Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Mitchell, RPh, Clinical Pharmacist — Updated April 2026
Cipro (Ciprofloxacin) Drug Profile
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Cipro, Cipro XL |
| Active Ingredient | Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride |
| Available Doses | 250mg, 500mg, 750mg |
| Manufacturer | Bayer (Generic available) |
Recommended Dosage Guidelines
Dosage in Canada is strictly regulated based on the site of infection and renal function. Below are the standard oral dosages for adult patients:
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTI): 250mg to 500mg every 12 hours for 3–7 days.
- Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis: 500mg every 12 hours for 28 days (First-line choice in Canada).
- Respiratory Infections (Pneumonia/Bronchitis): 500mg to 750mg every 12 hours for 7–14 days.
- Bone and Joint Infections: 500mg to 750mg every 12 hours for 4–6 weeks.
Critical Safety: What to avoid while taking Cipro?
- Dairy & Calcium: Do not take Cipro with milk, yogurt, or calcium-fortified juice. Calcium binds to the drug and prevents absorption. Take Cipro 2 hours before or 6 hours after dairy.
- Strenuous Exercise: Avoid heavy lifting or intense cardio. Cipro increases the risk of tendon rupture, particularly the Achilles tendon.
- Sunlight (Photosensitivity): Ciprofloxacin makes your skin highly sensitive to UV rays. Canadians are advised to use SPF 30+ even in winter.
- Specific Medications: Avoid taking antacids (aluminum/magnesium) or iron supplements within 6 hours of your dose.
How long does Cipro take to start working?
Most patients begin to see a reduction in fever and symptoms within 24 to 48 hours. However, for deep-seated infections like prostatitis or bone infections, it may take longer. You must finish the entire course to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the Canadian community.
Fast Delivery to All Canadian Provinces
We provide tracked, discreet shipping for Ciprofloxacin to all major cities and rural areas:
- Ontario & Quebec: 4–6 business days (Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal).
- Western Canada: 5–7 business days (Calgary, Vancouver, Edmonton).
- Maritimes & North: 7–9 business days.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Ciprofloxacin is a powerful medication and should only be used under the guidance of a licensed Canadian medical professional. Improper use contributes to antimicrobial resistance.
