Is Ciprofloxacin Required After Being Bitten By A Dog?

Posted on Sun, 11 Sep 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 11 Sep 2016 Answered on

Mon, 3 Oct 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Can I give my 15 year old ciprofloxacin 500 mg for a small dog puncture bite from our dog. It is scarped over ,not swollow but the skin is red.

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Ciprofloxacin is not for patients below 18 years

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing in to us.

Ciprofloxacin might cause serious bone problems in children below 18 years. Please avoid giving ciprofloxacin to your child.

A dog wound requires cleaning and examination by a doctor. Giving anti rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin is required. A tetanus shot is also recommended.

There are more safe antibiotics which can be given keeping in mind age of the patient. Please let your doctor about any medicine allergy when prescribing antibiotics.

Hope your query is answered.
Please do write back if you have any doubts.

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D