Ciprofloxacin Still Has a Place, But a Narrow One

Ciprofloxacin is now a targeted option in surgery, not a default, because its adverse effects can seriously disrupt surgical recovery. This narrative review found the best use is in stable patients with culture-confirmed, susceptible gram-negative infection after source control, especially urinary infection needing oral step-down.

• Tendon rupture, neurotoxicity, dysglycemia, QT effects and hypersensitivity can all have outsized surgical consequences.
• Older age, corticosteroid use, renal dysfunction and common comedications raise the risk further.

Where it fits: Use ciprofloxacin only after susceptibility is confirmed and no equally effective, safer oral option exists. Screen for interactions and risk factors before prescribing.