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How long does Cipro take to work?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Jan 9, 2025.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Although ciprofloxacin starts working within hours of taking it, you may not notice an improvement in your symptoms for 2 to 3 days. For some infections, such as osteomyelitis (a bone infection), it may take up to a week before you show any improvement.

Taking ciprofloxacin with dairy products, such as milk or yogurt, or with calcium supplements can also affect absorption and delay how quickly ciprofloxacin starts to work.

Even once you feel better, it is important to finish the course of ciprofloxacin that your doctor prescribed. This will ensure the infection doesn’t return quickly.

References
  • Ciprofloxacin. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ciprofloxacin/#:~:text=For%20most%20infections%2C%20you%20should,feel%20worse%20at%20any%20time.
  • Ciprofloxacin. Revised 08/2021. AHFS DI Essentials https://www.drugs.com/monograph/ciprofloxacin.html

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