Anthrax

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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• Aftercare
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Anthrax is an infection caused by bacteria. The bacteria are found in soil and spread from animals to humans. Cutaneous anthrax, or skin infection, is the most common. Lung infection is rare and may develop if you breathe in the bacteria. Intestine infection is also rare and may develop if you eat food that contains the bacteria.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:

• You have severe shortness of breath.
• You have hives or swelling of your face or throat.

Return to the emergency department if:

• You are dizzy or feel weak.
• Your abdomen is swollen, tender, and hard.
• You have severe pain.
• You vomit blood or have blood in your bowel movements.
• You have a sudden, high fever.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• ciprofloxacin
• Cipro
• Cipro I.V.
• Vibramycin
• Doxy 100

View more treatment options

Call your doctor if:

• Your symptoms do not go away or get worse, even after treatment.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

• Antibiotics help treat the infection caused by the anthrax bacteria.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Ask your doctor about the anthrax vaccine:

The anthrax vaccine helps prevent all forms of infection. The vaccine is recommended for people at high risk for infection. This includes anyone who works directly with the bacteria, such as in a lab. Military personnel and anyone who travels to high-risk areas should also be vaccinated. Farmers, veterinarians, and livestock workers should be vaccinated. The vaccine is not recommended for anyone younger than 18 years.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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