Nitrofurantoin Tablets - UTI Treatment

Nitrofurantoin is a recommended treatment for UTIs that helps relieve the burning pain so you can get back to normal. It is an antibiotic. The drug passes through the bladder and out in the urine to treat UTIs and cystitis. UTIs affect women more than men due to the structure of their reproductive organs. When left untreated, the conditions can develop into serious complications. When combined with painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, Nitrofurantoin works fast to eliminate the infection.

What is Nitrofurantoin used for?

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic used to treat and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by targeting bacteria in the bladder. It is available as capsules, tablets, and a liquid form.

How should I take Nitrofurantoin?

Take Nitrofurantoin with or after food to enhance absorption and reduce stomach upset. Swallow the tablets or capsules whole with water. If using the liquid form, use the provided syringe or spoon to measure the dose accurately.

What is the typical dosage for Nitrofurantoin?

The typical adult dose for treating UTIs is 50mg four times a day or 100mg twice a day for 3-7 days. For prevention, the dose is usually 50-100mg once a day at night. Dosages for children are determined based on their weight or age.

What are the common side effects of Nitrofurantoin?

Common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, and urine discolouration (dark yellow or brown). Taking the medication with food can help mitigate stomach upset. Serious side effects are rare but can include lung problems, liver issues, and severe allergic reactions.

Is Nitrofurantoin safe for everyone?

Nitrofurantoin is not suitable for individuals with severe kidney disease, certain blood disorders, or those who have had allergic reactions to it in the past. Always inform your doctor of any pre-existing conditions before starting the medication.

How long does it take for Nitrofurantoin to work?

Most people begin to feel better within a few days of starting Nitrofurantoin. It is important to complete the full course prescribed to prevent the infection from returning.

Patients with the following conditions are advised to avoid using Nitrofurantoin:

• - An allergy to Nitrofurantoin.
• - Kidney, liver, or lung disease or a condition affecting the nervous system.
• - Porphyria disease.
• - Anemia, vitamin B deficiency or having abnormal levels of salts in your blood.
• - Lacks an enzyme called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase.

Always take your medication as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist:

• - Nitrofurantoin is an oral medicine suitable for women over 18 years.
• - Swallow the capsule with a glass of water.
• - Take Nitrofurantoin in the morning and evening.
• - Take the medicine with a meal or snack to prevent stomach upsets.

Each capsule contains the active ingredient: Nitrofurantoin 100mg Each tablet also contains the inactive ingredients: talc, corn starch, lactose, carbopol, povidone, sugar, magnesium stearate, and gelatin, E104, E171, E132, Shellac, Propylene Glycol (E1520), Titanium Dioxide (E171), Black iron oxide (E172), Ammonium Hydroxide (E527) and Simethicone.

Most patients do not experience side effects when using Nitrofurantoin Capsules. Common side effects include:

• - Feeling sick, stomach ache, loss of appetite, or diarrhoea.
• - Dizziness or drowsiness.
• - Changes of mood.
• - Skin rashes.
• - Hair loss.