Which classification does Ciprofloxacin belong to?

Ciprofloxacin falls under the classification of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, specifically recognized as a second-generation fluoroquinolone. This class of antibiotics is characterized by its broad-spectrum activity against various bacteria, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Fluoroquinolones function primarily by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes crucial for DNA replication, transcription, and repair.

Ciprofloxacin is particularly noted for its effectiveness against a range of infections, including those of the urinary tract and respiratory system. The development of fluoroquinolones represented an advancement in antibiotic therapy, allowing for a wider range of action compared to previous generations of antibiotics.