Ciprofloxacin (equivalent to Cipro 250mg or 500mg) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes responsible for DNA replication, repair, and transcription, which ultimately prevents bacterial growth. Ciprofloxacin is commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, gastrointestinal infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The 250mg dose is generally used for less severe infections, while the 500mg dose is used for more serious or complicated infections. Ciprofloxacin is typically taken twice daily for a prescribed duration, depending on the severity and type of infection.