Nitrofurantoin

Nitrofurantoin contains the active ingredient by the same name (it is also sold as Microbid, Furadantin or Macrodantin) which is an antibiotic for urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly bladder infection (cystitis), for which it is a first line treatment.

The DNA of the bacteria causing the infection is destroyed by Nitrofurantoin which affects the cell metabolism and the bacteria eventually dies as it can no longer reproduce or repair itself. Nitrofurantoin is especially effective for treatments of the urinary tract, because it concentrates in urine.

The short treatment with Nitrofurantoin fights the symptoms and underlying infection of the UTI effectively and quickly removes uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent urge to urinate and burning sensation while urinating.

While cystitis usually affects women, men can also be at risk and often suffer a more severe development of the infection. Additionally it is more likely for cystitis in men to be caused by potentially serious underlying conditions, e.g. prostate enlargement or cancer. Symptoms of cystitis should therefore not be taken lightly and individual doctor advice is recommended.

Nitrofurantoin is suitable for adults with diagnosed cystitis where other causes than bacterial infection have been ruled out. It is not suitable for patients with impaired kidney function, porphyria or G6PD deficiency.

The antiobiotic is safe to use during pregnancy, but not in the last weeks before birth or during labour and delivery. During breastfeeding the use of Nitrofurantoin should be cleared individually with the prescribing doctor.

Some medical conditions might preclude the use of Nitrofurantoin or require careful consideration and regular control by the treating doctor. These include:

• anaemia
• diabetes
• frequent allergic reactions
• limited kidney function

Nitrofurantoin is available as tablets in dosages of 50 mg and 100 mg. Tablets with 100 mg are taken twice a day, 50 mg tablets are taken four times a day.

The length of treatment differs for men and women. Female patients have to complete at least 3 full days of treatment. If symptoms persist after the third day, treatment can be continued for up to 7 days. Male patients have to complete 7 days of treatment in every case.

Nitrofurantoin is taken in form of tablets twice a day for 100 mg or four times a day for 50 mg doses, ideally during meals. Taking the tablet with some milk or food can help avoid side effects like stomach problems and supports the absorption of the active ingredient.

Just like other antibiotics Nitrofurantoin has to be taken exactly according to instructions by the prescribing doctor to avoid potential bacterial resistance developing. Therefore the course of treatment always has to be completed, even if symptoms are cleared earlier.

Treatment with Nitrofurantoin might lead to unwanted side effects, for example cold-like symptoms such as coughing, fever and chest pain. Other common side effects include hives, rash, itchiness, chills, loss of appetite, diarrhoea and trouble breathing.

Less commonly patients might also observe headaches, dizziness and tiredness. Blood in urine or stool and uncommon nerve sensations like tingling, burning, numbness or pain might also occur.

Interactions with other medication

The concurrent treatment with Nitrofurantoin and other medicines can cause potentially dangerous interactions and influence the effect of the respective medicines. Please tell your prescribing doctor about all medication you currently use or recently finished, including over-the-counter products, before starting the treatment with Nitrofurantoin. Known interactions with Nitrofurantoin are for example caused by:

• antigout medication
• glaucoma medication
• quinolone antibiotics

The vaccine against typhoid might also interact with Nitrofurantoin and should be scheduled outside of the treatment time. Furthermore, antacids containing magnesium can decrease the absorption of Nitrofurantoin and therefore affect the effectiveness. The same applies to other medications affecting the function of the stomach.

Large quantities of alcohol should be avoided during the treatment with Nitrofurantoin as it might heighten the risk for side effects and intensify common side effects like nausea, vomiting or headaches.

If you want to buy Nitrofurantoin online you first need a valid prescription for the treatment. 121doc offers you a discreet and comfortable service to buy the medication safely online. You receive a free online consultation with one of our registered doctors. They will review your medical data and if there are no health concerns for the treatment with Nitrofurantoin they will write a valid prescription for your order and forward it to our pharmacy where your medication is packed securely and shipped with free next-day delivery for all orders before 4.30pm.

Please note that the medication Nitrofurantoin is available with different names (generics). The package you receive may be different from what is shown as product image. Regardless of packaging, the ingredient, usage, dosage and effects are always exactly the same.