Ciprofloaxin 500mg Tablets

Ciprofloxacin for Traveller’s Diarrhoea

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. It works by preventing bacteria from multiplying and spreading.

For traveller’s diarrhoea, azithromycin is generally recommended as the first line antibiotic treatment. Ciprofloxacin was previously widely used for traveller’s diarrhoea, but increasing bacterial resistance and important safety considerations associated with fluoroquinolone antibiotics mean that it is now reserved for selected circumstances where other recommended antibiotics may not be appropriate. 

Should I order Azithromycin instead?

In most cases, yes. If you are looking for standby antibiotic treatment for traveller’s diarrhoea, we recommend ordering Azithromycin 500mg as the first line option.

However, every prescription is subject to an individual clinical assessment. Your consultation will be reviewed by one of our prescribers, who will determine which treatment is most appropriate and safe for you.

Your prescriber may change your treatment

If you order ciprofloxacin but our prescriber considers azithromycin to be more clinically appropriate, azithromycin may be supplied instead of ciprofloxacin.

Similarly, there may be circumstances where ciprofloxacin is considered appropriate because azithromycin or another recommended treatment is unsuitable for you.

The final treatment decision will always be based on your medical history, current medicines, allergies, travel destination and individual clinical circumstances.

Important information

Most cases of traveller’s diarrhoea are mild and resolve without antibiotics. Antibiotics should only be used when clinically appropriate, particularly because unnecessary use can contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

If you develop severe symptoms, blood or mucus in your stools, a temperature of 38°C or above, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, or symptoms that do not improve, you should seek medical attention.