Medicine Highlights
Uses | 1. To treat bacterial eye infection (bacterial conjunctivitis) 2. To treat open sore in the eye (corneal ulcers) |
Common Side Effects | 1. Burning or other discomfort of the eye 2. Crusting or crystals in corner of the eye |
Additional Information | Avoid consuming caffeinated products while taking this medicine. |
Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
How to Take This Medicine | The medicine should be put into the eye |
Ciprofloxacin Summary
Ciprofloxacin 0.3% drops is an antibiotic used to treat infections like bacterial conjuctivitis and corneal ulcer. Use the eye drops exactly as your doctor prescribes, at the same time each day and don’t stop the use of medication early, even if your eye feels better . Common side effects include burning or discomfort in the eye and crusting or crystals forming in the corner of the eye. More serious side effects may include dizziness, allergic reactions, or changes in urination or hearing. Let your doctor know if you have liver or kidney issues, are pregnant, or take other medications, as ciprofloxacin may not be right for everyone. Avoid consuming caffeinated products while taking it. Store it in a cool, dry place out of children’s reach. If too much is taken, symptoms like nausea or stomach pain can occur- get medical help right away.
Ciprofloxacin Uses
Ciprofloxacin 0.3% drops is an opthalmic medicine belonging to the class of fluoroquinolone medicines. It is used for the following indications:
- Bacterial eye infection (bacterial conjunctivitis)
- Open sore in the eye (corneal ulcers)
Directions for use
- Take ciprofloxacin exactly as prescribed by your doctor, regularly at the same time each day.
- Do not stop taking ciprofloxacin without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better.
- If you forget to take the medicine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one, then just skip it.
How Ciprofloxacin works
Ciprofloxacin is a powerful antibiotic that helps treat infections caused by harmful bacteria. It works by stopping the bacteria from making copies of their DNA, which they need to grow and spread. This medicine is especially effective against strong germs like E. coli, Salmonella, and Pseudomonas, which can cause serious illnesses.
Ciprofloxacin side effects
More Common
- Burning or other discomfort of the eye
- Crusting or crystals in corner of the eye
Less Common
- Bad taste following use in the eye
- Feeling of something in the eye
- Itching of the eye
- Redness of the lining of the eyelids
Safety Measures and Warning
📌 1. Allergy/Hypersensitivity
If you are allergic to this medicine, then inform your doctor about it before he prescribes it to you.
📌 2. Sensitivity to Sunlight
If your eyes are more sensitive to sunlight than usual, inform your doctor, as the medication may increase this sensitivity further.
Ciprofloxacin Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking ciprofloxacin 0.3% with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
Ciprofloxacin Interaction with Food Product
Avoid consuming caffeinated products with this medicine. Additionally, avoid alcohol and tobacco, as they can affect how the medicine works.
Ciprofloxacin Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name-
1-cyclopropyl-6-fluoro-1,4-dihydro-4-oxo-7-(1-piperazinyl)-3-quinolinecarboxylic acid

Storage
- The medicine should be stored at room temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep away from the reach of children
Intake routine/cycle
📌 Daily Dose
Take ciprofloxacin as suggested by your doctor. Your dose can vary depending on the severity of the condition and how you respond to the medication. Do not exceed the prescribed dose without consulting your doctor.
📌 Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
📌 Overdose
If someone takes more than the prescribed dose of ciprofloxacin, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If you know someone who has taken this medicine and is showing these symptoms, take them to the hospital immediately.
FAQ’s
1. 1. Can ciprofloxacin eye drops be used in the ears?
➡️ No, you should not use ciprofloxacin eye drops as ear drops unless specifically directed by your doctor. Eye drops are made for use in the eyes and may not be safe or effective for ear infections. Always use medications as prescribed for the correct area of the body.
2. 2. What are the uses of ciprofloxacin eye drops?
➡️ Ciprofloxacin eye drops are used to treat bacterial eye infections like conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers.
Reference
- Thai T, Salisbury BH, Zito PM. Ciprofloxacin. [Updated 2023 Aug 28]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from.
- Mayo Clinic. Ciprofloxacin (Oral Route) [Internet]. Rochester (MN): Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2023 [cited 2025 May 21]. Available from.
- Cleveland Clinic. Ciprofloxacin Ear Drops: Side Effects, Uses, Dosage & Interactions [Internet]. Cleveland (OH): Cleveland Clinic; [cited 2025 May 21]. Available from.
- Mayo Clinic. Ciprofloxacin (intravenous route) [Internet]. Rochester (MN): Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2025 May 1 [cited 2025 May 21]. Available from.