Drug interactions
Ciprofloxacin + Melatonin
Severity: Minor
Ciprofloxacin and Melatonin: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Melatonin is cleared mainly by CYP1A2, and ciprofloxacin inhibits this enzyme. Melatonin levels may rise substantially, causing more daytime drowsiness, headache or next-day sedation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ciprofloxacin and Melatonin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Ciprofloxacin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Melatonin belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract.
Why it happens
Ciprofloxacin inhibits CYP1A2, reducing the hepatic metabolism of melatonin.
What to do
Use a lower melatonin dose during the antibiotic course. Watch for excess sedation and avoid driving if drowsy.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Ciprofloxacin
- Agomelatine + Ciprofloxacin Contraindicated
- Ciprofloxacin + Fezolinetant Contraindicated
- Ciprofloxacin + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Ciprofloxacin + Tizanidine Contraindicated
- Ciprofloxacin + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Alosetron + Ciprofloxacin Major
Other interactions of Melatonin
- Fluvoxamine + Melatonin Major
- Alfentanil + Melatonin Moderate
- Belladonna and opium + Melatonin Moderate
- Buprenorphine buccal + Melatonin Moderate
- Butabarbital + Melatonin Moderate
- Butalbital + Melatonin Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ciprofloxacin with Melatonin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Ciprofloxacin and Melatonin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Melatonin is cleared mainly by CYP1A2, and ciprofloxacin inhibits this enzyme. Melatonin levels may rise substantially, causing more daytime drowsiness, headache or next-day sedation.
How serious is the interaction between Ciprofloxacin and Melatonin?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use a lower melatonin dose during the antibiotic course. Watch for excess sedation and avoid driving if drowsy.
What other medicines interact with Ciprofloxacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ciprofloxacin with, for example, Agomelatine, Fezolinetant, Thioridazine. The full list is on the Ciprofloxacin page.
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