Question: I am planning to tour tropical areas in South America later this year. Some friends have suggested that I bring along the antibiotic Cipro in case I get a stomach bug. Is this advisable?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Have you had ciprofloxacin before? Are you taking any other prescription and non-prescription medications, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products? Certain unwanted effects can be caused by taking ciprofloxacin that you should be aware of: nausea, vomiting, and loose bowel movements that might even be blood-tinged. Ciprofloxacin is used to treat or prevent certain infections caused by bacteria, however, please listen to the advice of your pharmacist and doctor before you decide to take it.