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April 09, 2007
Bring on the Anthrax
I'm into my second dose of Cipro and--wow--are those side effects powerful...
WARNINGS: All quinolones cause erosion of cartilage in weight-bearing joints. They may cause convulsions, increases intracranial pressure, toxic psychosis, CNS stimulation (i.e.nervousness, lightheadedness, confusion, hallucinations).Should not be used in anyone with seizure disorders, or cerebral arteriosclerosis. There have been deaths due to anaphylactic shock, and cardiovascular collapse. Also occurring are tingling, itching, facial swelling, and difficult breathing.
ADVERSE REACTIONS:
* Nausea (5.2%),
* Diarrhea (2.3%),
* vomiting (2%),
* abdominal pain/discomfort(1.7%),
* headache(1.2%),
* restlessness(1.1%), and
* rash (1.1%).
Ok, so today I've just had the dry mouth (with accompanying metallic taste) nausea, muscle pain (my whole back is in knots), headache, dizziness, and restlessness. But I encourage all my loyal readers to stay alert for any signs of crazy behavior, since apparently the drug builds up over time and the 3-day mark is where you hear all the "emergency trip to the ER because I thought my arms were on fire" stories.
Note: After reading this website, I am now totally terrified of continuing the medication. On the other hand, I am now only peeing every hour, rather than every 8-10 minutes like last night. And I've been careful to stay away from caffeine, which apparently makes the side effects MUCH worse.
Note #2: After drinking 3 gallons of water over a 2-hour period last night, I know now what it feels like to be 7 months pregnant. My stomach was so distended that--even leaning over--I couldn't see my toes. So I am grateful to report that the Cipro--while potentially causing long-term irreperable joint damage--has once again allowed me to curl up in a ball on my bed. Because that is my preferred panic attack position.
