Ciprofloxacin: side effects may include...

Antibiotics are often used as the main approach to the treatment of IBD, although no specific infectious agent has been identified as causes of these diseases. However, researchers believe that antibiotics can help control the symptoms of IBD by reducing intestinal bacteria and directly suppress the immune system of the intestine. Antibiotics are effective as prolonged therapy in some people with inflammatory bowel diseases including Crohn's disease patients with fistulas (abnormal channels between two loops of intestine or between the intestine and other structuresuch as skin) or recurrent abscess (pus pocket) near their anus. Patients with active disease successfully treated with antibiotics can be stored on these as maintenance therapy until the drug remains in force. Although useful for people with Crohn's disease, antibiotics are generally not considered useful for those with ulcerative colitis, or to maintain remission or in acute situations. Clinical trials have not shown that antibiotics are important in the treatment order strattera of severe ulcerative colitis. The exception is

toxic megacolon, a condition that puts people at high risk of perforation. This is a life-threatening complication characterized by bloating and extremely inflated colon. Although there are several antibiotics that can be effective for some people, the two most often prescribed in IBD are:

How to metronidazole and ciprofloxacin is a broad spectrum antibiotic, which by definition fight a wide range of bacteria. Metronidazole is the most studied antibiotic in IBD. As primary therapy for active Crohn's, this drug has been shown to exceed placebo (sugar pill) and is sulfasalazineespecially, when the disease affects the colon. Metronidazole has also been shown to reduce recurrence of Crohn's during the first three months after surgery resection of the ileum. More than 50 percent of patients treated with metronidazole may be effective in the management of perineal Crohn's disease (associated with the pelvic region). Metronidazole is also used to suppress excessive growth

C. difficult type of bacteria that causes inflammation. Another indication for metronidazole in people who develop pouhita after ileal-anal sac surgery anastomosis. In this procedure, after removal of the colon inner pocket is formed with patients ileum (lower small intestine) to prevent the need for an external device. Sometimes the bag is very excited, because the term pouhita. Ciprofloxacin is widely used for treatment of active Crohn's disease and pouhita. It is also much safer than metronidazole. Both metronidazole and ciprofloxacin are available in intravenous (IV) forms and can be used as such if necessary. Metronidazole: Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, metallic taste in mouth, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, and discolored urine (dark or reddish-brown). Another side effect of long-term use of tingling in the arms and legs, which may persist even after discontinuation of the drug stops. If you develop these tingling, tell your doctor. The drug should be stopped and will not start up. Ciprofloxacin: Side effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash, restlessness, all of which are rare. People take different drugs, or prescription or over-the-counter, should always be alert for interactions between drugs. Drug interactions may decrease the effectiveness of drugs, increase effect, or cause unexpected side effects. Before taking any medication, read the instructions carefully. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medicines you taking into account (even over-the-counter medicines or additional therapy), and any diseases you may have. Metronidazole affects the breakdown of alcohol, which can lead to nausea and vomiting. Therefore, avoid alcohol in any form during the treatment and at least two days after the last dose. Ciprofloxacin may interact with antacids (eg, Rolaids and Tums), so do not take the inside, just a few hours. It also interacts with the same vitamin and mineral supplements that contain calcium, iron, or zinc. Taking antacids or these vitamins and minerals, too close to a dose of ciprofloxacin can greatly reduce the effect of antibiotics. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking metronidazole or ciprofloxacin. They are often prescribed during pregnancy, but make sure to discuss these medications with your doctor. Avoid sun exposure during these antibiotics. When you go outside, wear sunscreen during the day hoursand avoid sunburn. Antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptive drugs (birth control pills). Antibiotics can dangerously interfere with the anticoagulant warfarin treatment (Coumadin), which makes the blood too thin and increases the risk of bleeding. Dose adjustment of warfarin may be necessary if antibiotics are started. Be sure to tell any doctor's prescription of antibiotics for you if you are taking warfarin. Updated 03/22/11.