Adsorption studies of ciprofloxacin: evaluation of magnesium trisilicate, kaolin and starch as alternatives for the management of ciprofloxacin poisoning.

In vitro experiments were performed to investigated the extend of adsorption of ciprofloxacin to kaolin, magnesium trislilicate and to a starch obtained from the tubers of Tacca involucrata (Tacca starch) and to explore the effect of varying pH on this adsorption. Activated charcoal, a standard adsorbent and antidote in the management of poisoning due to a variety of chemical agents was employed as a comparing standard. The results of the study indicate that kaolin and magnesium trisilicate adsorbed ciprofloxacin effectively while the adsorption of the drug on the starch was relatively low. Adsorption was dependent upon the quantity of the adsorbed used. Kaolin or magnesium trisilicate could serve as an effective antidotal alternative to activated charcoal in the management of ciprofloxacin poisoning. Except in cases of poisoning due to ciprofloxacin, the concurrent administration of the drug with kaolin or magnesium trisilicate may be contraindicated. Tacca starch, however, may not really be recommended for the management of ciprofloxacin poisoning.