Mercip 500mg Tablet contains Ciprofloxacin 500mg, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic manufactured by Martin Dow Pharmaceuticals (Pak) Ltd. It is commonly available in a 10-tablet strip in Pakistan.

Ciprofloxacin works by interfering with bacterial DNA replication, helping stop the growth and survival of susceptible bacteria. It is a prescription antibiotic and should be used only when recommended by a healthcare professional.

Uses

Mercip 500mg may be prescribed for certain susceptible bacterial infections, including:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Certain gastrointestinal infections
• Typhoid fever when appropriate
• Certain respiratory infections
• Skin and soft-tissue infections
• Bone and joint infections
• Certain bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms

Ciprofloxacin is not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.

Benefits

• Helps treat susceptible bacterial infections
• Works against a range of Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria
• Convenient oral tablet formulation
• Can be used for certain urinary and gastrointestinal bacterial infections when clinically appropriate

Composition

Each tablet contains:

• Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride equivalent to Ciprofloxacin 500mg

Drug class: Fluoroquinolone antibiotic

Pack size: 10 tablets

Dosage & How to Take

• Take Mercip exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Swallow the tablet with plenty of water.
• Take it at the prescribed intervals and complete the course unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
• Avoid taking ciprofloxacin at the same time as antacids or supplements containing calcium, magnesium, iron or zinc, as these can reduce its absorption. Follow the timing instructions provided by your pharmacist/doctor.
• Do not self-medicate or use leftover antibiotics.

The appropriate dose and duration depend on the infection, kidney function, age and other medicines being used.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Changes in taste

Ciprofloxacin can rarely cause serious adverse effects, including tendon inflammation or rupture, nerve problems and significant changes in heart rhythm. Seek medical advice promptly if you develop severe tendon pain/swelling, unusual numbness or tingling, severe weakness or palpitations.

Precautions

• Tell your doctor if you have a history of tendon disorders, heart-rhythm problems, seizures or significant kidney disease.
• Ciprofloxacin can interact with several medicines, so provide your doctor with a complete medication list.
• Avoid unnecessary use of fluoroquinolone antibiotics because of their potentially serious adverse effects and antibiotic-resistance concerns.
• Seek medical advice if severe or persistent diarrhea develops during or after treatment.
• Take extra care with strenuous physical activity if you develop tendon pain.
• Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only after professional medical advice.

Price in Pakistan

Current Pakistani listings show Mercip 500mg Tablet, 10's at approximately Rs. 309–416, depending on the pharmacy and current pricing. Mr Medicine Mart's current listing shows Rs. 363.23 per strip of 10 tablets (regular price Rs. 403.59).

Mr Medicine Mart price: Rs. 363.23 / 10 tablets.

FAQs

Q1: What is Mercip 500mg Tablet used for?

Mercip is used to treat certain bacterial infections, including selected urinary, gastrointestinal, skin and other infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

Q2: What is the active ingredient in Mercip 500mg?

It contains Ciprofloxacin 500mg.

Q3: Is Mercip 500mg an antibiotic?

Yes. It is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic.

Q4: Can Mercip treat flu or the common cold?

No. Ciprofloxacin does not treat viral infections such as flu or the common cold.

Q5: Can Mercip be used for a UTI?

Ciprofloxacin may be prescribed for certain UTIs when the causative bacteria are susceptible and it is considered an appropriate treatment. Your doctor should determine whether it is suitable.