Foods to Avoid While Taking Cipro

Your physician may prescribe an antibiotic called Cipro for signs and symptoms of an infection. Known generically as ciprofloxacin, this medication is used to treat bacterial infections affecting the urinary tract, bone and skin, as well as inhalation and cutaneous anthrax. You may want to refrain from some food products that may affect Cipro therapy by increasing side effects or decreasing its effectiveness.

Dairy

Don't take your dose of Cipro with a glass of milk. Better to take it with a large glass of water and wait at least two hours before consuming a glass of milk. Dairy products can reduce the effectiveness of Cipro if taken together, according to Drugs.com. If the medication causes an upset stomach, consult your physician for alternative methods and a possible dosage change.

Caffeine

Antibiotics & Lysine

Learn More

Your morning cup of coffee or tea may need to wait if you're prescribed Cipro for an infection, according to Drugs.com. Caffeine and caffeine products taken with Cipro can enhance the effects of caffeine and may require monitoring of your response. Your response may include an increase in heart rate and frequent urination. Caffeine products include:

• coffee
  
• tea
  
• cola beverages
  
• some sodas
  
• chocolate,
  
• cocoa

Calcium Products

Foods and beverages such as orange juice that include calcium fortifiers can also diminish the gastrointestinal concentration of Cipro, according to PDRhealth.com. The decreased concentration may postpone reaching peak or therapeutic levels necessary to fight an infection. Some of the fortified products may include juices and cereals.

Iron, Zinc and Magnesium Products

The Effects of Long-term Use of Lysine

Learn More

Food or drinks that are high in iron, zinc and magnesium may effect the absorption of Cipro if taken together, according to The Florida Knee and Orthopedic Centers. Consumption of these products may need to be separated by at least two hours from the administration of Cipro. This would also include taking antacids shortly before or after taking Cipro. If you suffer from an upset stomach from Cipro, notify your physician for alternative methods.