Product Description
Ciprofloxacin 85721-33-1
AI Product Description
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Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic widely utilized in clinical settings to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Chemically, it possesses the molecular formula C17H18FN3O3 and is identified by the CAS registry number 85721-33-3. Its chemical structure features a fluorine atom at position 6 and a piperazine ring at position 7, which are critical for its potent antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. The drug functions by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, essential enzymes required for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. By interfering with these processes, ciprofloxacin effectively halts bacterial growth and leads to cell death.
Clinically, ciprofloxacin is prescribed for treating urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, and gastrointestinal infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It is also a first-line treatment for anthrax exposure and certain types of typhoid fever. Due to its excellent bioavailability, it can be administered orally or intravenously, making it highly versatile in managing both mild and severe infections. However, its use requires caution due to potential side effects, including tendonitis, tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and central nervous system disturbances. Furthermore, regulatory agencies have issued warnings regarding its use in children and pregnant women unless no safer alternatives exist, primarily due to concerns about cartilage damage. Resistance to ciprofloxacin has emerged in various bacterial strains, necessitating prudent prescribing practices to preserve its efficacy. Despite these challenges, it remains a cornerstone in antimicrobial therapy, offering a powerful solution for combating serious bacterial pathogens when used appropriately under medical supervision.