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How Effective Is Ciprofloxacin for Strep Throat?

Gregory Hanson
Gregory Hanson

While ciprofloxacin, commonly known as Cipro, can combat the bacteria responsible for strep throat, it's not the first line of defense. According to the National Institutes of Health, penicillin or amoxicillin are recommended for strep throat due to their effectiveness and safety profile. Cipro is generally reserved for cases where patients are allergic to these first-choice antibiotics. 

Moreover, the World Health Organization (WHO) warns of increasing antibiotic resistance, emphasizing the importance of using such medications judiciously. Therefore, while Cipro can treat strep throat, healthcare providers typically consider other options to preserve its efficacy and minimize potential side effects.

Penicillin is often prescribed instead of ciprofloxacin for strep throat.
Penicillin is often prescribed instead of ciprofloxacin for strep throat.

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic and is effective against a wide variety of different bacterial infections. Like all antibiotics, it does nothing to combat a viral infection. It works by interfering with some of the chemicals that many types of bacteria need in order to develop and reproduce. This drug will typically kill or weaken a large percentage of a bacterial population, and the body's immune system can then generally handle any surviving bacteria.

It may be necessary to try more than one type of antibiotic for strep throat.
It may be necessary to try more than one type of antibiotic for strep throat.

The variety of streptococcus bacteria that is responsible for strep throat is normally susceptible to treatment with ciprofloxacin. This drug will normally be prescribed for seven to ten days and is typically taken twice daily. It is important to space doses of this drug at even 12 hour intervals, because this will maintain a steady and effective level of antibiotics in the bloodstream. If the concentration of ciprofloxacin or any other antibiotic drops too low, then bacteria populations may be able to recover, which can lead to the development of resistant strains?

Gargling with warm salt water may help temporarily soothe a sore throat.
Gargling with warm salt water may help temporarily soothe a sore throat.

Penicillin and other antibiotics are often prescribed instead of ciprofloxacin for strep throat. This is because the bacteria that cause strep throat often respond to other antibiotics just as effectively and because the side effects of ciprofloxacin can be more serious than those associated with some other antibiotics. Cipro interacts with several other medications, and some patients will not be able to take it if they have had negative reactions to the class of antibiotics that it belongs to.

Taking ciprofloxacin may cause some patients to experience sensitivity to light.
Taking ciprofloxacin may cause some patients to experience sensitivity to light.

In a small number of cases, taking ciprofloxacin for strep throat may prove to be ineffective due to bacterial resistance. This is fairly uncommon because bacteria need to undergo a rather complicated mutation in order to develop such immunity, but it is not unheard of. If this drug is ineffective due to bacterial immunity, then some other antibiotic will typically be used instead. More powerful and newer antibiotic drugs often produce even more serious side effects.

Strep throat is a condition that refers to a painful or scratchy throat caused by a bacterial infection. Streptococcal bacteria cause sore throat, i.e., streptococcal pharyngitis. A painful throat of this type is termed strep throat. 

A throat culture may be performed to determine which antibiotic will work best for the strain of strep present.
A throat culture may be performed to determine which antibiotic will work best for the strain of strep present.

It is divided into two types based on the type of bacteria causing them - group A and non-group A streptococcal pharyngitis. Studies do show that group A streptococcal pharyngitis (GAS) and non-group A streptococcal pharyngitis (non-GAS) have the same symptoms. 

The condition is common in children. Spring weather and young age are risk factors for strep throat.

Symptoms of Strep Throat 

Most commonly observed symptoms of strep throat include painful swallowing and persistent throat pain. White patches on the tonsils and red spots on the soft/hard palate are sometimes seen. Systemic symptoms like fever, headache, rash, and body aches may accompany throat symptoms. Vomiting is a frequent symptom in children who have difficulty swallowing. Swollen lymph nodes of the neck are severe symptoms of strep throat. 

Strep Throat Vs. Sore Throat 

While both have the same symptoms, strep throat and sore throat differ in underlying causes. A sore throat is merely the inflammation of the pharynx or throat and can be caused by flu, viral infection, or even pollen allergy

On the other hand, strep throat is the result of a streptococcus pyogenes infection. The diagnostic features of strep throat are tonsillar exudate, pharyngeal exudate, and the presence of tender neck lymph nodes.

Does Strep Throat Go Away On Its Own?

Unlike sore throat, strep throat does not follow the time pattern of viral infections. However, in most cases, strep throat resolves on its own within 3 to 7 days with or without medical intervention. The incubation period for group A streptococcus pyogenes is 2 to 5 days.

Is Strep Throat a Communicable Condition?

Yes, it can be transferred from an infected person to others via contact with respiratory secretions. Antibiotic treatment significantly reduces transmission; therefore, treating bacterial pharyngitis as soon as possible is good. 

Ciprofloxacin for Strep Throat 

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic and is effective against a wide variety of different bacterial infections. Like all antibiotics, it does nothing to combat a viral infection. It works by interfering with some of the chemicals that many types of bacteria need in order to develop and reproduce. This drug will typically kill or weaken a large percentage of a bacterial population, and the body's immune system can then generally handle any surviving bacteria.

The variety of streptococcus bacteria that is responsible for strep throat is normally susceptible to treatment with ciprofloxacin. According to a study, low doses of orally administered ciprofloxacin are highly effective in treating bacterial pharyngitis and tonsillitis.

This drug will be prescribed for seven to ten days and is typically taken twice daily. It is essential to space doses of this drug at even 12-hour intervals because this will maintain a steady level of antibiotics in the bloodstream. 

If the concentration of ciprofloxacin or any other antibiotic drops too low, then bacteria populations may be able to recover, which can lead to the development of resistant strains. 

Fluoroquinolone and ciprofloxacin resistance in S. pyogenes is a common phenomenon. The main reason for ciprofloxacin resistance is self-medication. According to a multicenter study, despite access to medical facilities, people of Greece report taking different antibiotics for common cold and fever. Ciprofloxacin was used by 2% of the study participants.

In a small number of cases, taking ciprofloxacin for strep throat may prove to be ineffective due to bacterial resistance. This is fairly uncommon because bacteria need to undergo a rather complicated mutation to develop such immunity, but it is not unheard of. If this drug is ineffective due to bacterial immunity, then some other antibiotic will typically be used instead. More powerful and newer antibiotic drugs often produce even more severe side effects.

Other Antibiotics for Strep Throat 

Taking ciprofloxacin for strep throat will generally be effective but is not always the best treatment option. The chemical action of ciprofloxacin, sometimes known as Cipro, works against the variety of bacteria that causes strep throat. Some bacterial populations, however, may have mutated and become resistant to this antibiotic

Other antibiotics are commonly used before ciprofloxacin, both because of the need to limit the development of drug resistance and because of the side effects of ciprofloxacin, which can be pretty serious.

Studies show that amoxicillin and penicillin are equally effective in treating bacterial pharyngitis. First-generation cephalosporins and erythromycin are recommended in cases of penicillin allergy. Early diagnosis of group A streptococcal pharyngitis is necessary for effective treatment.

Penicillin and other antibiotics are often prescribed instead of ciprofloxacin for strep throat. That is because the bacteria that cause strep throat respond to other antibiotics just as effectively and because the side effects of ciprofloxacin can be more serious than those associated with some other antibiotics. 

As per a study, recurrent bacterial pharyngitis must be cured with another agent after antibiotic treatment. Cephalosporins and macrolides can be used for antibiotic-resistant strep throat cases. Fluoroquinolones (such as ciprofloxacin), sulfonamides, and tetracyclines are not recommended for group A streptococcal pharyngitis.

Ciprofloxacin Side Effects 

Like all drugs, there are specific side effects of taking ciprofloxacin for bacterial conditions. In general, the adverse effects are mild and well-tolerated. The most common ones include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, vaginal itching, and fatigue. 

Serious side effects are rare (1 in a 100) but should be reported immediately to a medical facility. Severe adverse effects include muscle weakness, sudden shortness of breath, bloody diarrhea, and swollen tissues, both hard and soft. People with diabetes, congenital heart disease, or epilepsy should be cautious while taking ciprofloxacin.

Cipro interacts with several other medications, and some patients will not be able to take it if they have had adverse reactions to the class of antibiotics that it belongs to. Blood thinners such as warfarin can interact and reduce the drug's efficacy. Ciprofloxacin can also slow down the removal of certain drugs from the body, including duloxetine, tizanidine, etc.

Home Remedies for Strep Throat

Adopting home remedies is the best way to soothe yourself during a sore or strep throat. There are numerous effective domestic ways of alleviating symptoms. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen can lower the fever and reduce throat pain. It is crucial to have sufficient rest. Thus, you should take a day off from work or school to let your body heal. 

Gargling with warm salt water can help reduce throat swelling. Consuming warm liquids like broth soup or honey can soothe the throat. Kids and adults can use throat lozenges to get relief from throat irritation and pain.

FAQ on Ciprofloxacin for Strep Throat

Is ciprofloxacin a good antibiotic for treating strep throat?

While ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, it is not the first-line treatment for strep throat. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), penicillin or amoxicillin are typically preferred due to their effectiveness and the low incidence of resistance among streptococcal bacteria. Ciprofloxacin may be used in cases where an individual is allergic to penicillin or when other antibiotics are not effective.

How long does it take for ciprofloxacin to work on strep throat?

The duration for ciprofloxacin to show improvement in symptoms of strep throat can vary, but patients often begin to feel better within a few days of starting the medication. It's crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated and to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Can ciprofloxacin cause any side effects when used for strep throat?

Like all antibiotics, ciprofloxacin can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and sensitivity to sunlight. More serious but rare side effects can include tendon rupture, nerve damage, and mood changes. It's important to discuss potential side effects with a healthcare provider and report any unusual symptoms immediately.

Are there any groups of people who should avoid using ciprofloxacin for strep throat?

Certain groups should use ciprofloxacin with caution or avoid it altogether. This includes children, pregnant women, and individuals with a history of tendon disorders. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against the use of fluoroquinolones, including ciprofloxacin, for uncomplicated infections like strep throat in these populations due to the potential for serious side effects.

What should I do if I'm allergic to penicillin and have strep throat?

If you're allergic to penicillin, there are alternative antibiotics available for treating strep throat. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, cephalosporins, macrolides, and clindamycin are options that can be used in penicillin-allergic individuals. Your healthcare provider will choose the most appropriate antibiotic based on your medical history, the severity of your infection, and local antibiotic resistance patterns.

Discussion Comments

anon998165

Fluoroquinelones do not work well for upper side respiratory problems. Better try Cephalosporins for those problems, or Amoxocilin or any other class of penicillin. Cephradines work best for me.

anon994773

I've had a couple of urinary tract infections and cipro worked very well for them. Now I've been prescribed it for an ear and strep throat infection, and so far it hasn't worked. I'm going to give it a couple more days then back to med express.

Perdido

My doctor's favorite drug to prescribe for just about any condition is ciprofloxacin. The funny thing is that it seems to clear up every infection that I get, too!

It worked on my strep infection, but it did have help from that steroid shot and steroid dose pack. I have a feeling that the steroids are what caused me to feel better right away, and the ciprofloxacin is what slowly cleared up the infection.

orangey03

Ciprofloxacin makes everything I put in my mouth taste horribly bitter. I can't even drink water without getting that unpleasant taste while I'm on it.

I was glad that my doctor gave me penicillin instead of ciprofloxacin last winter when I got strep throat. I could have taken ciprofloxacin, but I really would have been miserable if I had, because I wouldn't have been able to enjoy any food or anything that I drank during that time.

lighth0se33

@wavy58 – Amoxicillin seems to be a popular drug to treat strep. My mother took it for this once, and I have taken it twice. It cleared up my infection nicely, but my mother couldn't stand to take it for long enough.

She said that it made her vomit. So, she got the doctor to give her something else, and he gave her ciprofloxacin. It didn't cause any bad side effects, and she recovered quickly.

wavy58

My dad gets extremely nauseous if he takes ciprofloxacin. He always asks his doctor to give him something else if this drug is what he is about to prescribe.

Though he has taken it for some types of infection, I don't think he's ever had to take it for strep throat. I remember him taking amoxicillin for that once, and he got better in just a short time.

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    • Penicillin is often prescribed instead of ciprofloxacin for strep throat.
      By: Cheryl Casey
      Penicillin is often prescribed instead of ciprofloxacin for strep throat.
    • It may be necessary to try more than one type of antibiotic for strep throat.
      By: NorGal
      It may be necessary to try more than one type of antibiotic for strep throat.
    • Gargling with warm salt water may help temporarily soothe a sore throat.
      By: taka
      Gargling with warm salt water may help temporarily soothe a sore throat.
    • Taking ciprofloxacin may cause some patients to experience sensitivity to light.
      By: maksimshirkov
      Taking ciprofloxacin may cause some patients to experience sensitivity to light.
    • A throat culture may be performed to determine which antibiotic will work best for the strain of strep present.
      By: JackF
      A throat culture may be performed to determine which antibiotic will work best for the strain of strep present.