Question 65

Administration of ciprofloxacin tablets with milk could cause the inhibition of absorption.

Ciprofloxacin tablets taken with milk can inhibit the absorption of the drug due to the presence of calcium in milk, which binds to ciprofloxacin and reduces its bioavailability.

A) Absorption

Absorption is the correct answer because ciprofloxacin can form complexes with calcium present in milk, leading to decreased gastrointestinal absorption of the antibiotic. This interaction can significantly reduce the amount of drug that enters systemic circulation, thereby diminishing its therapeutic effect.

B) Distribution

Distribution refers to the dispersion of the drug throughout the body's fluids and tissues. Milk does not affect the distribution of ciprofloxacin once it is absorbed into the bloodstream; therefore, this option is incorrect.

C) Metabolism

Metabolism involves the chemical modification of the drug in the body, primarily occurring in the liver. The presence of milk does not influence the metabolic pathways of ciprofloxacin, making this option incorrect as well.

D) Excretion

Excretion is the process of eliminating the drug from the body, usually through the kidneys. Milk does not hinder the excretion of ciprofloxacin, and thus this option is not applicable in the context of the question.

Conclusion

The correct answer is absorption because the administration of ciprofloxacin tablets with milk leads to the formation of complexes that inhibit its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. All other options do not pertain to the effects of milk on the pharmacokinetics of ciprofloxacin, as they relate to processes that occur after absorption or are unaffected by the presence of milk.