Cipro (generic name: ciprofloxacin), a member of the quinolone group of antibiotics, is used to treat bacterial infections of the abdomen, skin, bones, urinary tract, and lower respiratory system. Doctors also prescribe the antibiotic for the treatment of bronchial infections, typhoid fever, prostate gland infections, and tuberculosis. Cipro gained national attention when doctors announced that the antibacterial drug is effective against inhalation of anthrax.

Cipro has been associated with tendon ruptures. A study in Germany on lab rats showed that the rats' Achilles tendons suffered "degenerative alterations" shortly after being given Cipro. Researchers believe that Cipro may have a toxic effect on connective tissue structures, a hypothesis that explains tendon ruptures. In the study, ruptures continued to occur even after the rats stopped taking Cipro.

Numerous other side effects have been associated with Cipro. The side effects include rashes, fever, shortness of breath, tingling, itching, jaundice, and hives. Cipro is also linked to peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when there is damage to the peripheral nerves.