxacin should be advised to avoid direct exposure to either extensive sunlight or UV irradiation during treatment (see section 4.8).

Seizures

Ciprofloxacin like other quinolones are known to trigger seizures or lower the seizure threshold. Cases of status epilepticus have been reported. Ciprofloxacin should be used with caution in patients with CNS disorders which may be predisposed to seizure and concomitant use of drugs known to trigger seizures or lower the seizure threshold should be avoided (see section 4.5). If seizures occur ciprofloxacin should be discontinued (see section 4.8).

Peripheral neuropathy

Cases of sensory or sensorimotor polyneuropathy resulting in paraesthesia, hypaesthesia, dysesthesia, or weakness have been reported in patients receiving quinolones and fluoroquinolones. Patients under treatment with Ciprofloxacin should be advised to inform their doctor prior to continuing treatment if symptoms of neuropathy such as pain, burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness develop in order to prevent the development of potentially irreversible condition (see section 4.8).

Psychiatric reactions

Psychiatric reactions may occur even after first administration of ciprofloxacin. In rare cases, depression or psychosis can progress to suicidal ideations/thoughts culminating in attempted suicide or completed suicide. If depression, psychotic reactions, suicide-related thoughts or behaviour occur, ciprofloxacin should be discontinued.

Cardiac disorders

Caution should be taken when using fluoroquinolones, including ciprofloxacin, in patients with known risk factors for prolongation of the QT interval such as, for example:

• congenital long QT syndrome

• concomitant use of drugs that are known to prolong the QT interval (e.g. Class IA and III anti-arrhythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides, antipsychotics)

• uncorrected electrolyte imbalance (e.g. hypokalaemia, hypomagnesaemia)

• cardiac disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, bradycardia)

Elderly patients and women may be more sensitive to QTc-prolonging medications. Therefore, caution should be taken when using fluoroquinolones, including ciprofloxacin, in these populations.

(See section 4.2 Elderly patients, section 4.5, section 4.8, section 4.9).

Dysglycaemia

As with all quinolones, disturbances in blood glucose, including both hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia have been reported (see section 4.8), usually in elderly diabetic patients receiving concomitant treatment with an oral hypoglycaemic agent (e.g. glibenclamide) or with insulin. Cases of hypoglycaemic coma have been reported. In diabetic patients, careful monitoring of blood glucose is recommended.

Gastrointestinal System

The occurrence of severe and persistent diarrhoea during or after treatment (including several weeks after treatment) may indicate an antibiotic-associated colitis (life-threatening with possible fatal outcome), requiring immediate treatment (see section 4.8). In such cases, ciprofloxacin should immediately be discontinued, and an appropriate therapy initiated. Anti-peristaltic drugs are contraindicated in this situation.

Renal and urinary system

Crystalluria related to the use of ciprofloxacin has been reported (see section 4.8). Patients receiving ciprofloxacin should be well hydrated and excessive alkalinity of the urine should be avoided.

Impaired renal function

Since ciprofloxacin is largely excreted unchanged via renal pathway dose adjustment is needed in patients with impaired renal function as described in section 4.2 to avoid an increase in adverse drug reactions due to accumulation of ciprofloxacin.

Hepatobiliary system

Cases of hepatic necrosis and life-threatening hepatic failure have been reported with ciprofloxacin (see section 4.8). In the event of any signs and symptoms of hepatic disease (such as anorexia, jaundice, dark urine, pruritus, or tender abdomen), treatment should be discontinued.

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency

Haemolytic reactions have been reported with ciprofloxacin in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Ciprofloxacin should be avoided in these patients unless the potential benefit is considered to outweigh the possible risk. In this case, potential occurrence of haemolysis should be monitored.

Resistance

During or following a course of treatment with ciprofloxacin bacteria that demonstrate resistance to ciprofloxacin may be isolated, with or without a clinically apparent superinfection. There may be a particular risk of selecting for ciprofloxacin-resistant bacteria during extended durations of treatment and when treating nosocomial infections and/or infections caused by Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas species.

Cytochrome P450

Ciprofloxacin inhibits CYP1A2 and thus may cause increased serum concentration of concomitantly administered substances metabolised by this enzyme (e.g. theophylline, clozapine, olanzapine, ropinirole, tizanidine, duloxetine, agomelatine). Therefore, patients taking these substances concomitantly with ciprofloxacin should be monitored closely for clinical signs of overdose, and determination of serum concentrations (e.g. of theophylline) may be necessary (see section 4.5). Co-administration of ciprofloxacin and tizanidine is contra-indicated.

Methotrexate

The concomitant use of ciprofloxacin with methotrexate is not recommended (see section 4.5).

Interaction with tests

The in-vitro activity of ciprofloxacin against Mycobacterium tuberculosis might give false negative bacteriological test results in specimens from patients currently taking ciprofloxacin.

Information about excipients

Benzyl alcohol

This medicine contains 19.6 mg benzyl alcohol in each bottle, which is equivalent to 19.6 mg/100 ml. Benzyl alcohol may cause allergic reactions.

Benzyl alcohol has been linked with the risk of severe side effects including breathing problems (called “gasping syndrome”) in young children and neonates. In young children (less than 3 years old), Ciproxin oral suspension should therefore not be used for longer than one week. In addition, due to the risk of accumulation and toxicity (metabolic acidosis), large amounts of benzyl alcohol should only be administered with caution and if absolutely necessary, especially in subjects with liver or kidney impairment, and is not recommended in pregnant and breast-feeding women (see section 4.6).

Sucrose Load

Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption or saccharose-isomaltase deficiency, should not take Ciproxin 250 mg/5 mL. As Ciproxin 250 mg/5 mL suspension contains 1.4 g sucrose per 5-mL measuring spoonful, this has to be taken into consideration in terms of daily intake. This is to be considered in patients with diabetes mellitus. Ciproxin 250 mg/5 mL can be harmful to teeth.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Effects of other products on ciprofloxacin:

Drugs known to prolong QT interval

Ciprofloxacin, like other fluoroquinolones, should be used with caution in patients receiving drugs known to prolong QT interval (e.g. Class IA and III anti-arrhythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides, antipsychotics) (see section 4.4).

Chelation Complex Formation

The simultaneous administration of ciprofloxacin (oral) and multivalent cation-containing drugs and mineral supplements (e.g. calcium, magnesium, aluminium, iron), polymeric phosphate binders (e.g. sevelamer or lanthanum carbonate), sucralfate or antacids, and highly buffered drugs (e.g. didanosine tablets) containing magnesium, aluminium, or calcium reduces the absorption of ciprofloxacin. Consequently, ciprofloxacin should be administered either 1‑2 hours before or at least 4 hours after these preparations. The restriction does not apply to antacids belonging to the class of H2 receptor blockers.

Food and Dairy Products

Dietary calcium as part of a meal does not significantly affect absorption of ciprofloxacin (oral). However, ciprofloxacin oral suspension administered concurrently with dairy products or mineral-fortified drinks (e.g. milk, yoghurt, calcium-fortified orange juice) when these products or drinks are taken alone outside meals, may reduce the absorption of ciprofloxacin.

Consequently, ciprofloxacin oral suspension can be taken during meals containing dairy products or mineral-fortified drinks.

The concurrent administration of dairy products or mineral-fortified drinks taken alone outside meals, with ciprofloxacin oral suspension should be avoided.

However, ciprofloxacin oral suspension could be administered either 1-2 hours before or at least 4 hours after dairy products or mineral-fortified drinks when these products and drinks are taken alone outside meals, such as recommended for drugs containing calcium (see section 4.2).

See also above paragraph Chelation Complex Formation.

Probenecid

Probenecid interferes with renal secretion of ciprofloxacin. Co-administration of probenecid and ciprofloxacin increases ciprofloxacin serum concentrations.

Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide accelerates the absorption of ciprofloxacin (oral) resulting in a shorter time to reach maximum plasma concentrations. No effect was seen on the bioavailability of ciprofloxacin.

Omeprazole

Concomitant administration of ciprofloxacin and omeprazole containing medicinal products results in a slight reduction of Cmax and AUC of ciprofloxacin.

Effects of ciprofloxacin on other medicinal products:

Tizanidine

Tizanidine must not be administered together with ciprofloxacin (see section 4.3). In a clinical study with healthy subjects, there was an increase in serum tizanidine concentration (Cmax increase: 7-fold, range: 4 to 21-fold; AUC increase: 10-fold, range: 6 to 24-fold) when given concomitantly with ciprofloxacin. Increased serum tizanidine concentration is associated with a potentiated hypotensive and sedative effect.

Methotrexate

Renal tubular transport of methotrexate may be inhibited by concomitant administration of ciprofloxacin, potentially leading to increased plasma levels of methotrexate and increased risk of methotrexate-associated toxic reactions. The concomitant use is not recommended (see section 4.4).

Theophylline

Concurrent administration of ciprofloxacin and theophylline can cause an undesirable increase in serum theophylline concentration. This can lead to theophylline-induced side effects that may rarely be life threatening or fatal. During the combination, serum theophylline concentrations should be checked and the theophylline dose reduced as necessary (see section 4.4).

Other xanthine derivatives

On concurrent administration of ciprofloxacin and caffeine or pentoxifylline (oxpentifylline), raised serum concentrations of these xanthine derivatives were reported.

Phenytoin

Simultaneous administration of ciprofloxacin and phenytoin may result in increased or reduced serum levels of phenytoin such that monitoring of drug levels is recommended.

Cyclosporin

A transient rise in the concentration of serum creatinine was observed when ciprofloxacin and cyclosporin containing medicinal products were administered simultaneously. Therefore, it is frequently (twice a week) necessary to control the serum creatinine concentrations in these patients.

Vitamin K antagonists

Simultaneous administration of ciprofloxacin with a vitamin K antagonist may augment its anti-coagulant effects. The risk may vary with the underlying infection, age and general status of the patient so that the contribution of ciprofloxacin to the increase in INR (international normalised ratio) is difficult to assess. The INR should be monitored frequently during and shortly after co-administration of ciprofloxacin with a vitamin K antagonist (e.g., warfarin, acenocoumarol, phenprocoumon, or fluindione).

Duloxetine

In clinical studies, it was demonstrated that concomitant use of duloxetine with strong inhibitors of the CYP450 1A2 isozyme such as fluvoxamine, may result in an increase of AUC and Cmax of duloxetine. Although no clinical data are available on a possible interaction with ciprofloxacin, similar effects can be expected upon concomitant administration (see section 4.4).

Ropinirole

It was shown in a clinical study that concomitant use of ropinirole with ciprofloxacin, a moderate inhibitor of the CYP450 1A2 isozyme, results in an increase of Cmax and AUC of ropinirole by 60% and 84%, respectively. Monitoring of ropinirole-related side effects and dose adjustment as appropriate is recommended during and shortly after co-administration with ciprofloxacin (see section 4.4).

Lidocaine

It was demonstrated in healthy subjects that concomitant use of lidocaine containing medicinal products with ciprofloxacin, a moderate inhibitor of CYP450 1A2 isozyme, reduces clearance of intravenous lidocaine by 22%. Although lidocaine treatment was well tolerated, a possible interaction with ciprofloxacin associated with side effects may occur upon concomitant administration.

Clozapine

Following concomitant administration of 250 mg ciprofloxacin with clozapine for 7 days, serum concentrations of clozapine and N-desmethylclozapine were increased by 29% and 31%, respectively. Clinical surveillance and appropriate adjustment of clozapine dosage during and shortly after co-administration with ciprofloxacin are advised (see section 4.4).

Sildenafil

Cmax and AUC of sildenafil were increased approximately twofold in healthy subjects after an oral dose of 50 mg given concomitantly with 500 mg ciprofloxacin. Therefore, caution should be used prescribing ciprofloxacin concomitantly with sildenafil taking into consideration the risks and the benefits.

Agomelatine

In clinical studies, it was demonstrated that fluvoxamine, as a strong inhibitor of the CYP450 1A2 isoenzyme, markedly inhibits the metabolism of agomelatine resulting in a 60-fold increase of agomelatine exposure. Although no clinical data are available for a possible interaction with ciprofloxacin, a moderate inhibitor of CYP450 1A2, similar effects can be expected upon concomitant administration (see 'Cytochrome P450' in section 4.4).

Zolpidem

Co-administration of ciprofloxacin may increase blood levels of zolpidem, concurrent use is not recommended.

Drugs known to trigger seizures or lower the seizure threshold

Ciprofloxacin can trigger seizures or lower the seizure threshold. Therefore, concomitant treatment of ciprofloxacin with drugs known to trigger seizures or lower the seizure threshold, such as but not limited to tramadol, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, should be avoided as this can increase the risk of seizures (including status epilepticus).

4.6. Pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

The data that are available on administration of ciprofloxacin to pregnant women indicates no malformative or feto/neonatal toxicity of ciprofloxacin. Animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to reproductive toxicity. In juvenile and prenatal animals exposed to quinolones, effects on immature cartilage have been observed, thus, it cannot be excluded that the drug could cause damage to articular cartilage in the human immature organism / foetus (see section 5.3). Additionally, this medicine contains benzyl alcohol, which may accumulate in the organism and cause toxicity in the foetus (see section 4.4).

Therefore, it is not recommended to use Ciproxin oral suspension during pregnancy.

Breast-feeding

Ciprofloxacin is excreted in breast milk. Due to the potential risk of articular damage, based on animal data, and because this medicine also contains benzyl alcohol, which may accumulate and a risk in the breastfed child cannot be excluded, Ciproxin oral suspension is not recommended for use during breast-feeding.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Due to its neurological effects, ciprofloxacin may affect reaction time. Thus, the ability to drive or to operate machinery may be impaired.

4.8. Undesirable effects

The most commonly reported adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are nausea and diarrhoea.

ADRs derived from clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance with Ciprofloxacin (oral, intravenous, and sequential therapy) sorted by categories of frequency are listed below. The frequency analysis takes into account data from both oral and intravenous administration of ciprofloxacin.

System Organ Class

Common

≥ 1/100 to < 1/10

Uncommon

≥ 1/1,000 to < 1/100

Rare

≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000

Very Rare

< 1/10,000

Frequency not known

(cannot be estimated from the available data)

Infections and Infestations

Mycotic superinfections

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Eosinophilia

Leukopenia

Anaemia

Neutropenia

Leukocytosis

Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytaemia

Haemolytic anaemia

Agranulocytosis

Pancytopenia (life-threatening)

Bone marrow depression (life-threatening)

Immune System Disorders

Allergic reaction

Allergic oedema / angiooedema

Anaphylactic reaction

Anaphylactic shock (life-threatening) (see section 4.4)

Serum sickness-like reaction

Endocrine disorders

Syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

Decreased appetite

Hyperglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia (see section 4.4)

Hypoglycaemic coma (see section 4.4)

Psychiatric Disorders*

Psychomotor hyperactivity / agitation

Confusion and disorientation

Anxiety reaction

Abnormal dreams

Depression (potentially culminating in suicidal ideations/thoughts or suicide attempts and completed suicide) (see section 4.4)

Hallucinations

Psychotic reactions (potentially culminating in suicidal ideations/thoughts or suicide attempts and completed suicide) (see section 4.4)

Mania, incl. hypomania

Nervous System Disorders*

Headache

Dizziness

Sleep disorders

Taste disorders

Par- and Dysaesthesia

Hypoaesthesia

Tremor

Seizures (including status epilepticus see section 4.4)

Vertigo

Migraine

Disturbed coordination

Gait disturbance

Olfactory nerve disorders

Intracranial hypertension and pseudotumor cerebri

Peripheral neuropathy and polyneuropathy (see section 4.4)

Eye Disorders*

Visual disturbances (e.g. diplopia)

Visual colour distortions

Ear and Labyrinth Disorders*

Tinnitus

Hearing loss / Hearing impaired

Cardiac Disorders**

Tachycardia

Ventricular arrhythmia, and torsades de pointes (reported predominantly in patients with risk factors for QT prolongation), ECG QT prolonged (see sections 4.4 and 4.9)

Vascular Disorders**

Vasodilatation

Hypotension

Syncope

Vasculitis

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders

Dyspnoea (including asthmatic condition)

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Nausea

Diarrhoea

Vomiting

Gastrointestinal and abdominal pains

Dyspepsia

Flatulence

Antibiotic associated colitis (very rarely with possible fatal outcome) (see section 4.4)

Pancreatitis

Hepatobiliary Disorders

Increase in transaminases

Increased bilirubin

Hepatic impairment

Cholestatic icterus

Hepatitis

Liver necrosis (very rarely progressing to life-threatening hepatic failure) (see section 4.4)

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Rash

Pruritus

Urticaria

Photosensitivity reactions (see section 4.4)

Petechiae

Erythema multiforme

Erythema nodosum

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (potentially life-threatening)

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (potentially life-threatening)

Acute Generalised Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP)

Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders*

Musculoskeletal pain (e.g. extremity pain, back pain, chest pain)

Arthralgia

Myalgia

Arthritis

Increased muscle tone and cramping

Tendinitis

Tendon rupture (predominantly Achilles tendon) (see section 4.4)

Muscular weakness

Exacerbation of symptoms of myasthenia gravis (see section 4.4)

Renal and Urinary Disorders

Renal impairment

Renal failure

Haematuria

Crystalluria (see section 4.4)

Tubulointerstitial nephritis

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions*

Asthenia

Fever

Oedema

Sweating (hyperhidrosis)

Investigations

Increase in blood alkaline phosphatase

Increased amylase

International normalised ratio increased (in patients treated with Vitamin K antagonists)

* Cases of prolonged (up to months or years), disabling and potentially irreversible serious drug reactions affecting several, sometimes multiple, system organ classes and senses (including reactions such as tendonitis, tendon rupture, arthralgia, pain in extremities, gait disturbance, neuropathies associated with paraesthesia, fatigue, psychiatric symptoms, memory impairment, and impairment of hearing, vision, taste and smell) have been reported in association with the use of quinolones and fluoroquinolones in some cases irrespective of pre-existing risk factors (see section 4.4). A range of psychiatric symptoms may occur as part of these side effects, which may include, but are not necessarily limited to, sleep disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, confusion, or depression. There are no pharmacological treatments established to be effective treatments of the symptoms of long lasting or disabling side effects associated with fluoroquinolones. The frequency of these prolonged, disabling and potentially irreversible serious drug reactions cannot be estimated with precision using available data, but the reporting incidence from adverse drug reaction reports indicates the frequency is at minimum between 1/1,000 and 1/10,000 (corresponding to the Rare frequency category).

** Cases of aortic aneurysm and dissection, sometimes complicated by rupture (including fatal ones), and of regurgitation/incompetence of any of the heart valves have been reported in patients receiving fluoroquinolones (see section 4.4).

Paediatric population

The incidence of arthropathy (arthralgia, arthritis), mentioned above, is referring to data collected in studies with adults. In children, arthropathy is reported to occur commonly (see section 4.4).

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme, Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

An overdose of 12 g has been reported to lead to mild symptoms of toxicity. An acute overdose of 16 g has been reported to cause acute renal failure.

Symptoms in overdose consist of dizziness, tremor, headache, tiredness, seizures, hallucinations, confusion, abdominal discomfort, renal and hepatic impairment as well as crystalluria and haematuria. Reversible renal toxicity has been reported.

Apart from routine emergency measures, , e.g. ventricular emptying followed by medical carbon, it is recommended to monitor renal function, including urinary pH and acidify, if required, to prevent crystalluria. Patients should be kept well hydrated. Calcium or magnesium containing antacids may theoretically reduce the absorption of ciprofloxacin in overdoses.

Only a small quantity of ciprofloxacin (<10%) is eliminated by haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.

In the event of overdose, symptomatic treatment should be implemented. ECG monitoring should be undertaken, because of the possibility of QT interval prolongation.