Question

Cipro-floxacin (Cipro) is a quinolone, which acts by inhibiting DNA gyrase. Which of the following statements about cipro-floxacin is true?A) It should not be used in children.B) Ciprofloxacin is teratogenic and is not approved for pregnant women or children. C) Antacids and other agents that contain divalent minerals can prevent cipro-floxacin from being absorbed.D) First generation quinolones have little efficacy against the gram-positive organisms that cause community-acquired pneumonia.

Answer 1

Answer:B). Ciprofloxacin is teratogenic and is not approved for pregnant women of children.

Explanation: This is because Ciprofloxacin is a Class C drug, I.e Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

It means that unless under certain circumstances where the potential benefits have been weighed to be more than the potential risks, the drug should not be used for pregnant women.

It has also been reported to be passed to the child from the mother during breastfeeding and may cause serious adverse risk including articular damage.

Ciprofloxacin is only approved for use in children for only two indications due to the risk of permanent injury to the musculoskeletal system. These two indications are:

• inhalational anthrax

• Complicated urinary tract infections.

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