Nitrofurantoin

What is Nitrofurantoin?

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic treatment that is used to clear up a urinary tract infection. UTIs are common in women and are caused by bacteria travelling up the urethra and into the bladder. 

How does Nitrofurantoin work?

Nitrofurantoin is directed to the bladder as soon as you take it. The antibiotic works to kill off the bacteria which have entered the bladder and multiplied, clearing the infection and preventing it from recurring. It's important to complete the course of antibiotics to make sure this happens, otherwise the bacteria can continue to grow and trigger your symptoms again. 

How long does it take for Nitrofurantoin to work?

You will usually start to feel better within a few days of taking Nitrofurantoin. It might take up to a week to fully treat a UTI so always take it exactly as your doctor has instructed. 

Does Nitrofurantoin treat kidney infections?

Nitrofurantoin is not specifically designed for the treatment of a kidney infection. Although it may provide some relief, your doctor is likely to issue you with something that will be better suited. 

Active ingredients

Each capsule contains 50 or 100mg of Nitrofurantoin as the active ingredient. 

Inactive ingredients

The additional ingredients in the medication are lactose, maize starch, pregelatinised maize starch, sodium starch glycollate and magnesium stearate. (The inactive ingredients may vary between different manufacturers).

How to take Nitrofurantoin

To treat a UTI you'll usually take 200mg of Nitrofurantoin each day. This might be in the format of 2-4 pills daily. Space these out evenly throughout the day; taking one in the morning and one 12 hours later in the evening. If the dose is split into 4 tablets then you should take these every 3-4 hours. Always take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed. 

When should you start taking Nitrofurantoin?

Nitrofurantoin should be taken as soon as possible after noticing symptoms. 

Do I need to finish a course of Nitrofurantoin even when my symptoms have resolved?

Always finish the course of Nitrofurantoin that you have been prescribed. If you stop the treatment early then you are likely to experience a recurring UTI as the bacteria may still be present. 

What if I take too many Nitrofurantoin tablets?

Taking one too many Nitrofurantoin pills shouldn't cause you any harm but if you've taken more than two seek medical attention. 

Nitrofurantoin side effects

Side Effects commonly include: 

• Drowsiness 

• Nausea 

• Diarrhea 

• Abdominal pain 

• Vomiting 

• Reduced appetite 

• Feeling dizzy 

• Headache 

• Darker urine 

Serious side effects which require attention from a doctor include: 

• A weak, numb or tingling feeling in the muscles or joints 

• Yellowed skin (jaundice) 

• Coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath 

• Fever or chills 

• Unexplained bruising or bleeding and feeling generally unwell 

• A severe headache  

• Allergic reaction

Contraindications

Tell your doctor if any of the following circumstances apply to you: 

• You have ever had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients or to similar medicines 

• You have porphyria

• You have something called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase 

• You are diabetic 

• You have severe kidney disease 

• You are anemic 

• You are deficient in vitamin B 

• You have severe weakness due to a medical condition 

Your doctor will be able to assess if Nitrofurantoin is suitable for you. 

Drug interactions

Certain medications may interact with Nitrofurantoin. Tell your doctor if you are taking: 

• Antacids 

• Medication for gout 

• Any over-the-counter UTI remedies 

• Quinolones

How to avoid UTIs

A UTI can be incredibly uncomfortable and cause inconvenience to your daily life. If you are prone to them you can try to implement these preventative steps: 

• Drink lots of water

• Wipe from front to back after going to the toilet

• Always urinate after sexual intercourse 

• Avoid using contraception with spermicide 

• Avoid perfumed washes and perfumed sanitary products

Macrobid vs Nitrofurantoin

Macrobid and Nitrofurantoin are essentially the same thing. Nitrofurantoin is the generic name for the medicine while Macrobid is a brand name of it. 

Alternatives to Nitrofurantoin

Alternative Treatments for a UTI include: 

• Cephalexin 

• Fosfomycin 

• Ceftriaxone 

• Trimethoprim

Cranberry juice and Nitrofurantoin

Cranberry juice is often marketed as being helpful for a UTI due to the antioxidant effects of the fruit. Despite this, they may not make much difference as there is no definitive evidence that it helps.