WARNINGS
Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
PRECAUTIONS
Tendinopathy And Tendon Rupture
Fluoroquinolones, including CIPRO IV, are associated with
an increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture in all ages. This adverse
reaction most frequently involves the Achilles tendon, and rupture of the
Achilles tendon may require surgical repair. Tendinitis and tendon rupture in
the rotator cuff (the shoulder), the hand, the biceps, the thumb, and other
tendon sites have also been reported. The risk of developing
fluoroquinolone-associated tendinitis and tendon rupture is further increased
in older patients usually over 60 years of age, in patients taking
corticosteroid drugs, and in patients with kidney, heart or lung transplants.
Factors, in addition to age and corticosteroid use, that may independently
increase the risk of tendon rupture include strenuous physical activity, renal
failure, and previous tendon disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. Tendinitis
and tendon rupture have also occurred in patients taking fluoroquinolones who
do not have the above risk factors. Inflammation and tendon rupture can occur,
sometimes bilaterally, even within the first 48 hours, during or after
completion of therapy; cases occurring up to several months after completion of
therapy have been reported. CIPRO IV should be used with caution in patients
with a history of tendon disorders. CIPRO IV should be discontinued if the
patient experiences pain, swelling, inflammation or rupture of a tendon. [See ADVERSE
REACTIONS]
Exacerbation Of Myasthenia Gravis
Fluoroquinolones, including CIPRO IV, have neuromuscular
blocking activity and may exacerbate muscle weakness in persons with myasthenia
gravis. Postmarketing serious adverse events, including deaths and requirement
for ventilatory support, have been associated with fluoroquinolone use in
persons with myasthenia gravis. Avoid CIPRO in patients with known history of
myasthenia gravis. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS]
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic)
reactions, some following the first dose, have been reported in patients
receiving quinolone therapy, including CIPRO IV. Some reactions were
accompanied by cardiovascular collapse, loss of consciousness, tingling,
pharyngeal or facial edema, dyspnea, urticaria, and itching. Only a few
patients had a history of hypersensitivity reactions. Serious anaphylactic
reactions require immediate emergency treatment with epinephrine and other
resuscitation measures, including oxygen, intravenous fluids, intravenous
antihistamines, corticosteroids, pressor amines, and airway management,
including intubation, as indicated. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Other Serious And Sometimes Fatal Reactions
Other serious and sometimes fatal events, some due to
hypersensitivity, and some due to uncertain etiology, have been reported in
patients receiving therapy with quinolones, including CIPRO IV. These events
may be severe and generally occur following the administration of multiple
doses. Clinical manifestations may include one or more of the following:
- Fever, rash, or severe dermatologic reactions (for
example, toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome);
- Vasculitis; arthralgia; myalgia; serum sickness;
- Allergic pneumonitis;
- Interstitial nephritis; acute renal insufficiency or
failure;
- Hepatitis; jaundice; acute hepatic necrosis or failure;
- Anemia, including hemolytic and aplastic;
thrombocytopenia, including thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura; leukopenia;
agranulocytosis; pancytopenia; and/or other hematologic abnormalities.
Discontinue CIPRO IV immediately at the first appearance
of a skin rash, jaundice, or any other sign of hypersensitivity and supportive
measures instituted [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Hepatotoxicity
Cases of severe hepatotoxicity, including hepatic
necrosis, life-threatening hepatic failure, and fatal events, have been
reported with CIPRO IV. Acute liver injury is rapid in onset (range 1–39 days),
and is often associated with hypersensitivity. The pattern of injury can be
hepatocellular, cholestatic or mixed. Most patients with fatal outcomes were
older than 55 years old. In the event of any signs and symptoms of hepatitis
(such as anorexia, jaundice, dark urine, pruritus, or tender abdomen),
discontinue treatment immediately.
There can be a temporary increase in transaminases,
alkaline phosphatase, or cholestatic jaundice, especially in patients with
previous liver damage, who are treated with CIPRO IV. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS]
Serious Adverse Reactions With Concomitant Theophylline
Serious and fatal reactions have been reported in
patients receiving concurrent administration of Intravenous CIPRO and
theophylline. These reactions have included cardiac arrest, seizure, status
epilepticus, and respiratory failure. Instances of nausea, vomiting, tremor,
irritability, or palpitation have also occurred.
Although similar serious adverse reactions have been
reported in patients receiving theophylline alone, the possibility that these
reactions may be potentiated by CIPRO cannot be eliminated. If concomitant use
cannot be avoided, monitor serum levels of theophylline and adjust dosage as
appropriate. [See DRUG INTERACTIONS]
Central Nervous System Effects
Convulsions, increased intracranial pressure (including
pseudotumor cerebri), and toxic psychosis have been reported in patients
receiving fluoroquinolones, including CIPRO IV. CIPRO IV may also cause central
nervous system (CNS) events including: nervousness, agitation, insomnia,
anxiety, nightmares, paranoia, dizziness, confusion, tremors, hallucinations,
depression, and, psychotic reactions have progressed to suicidal
ideations/thoughts and self-injurious behavior such as attempted or completed
suicide. These reactions may occur following the first dose. Advise patients
receiving CIPRO IV to inform their healthcare provider immediately if these
reactions occur, discontinue the drug, and institute appropriate care. CIPRO IV,
like other fluoroquinolones, is known to trigger seizures or lower the seizure
threshold. As with all fluoroquinolones, use CIPRO with caution in epileptic
patients and patients with known or suspected CNS disorders that may predispose
to seizures or lower the seizure threshold (for example, severe cerebral
arteriosclerosis, previous history of convulsion, reduced cerebral blood flow,
altered brain structure, or stroke), or in the presence of other risk factors
that may predispose to seizures or lower the seizure threshold (for example,
certain drug therapy, renal dysfunction). Use CIPRO IV when the benefits of
treatment exceed the risks, since these patients are endangered because of
possible undesirable CNS side effects. Cases of status epilepticus have been
reported. If seizures occur, discontinue CIPRO. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS and
DRUG INTERACTIONS]
Clostridium Difficile-Associated Diarrhea
Clostridium Difficile (C. difficile)-associated
diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents,
including CIPRO IV, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal
colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the
colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.
C. difficile produces toxins A and B which
contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing isolates of C.
difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can
be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be
considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial
use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur
over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.
If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial
use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued.
Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation,
antibacterial treatment of C. difficile, and institute surgical
evaluation as clinically indicated. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS]
Peripheral Neuropathy
Cases of sensory or sensorimotor axonal polyneuropathy
affecting small and/or large axons resulting in paresthesias, hypoesthesias,
dysesthesias and weakness have been reported in patients receiving
fluoroquinolones, including CIPRO IV. Symptoms may occur soon after initiation
of CIPRO IV and may be irreversible. Discontinue CIPRO IV immediately if the
patient experiences symptoms of peripheral neuropathy including pain, burning,
tingling, numbness, and/or weakness, or other alterations in sensations
including light touch, pain, temperature, position sense and vibratory
sensation, and/or motor strength in order to minimize the development of an
irreversible condition. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS]
Prolongation Of The QT Interval
Some fluoroquinolones, including CIPRO IV, have been
associated with prolongation of the QT interval on the electrocardiogram and
cases of arrhythmia. Cases of torsade de pointes have been reported during
postmarketing surveillance in patients receiving fluoroquinolones, including
CIPRO IV. Avoid CIPRO IV in patients with known prolongation of the QT
interval, risk factors for QT prolongation or torsade de pointes (for example,
congenital long QT syndrome , uncorrected electrolyte imbalance, such as
hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia and cardiac disease, such as heart failure,
myocardial infarction, or bradycardia), and patients receiving Class IA
antiarrhythmic agents (quinidine, procainamide), or Class III antiarrhythmic
agents (amiodarone, sotalol), tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides, and
antipsychotics. Elderly patients may also be more susceptible to
drug-associated effects on the QT interval. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS and Use
in Specific Populations]
Musculoskeletal Disorders In Pediatric Patients And Arthropathic
Effects In Animals
CIPRO IV is indicated in pediatric patients (less than 18
years of age) only for cUTI, prevention of inhalational anthrax (post
exposure), and plague [see INDICATIONS AND USAGE]. An increased
incidence of adverse reactions compared to controls, including reactions
related to joints and/or surrounding tissues, has been observed [see ADVERSE
REACTIONS].
In pre-clinical studies, oral administration of CIPRO IV
caused lameness in immature dogs. Histopathological examination of the
weight-bearing joints of these dogs revealed permanent lesions of the
cartilage. Related quinolone-class drugs also produce erosions of cartilage of
weight-bearing joints and other signs of arthropathy in immature animals of
various species. [See Use in Specific Populations and Nonclinical
Toxicology]
Crystalluria
Crystals of ciprofloxacin have been observed rarely in
the urine of human subjects but more frequently in the urine of laboratory
animals, which is usually alkaline [see Nonclinical Toxicology]. Crystalluria
related to ciprofloxacin has been reported only rarely in humans because human
urine is usually acidic. Avoid alkalinity of the urine in patients receiving
CIPRO IV. Hydrate patients well to prevent the formation of highly concentrated
urine [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Photosensitivity/Phototoxicity
Moderate to severe photosensitivity/phototoxicity
reactions, the latter of which may manifest as exaggerated sunburn reactions
(for example, burning, erythema, exudation, vesicles, blistering, edema)
involving areas exposed to light (typically the face, “V” area of the neck,
extensor surfaces of the forearms, dorsa of the hands), can be associated with
the use of quinolones, including CIPRO IV, after sun or UV light exposure.
Therefore, avoid excessive exposure to these sources of light. Discontinue
CIPRO IV if phototoxicity occurs. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS]
Development Of Drug Resistant Bacteria
Prescribing CIPRO IV in the absence of a proven or
strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely
to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of
drug-resistant bacteria.
Potential Risks With Concomitant Use Of Drugs Metabolized
By Cytochrome P450 1A2 Enzymes
Ciprofloxacin is an inhibitor of the hepatic CYP1A2
enzyme pathway. Co-administration of CIPRO IV and other drugs primarily
metabolized by CYP1A2 (for example, theophylline, methylxanthines, caffeine,
tizanidine, ropinirole, clozapine, olanzapine) results in increased plasma
concentrations of the coadministered drug and could lead to clinically
significant pharmacodynamic adverse reactions of the coadministered drug. [See DRUG
INTERACTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]
Periodic Assessment Of Organ System Functions
As with any potent drug, periodic assessment of organ
system functions, including renal, hepatic, and hematopoietic function, is
advisable during prolonged therapy.
Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-Approved patient
labeling (Medication Guide)
Antibacterial Resistance
Inform patients that antibacterial drugs including CIPRO
IV should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral
infections (for example, the common cold). When CIPRO IV prescribed to treat a
bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel
better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly
as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may
(1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the
likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by
CIPRO IV or other antibacterial drugs in the future.
Administration
Inform patients to drink fluids liberally while taking
CIPRO to avoid formation of highly concentrated urine and crystal formation in
the urine.
Serious and Potentially Serious Adverse Reactions
Inform patients of the following serious adverse
reactions that have been associated with CIPRO or other fluoroquinolone use:
- Tendon Disorders Instruct patients to contact
their healthcare provider if they experience pain, swelling, or inflammation of
a tendon, or weakness or inability to use one of their joints; rest and refrain
from exercise; and discontinue CIPRO treatment. The risk of severe tendon
disorder with fluoroquinolones is higher in older patients usually over 60
years of age, in patients taking corticosteroid drugs, and in patients with
kidney, heart or lung transplants.
- Exacerbation of Myasthenia Gravis: Instruct
patients to inform their physician of any history of myasthenia gravis.
Instruct patients to notify their physician if they experience any symptoms of
muscle weakness, including respiratory difficulties.
- Hypersensitivity Reactions: Inform patients that
ciprofloxacin can cause hypersensitivity reactions, even following a single
dose, and to discontinue the drug at the first sign of a skin rash, hives or
other skin reactions, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty in swallowing or breathing,
any swelling suggesting angioedema (for example, swelling of the lips, tongue,
face, tightness of the throat, hoarseness), or other symptoms of an allergic
reaction.
- Hepatotoxicity: Inform patients that severe
hepatotoxicity (including acute hepatitis and fatal events) has been reported
in patients taking CIPRO IV. Instruct patients to inform their physician if
they experience any signs or symptoms of liver injury including: loss of
appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever, weakness, tiredness, right upper quadrant
tenderness, itching, yellowing of the skin and eyes, light colored bowel
movements or dark colored urine.
- Convulsions: Inform patients that convulsions have been
reported in patients receiving fluoroquinolones, including ciprofloxacin.
Instruct patients to notify their physician before taking this drug if they
have a history of convulsions.
- Neurologic Adverse Effects (for example,
dizziness, lightheadedness, increased intracranial pressure): Inform patients
that they should know how they react to CIPRO IV before they operate an
automobile or machinery or engage in other activities requiring mental
alertness and coordination. Instruct patients to notify their physician if
persistent headache with or without blurred vision occurs.
- Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common problem caused by
antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes
after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and
bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or
more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs,
Instruct patients to contact their physician as soon as possible.
- Peripheral Neuropathies: Inform patients that
peripheral neuropathies have been associated with ciprofloxacin use, symptoms
may occur soon after initiation of therapy and may be irreversible If symptoms
of peripheral neuropathy including pain, burning, tingling, numbness and/or weakness
develop, immediately discontinue CIPRO IV and contact their physician.
- Prolongation of the QT Interval: Instruct patients
to inform their physician of any personal or family history of QT prolongation
or proarrhythmic conditions such as hypokalemia, bradycardia, or recent
myocardial ischemia if they are taking any Class IA (quinidine, procainamide),
or Class III (amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic agents. Instruct patients to
notify their physician if they have any symptoms of prolongation of the QT
interval, including prolonged heart palpitations or a loss of consciousness.
- Musculoskeletal Disorders in Pediatric Patients: Instruct
parents to inform their child's physician if the child has a history of
joint-related problems before taking this drug. Inform parents of pediatric
patients to notify their child's physician of any joint-related problems that
occur during or following ciprofloxacin therapy [see WARNINGS AND
PRECAUTIONS and Use In Specific Populations].
- Tizanidine: Instruct patients not to use
ciprofloxacin if they are already taking tizanidine. Ciprofloxacin increases
the effects of tizanidine (Zanaflex®).
- Theophylline: Inform patients that ciprofloxacin
CIPRO IV may increase the effects of theophylline. Life-threatening CNS effects
and arrhythmias can occur. Advise the patients to immediately seek medical help
if they experience seizures, palpitations, or difficulty breathing.
- Caffeine: Inform patients that ciprofloxacin may
increase the effects of caffeine. There is a possibility of caffeine
accumulation when products containing caffeine are consumed while taking
quinolones.
- Photosensitivity/Phototoxicity: Inform patients
that photosensitivity/phototoxicity has been reported in patients receiving
fluoroquinolones. Inform patients to minimize or avoid exposure to natural or
artificial sunlight (tanning beds or UVA/B treatment) while taking quinolones.
If patients need to be outdoors while using quinolones, instruct them to wear
loose-fitting clothes that protect skin from sun exposure and discuss other sun
protection measures with their physician. If a sunburn-like reaction or skin
eruption occurs, instruct patients to contact their physician.
Drug Interactions Oral Antidiabetic Agents
Inform patients that hypoglycemia has been reported when
ciprofloxacin and oral antidiabetic agents were co-administered; if low blood
sugar occurs with CIPRO IV, instruct them toconsult their physician and that
their antibacterial medicine may need to be changed.
Anthrax and Plague Studies
Inform patients given CIPRO IV for this condition that
efficacy studies could not be conducted in humans for ethical and feasibility
reasons. Therefore, approval for these conditions was based on efficacy studies
conducted in animals.
Nonclinical Toxicology
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis,
Impairment Of Fertility
A total of 8 in vitro mutagenicity
tests have been conducted with ciprofloxacin, and the test results are listed
below:
- Salmonella/Microsome Test (Negative)
- E. coli DNA Repair Assay (Negative)
- Mouse Lymphoma Cell Forward Mutation Assay (Positive)
- Chinese Hamster V 79 Cell HGPRT Test (Negative)
- Syrian Hamster Embryo Cell Transformation Assay
(Negative)
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae Point Mutation Assay
(Negative)
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae Mitotic Crossover and
Gene Conversion Assay (Negative)
- Rat Hepatocyte DNA Repair Assay (Positive)
- Thus, 2 of the 8 tests were positive, but results of the
following 3 in vivo test systems gave negative results:
- Rat Hepatocyte DNA Repair Assay
- Micronucleus Test (Mice)
- Dominant Lethal Test (Mice)
Long-term carcinogenicity
studies in rats and mice resulted in no carcinogenic or tumorigenic effects due
to ciprofloxacin at daily oral dose levels up to 250 mg/kg and 750 mg/kg to
rats and mice, respectively (approximately 1.7-times and 2.5-times the highest
recommended therapeutic dose based upon body surface area, respectively).
Results from photo
co-carcinogenicity testing indicate that ciprofloxacin does not reduce the time
to appearance of UV-induced skin tumors as compared to vehicle control.
Hairless (Skh-1) mice were exposed to UVA light for 3.5 hours five times every
two weeks for up to 78 weeks while concurrently being administered
ciprofloxacin. The time to development of the first skin tumors was 50 weeks in
mice treated concomitantly with UVA and ciprofloxacin (mouse dose approximately
equal to maximum recommended human dose based upon body surface area), as opposed
to 34 weeks when animals were treated with both UVA and vehicle. The times to
development of skin tumors ranged from 16 to32 weeks in mice treated
concomitantly with UVA and other quinolones.9
In this model, mice treated
with ciprofloxacin alone did not develop skin or systemic tumors. There are no
data from similar models using pigmented mice and/or fully haired mice. The
clinical significance of these findings to humans is unknown.
Fertility studies performed in
rats at oral doses of ciprofloxacin up to 100 mg/kg (approximately 0.7-times
the highest recommended therapeutic dose based upon body surface area) revealed
no evidence of impairment.
Use In Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category C
There are no adequate and
well-controlled studies in pregnant women. CIPRO IV should not be used during
pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to both
fetus and mother. An expert review of published data on experiences with
ciprofloxacin use during pregnancy by TERIS–the Teratogen Information
System–concluded that therapeutic doses during pregnancy are unlikely to pose a
substantial teratogenic risk (quantity and quality of data=fair), but the data
are insufficient to state that there is no risk.2
A controlled prospective
observational study followed 200 women exposed to fluoroquinolones (52.5%
exposed to ciprofloxacin and 68% first trimester exposures) during gestation.3
In utero exposure to fluoroquinolones during embryogenesis was not associated
with increased risk of major malformations. The reported rates of major
congenital malformations were 2.2% for the fluoroquinolone group and 2.6% for
the control group (background incidence of major malformations is 1–5%). Rates
of spontaneous abortions, prematurity and low birth weight did not differ
between the groups and there were no clinically significant musculoskeletal
dysfunctions up to one year of age in the ciprofloxacin exposed children.
Another prospective follow-up
study reported on 549 pregnancies with fluoroquinolone exposure (93% first
trimester exposures).4 There were 70 ciprofloxacin exposures, all
within the first trimester. The malformation rates among live-born babies
exposed to ciprofloxacin and to fluoroquinolones overall were both within
background incidence ranges. No specific patterns of congenital abnormalities
were found. The study did not reveal any clear adverse reactions due to in
utero exposure to ciprofloxacin.
No differences in the rates of
prematurity, spontaneous abortions, or birth weight were seen in women exposed
to ciprofloxacin during pregnancy.2,3 However, these small
postmarketing epidemiology studies, of which most experience is from short
term, first trimester exposure, are insufficient to evaluate the risk for less
common defects or to permit reliable and definitive conclusions regarding the
safety of ciprofloxacin in pregnant women and their developing fetuses.
Reproduction studies have been
performed in rats and mice using oral doses up to 100 mg/kg (0.6 and 0.3 times
the maximum daily human dose based upon body surface area, respectively) and
have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus due to ciprofloxacin. In
rabbits, oral ciprofloxacin dose levels of 30 and 100 mg/kg (approximately
0.4-and 1.3-times the highest recommended therapeutic dose based upon body
surface area) produced gastrointestinal toxicity resulting in maternal weight
loss and an increased incidence of abortion, but no teratogenicity was observed
at either dose level. After intravenous administration of doses up to 20
mg/kg (approximately 0.3-times the highest recommended therapeutic dose based
upon body surface area), no maternal toxicity was produced and no embryotoxicity
or teratogenicity was observed.
Nursing Mothers
Ciprofloxacin is excreted in human milk. The amount of
ciprofloxacin absorbed by the nursing infant is unknown. Because of the
potential risk of serious adverse reactions (including articular damage) in
infants nursing from mothers taking CIPRO IV, a decision should be made whether
to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the
importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric Use
Although effective in clinical trials, CIPRO IV is not a
drug of first choice in the pediatric population due to an increased incidence
of adverse reactions compared to controls. Quinolones, including CIPRO IV,
cause arthropathy in juvenile animals [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and Nonclinical
Toxicology].
Complicated Urinary Tract Infection and Pyelonephritis
CIPRO IV is indicated for the treatment of cUTI and
pyelonephritis due to Escherichia coli in pediatric patients 1 to 17 years of
age. Although effective in clinical trials, CIPRO IV is not a drug of first
choice in the pediatric population due to an increased incidence of adverse
reactions compared to the controls, including events related to joints and/or
surrounding tissues. [See ADVERSE REACTIONS and Clinical Studies]
Inhalational Anthrax (Post-Exposure)
CIPRO IV is indicated in pediatric patients from birth to
17 years of age for inhalational anthrax (postexposure). The risk-benefit
assessment indicates that administration of ciprofloxacin to pediatric patients
is appropriate [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and Clinical Studies].
Plague
CIPRO IV is indicated in pediatric patients from birth to
17 years of age, for treatment of plague, including pneumonic and septicemic
plague due to Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis) and prophylaxis for plague. Efficacy
studies of CIPRO IV could not be conducted in humans with pneumonic plague for
feasibility reasons. Therefore, approval of this indication was based on an
efficacy study conducted in animals. The risk-benefit assessment indicates that
administration of CIPRO to pediatric patients is appropriate. [See INDICATIONS
AND USAGE, DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, and Clinical Studies]
Geriatric Use
Geriatric patients are at increased risk for developing
severe tendon disorders including tendon rupture when being treated with a
fluoroquinolone such as CIPRO IV. This risk is further increased in patients
receiving concomitant corticosteroid therapy. Tendinitis or tendon rupture can
involve the Achilles, hand, shoulder, or other tendon sites and can occur
during or after completion of therapy; cases occurring up to several months after
fluoroquinolone treatment have been reported. Caution should be used when
prescribing CIPRO IV to elderly patients especially those on corticosteroids.
Patients should be informed of this potential adverse reaction and advised to
discontinue CIPRO and contact their healthcare provider if any symptoms of
tendinitis or tendon rupture occur. [See BOXED WARNING, WARNINGS AND
PRECAUTIONS, and ADVERSE REACTIONS]
In a retrospective analysis of 23 multiple-dose controlled
clinical trials of CIPRO encompassing over 3500 ciprofloxacin-treated patients,
25% of patients were greater than or equal to 65 years of age and 10% were
greater than or equal to 75 years of age. No overall differences in safety or
effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and
other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses
between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older
individuals on any drug therapy cannot be ruled out. Ciprofloxacin is known to
be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions may
be greater in patients with impaired renal function. No alteration of dosage is
necessary for patients greater than 65 years of age with normal renal function.
However, since some older individuals experience reduced renal function by
virtue of their advanced age, care should be taken in dose selection for
elderly patients, and renal function monitoring may be useful in these
patients. [See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]
In general, elderly patients may be more susceptible to
drug-associated effects on the QT interval. Therefore, precaution should be
taken when using CIPRO IV with concomitant drugs that can result in
prolongation of the QT interval (for example, class IA or class III
antiarrhythmics) or in patients with risk factors for torsade de pointes (for
example, known QT prolongation, uncorrected hypokalemia). [See WARNINGS AND
PRECAUTIONS]
Renal Impairment
Ciprofloxacin is eliminated primarily by renal excretion;
however, the drug is also metabolized and partially cleared through the biliary
system of the liver and through the intestine. These alternative pathways of
drug elimination appear to compensate for the reduced renal excretion in
patients with renal impairment. Nonetheless, some modification of dosage is
recommended, particularly for patients with severe renal dysfunction. [See DOSAGE
AND ADMINISTRATION and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]
Hepatic Impairment
In preliminary studies in patients with stable chronic
liver cirrhosis, no significant changes in ciprofloxacin pharmacokinetics have
been observed. The pharmacokinetics of ciprofloxacin in patients with acute
hepatic insufficiency, have not been studied.
REFERENCES
2. Friedman J, Polifka J. Teratogenic effects of drugs: a
resource for clinicians (TERIS). Baltimore, Maryland: Johns Hopkins University
Press, 2000:149-195.
3. Loebstein R, Addis A, Ho E, et al. Pregnancy outcome
following gestational exposure to fluoroquinolones: a multicenter prospective
controlled study. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1998;42(6):1336-1339.
4. Schaefer C, Amoura-Elefant E, Vial T, et al. Pregnancy
outcome after prenatal quinolone exposure. Evaluation of a case registry of the
European network of teratology information services (ENTIS). Eur J Obstet
Gynecol Reprod Biol. 1996;69:83-89.