Nitrofurantoin

Nitrofurantoin is the first-line treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs) like cystitis. While it can be found as a generic brand, it is often sold under brand names such as Macrobid, Furadantin and Macrodantin.

When taken correctly, Nitrofurantoin effectively and quickly treats UTI symptoms, such as burning and needing to urinate more often.

At euroClinix, we offer the 100mg dose you take just twice a day for up to 4 days, with an online consultation and discreet delivery.

UTIs are usually caused by bacteria getting into the urinary tract. Nitrofurantoin kills bacteria and gets rid of the infection.

Nitrofurantoin is the first-line treatment for UTIs because of how it works in the body. When you take the antibiotic, your body quickly flushes it out of your bloodstream and into your urine.

Doing so focuses the drug on your urinary tract system and has a more targeted effect. This means it’s very effective for UTIs but not for any other type of infection.

Nitrofurantoin is suitable for most women with UTI symptoms. However, it may not be safe for some women to take it.

Do not take if you:

• are allergic to the ingredients
• have a serious kidney disease
• are in the final stages of pregnancy
• have a blood disorder called porphyria
• have a G6PD deficiency

While men can take Nitrofurantoin, they cannot be prescribed it online. This is because UTI symptoms in men are often more serious and should be discussed with a GP.

Others may need to check with their doctor first if you:

• are over the age of 65 and are experiencing symptoms for the first time
• have diabetes
• have anaemia, lack of vitamin B or abnormal salt levels in the blood
• have kidney or liver problems
• are pregnant or breastfeeding

If you are unsure about anything, always ask your healthcare provider. For a full list of interactions, check the patient information leaflet.

Nitrofurantoin with other medicines

Nitrofurantoin can also interact with other medicines, so check with your doctor before you take any of the following:

• antacids used for indigestion
• medicines for gout
• medicines for glaucoma
• medicines for reducing acidity in the urine
• certain antibiotics called quinolones (e.g. ciprofloxacin)
• the typhoid vaccine

If you take any other medications, not on this list, both prescription and over-the-counter, check with your doctor before taking antibiotics.

Nitrofurantoin comes in different doses. The recommended doses for treating bladder infections are 50 and 100mg. The 100mg tablets come as slow-release tablets, which means the drug enters your bloodstream slowly.

Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew your tablets because this may reduce their effectiveness.

How many times a day you take it will depend on what strength you take:

• 50mg tablets - take one tablet four times a day
• 100mg tablets - take one tablet twice a day

If you’re taking the 50mg, leave an even amount of time between each dose. You could take one early in the morning, at lunchtime, at dinner and then before you go to bed. With the 100mg tablets, allow for 12 hours between each dose.

You must complete the full course of antibiotics, even if you start to feel better. There are several risks of taking antibiotics incorrectly. Stopping treatment too soon can cause the infection to come back and become more difficult to treat.

How long does it take for Nitrofurantoin to work on a UTI?

For most women, it takes 3 days for the antibiotics to clear the UTI. However, some women may need longer - up to 7 days. Men will require treatment for 7 days.

If the infection has not cleared after the treatment has ended, contact your GP. You may require a urine test and an alternative medicine like Trimethoprim.

Can I drink on Nitrofurantoin?

You can drink alcohol whilst taking Nitrofurantoin. However, if you do experience any side effects from the drug, the effects of alcohol can make them worse (e.g. dizziness and nausea).

As with all medications, there is a chance that you may experience some side effects. However, the most common side effects are mild and go away once your body has gotten used to the treatment.

Some common side effects include:

• dark urine
• feeling or being sick
• diarrhoea
• loss of appetite
• headaches
• dizziness or tiredness

If any serious side effects occur, contact your doctor or seek medical attention as soon as possible.

You can buy 100mg Nitrofurantoin slow-release capsules online at euroClinix for cystitis. Our service is certified safe by the MHRA, GMC and GPhC. All you have to do is complete a medical questionnaire that will be reviewed by one of our online doctors. Once approved, our pharmacy will dispatch your treatment in discreet packaging with free next-day delivery.