Value of single-dose ciprofloxacin in the treatment of acute uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women.

Single-dose antibiotic therapy for uncomplicated infection of the lower urinary tract (UTI) in women has resulted in high success rates. Ciprofloxacin, like other new quinolones, has shown good in vitro activity against the pathogens most frequently encountered in UTI, high concentrations in the urine and is well tolerated. The present report describes a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial of two single-dose regimens of ciprofloxacin in women with lower UTI. Thirty-six women received 250 mg and forty-two received 500 mg of ciprofloxacin as a single dose. Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated pathogen in both groups (forty-eight patients). Clinical and bacteriological cures were attained in 81% and 93% of the 250 mg and 500 mg dose groups, respectively, 7 days after treatment. Follow-up at 4 weeks after completion of treatment disclosed that the clinical cure rate was 62% and 79% respectively. Ciprofloxacin was well tolerated. This study shows that a single dose of ciprofloxacin is an effective and safe treatment of uncomplicated UTI. Although the cure rates were higher with a single dose of 500 mg, further studies are needed for assessment to determine the optimal dose.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes