Ciprofloxacin vs Metronidazole

## Ciprofloxacin vs Metronidazole: Overview

This comparison examines the pharmacological differences between **Ciprofloxacin** and **Metronidazole**.

## Mechanism of Action

**Ciprofloxacin**: Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.

**Metronidazole**: Forms cytotoxic free radicals that damage bacterial DNA.

## Pharmacokinetics

**Half-life**: Ciprofloxacin — 4 hours; Metronidazole — 8 hours.

## Chemical Properties

**Molecular Formula**: Ciprofloxacin — C17H18FN3O3; Metronidazole — C6H9N3O3.

**Molecular Weight**: Ciprofloxacin — 331.3460 g/mol; Metronidazole — 171.1540 g/mol.

**Type**: Ciprofloxacin — Small molecule; Metronidazole — Small molecule.