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Does Cipro interact with antacids?

The antibiotic Cipro (generic name ciprofloxacin) can interact with antacids that contain aluminum, magnesium, or calcium. These include >Maalox Antacid Liquid, >Gaviscon Regular Strength Antacid, >Pepto-Bismol Regular Strength Liquid, and >Tums Antacid/Calcium Supplement.

The aluminum, magnesium, or calcium in the antacids bind to Cipro. This reduces the amount of the antibiotic that gets into your bloodstream and decreases Cipro’s ability to fight infection. These antacids also reduce the benefits of similar antibiotics, such as >Floxin (ofloxacin) and >Levaquin (levofloxacin).

If you have an upset stomach, heartburn, or sour stomach while taking Cipro, you have several options:

You can continue to take an antacid product. But take your dose of Cipro at least two hours before or six hours after taking the antacid to avoid an interaction.

Consider taking an alternative drug for your digestive symptoms. Acid-blocking drugs such as >Zantac (ranitidine), >Pepcid (famotidine), or >Axid (nizantidine) will not interact with Cipro.

Sources:
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.
Hansten, P. D., J. R. Horn. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Facts and Comparisons, 2001.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006.

This answer prepared 6/26/2001.
This information reviewed 1/25/2007.