Pharmacokinetics: Ciprofloxacin is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Oral bioavailability is approximately 70% and a peak plasma concentration of about 2.5 mcg/mL is achieved 1-2 hrs after a dose of 500 mg by mouth. Absorption may be delayed by the presence of food but is not substantially affected overall. The plasma t½ is about 3.5-4.5 hrs. Half-life may be prolonged in renal impairment and to some extent in the elderly.
Plasma protein-binding ranges from 20-40%. Ciprofloxacin is widely distributed in the body and tissue penetration is generally good. It appears in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), but concentrations are only about 10% of those in the plasma when the meninges are not inflamed. Ciprofloxacin crosses the placenta and is also distributed into the breast milk. High concentrations are achieved in the bile.
Ciprofloxacin is eliminated principally by urinary excretion. Only small amounts of ciprofloxacin are removed by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.