Key takeaways
Sirturo (bedaquiline) and Cipro (ciprofloxacin) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, but they belong to different medication classes and have important differences. Sirturo is an antitubercular agent specifically used for tuberculosis that doesn't respond to other drugs, while Cipro is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for a wide range of infections, including urinary tract infections, sinus infections, and skin infections. Sirturo requires a specific dosing schedule over 24 weeks, whereas Cipro is typically taken twice daily and is available. Both medications come as oral tablets, but Cipro also comes as an oral liquid. Sirturo is only available as a branded medication, while Cipro is available as a lower-cost generic. Both medications can cause liver damage, but Sirturo also has a higher risk of heart rhythm problems and death, while Cipro can cause tendon rupture and nerve damage. Additionally, Sirturo must be taken with at least three other tuberculosis medications. Both medications have a number of important drug interactions, so be sure your prescriber and pharmacist have a complete list of your medications.
