Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Nitrofurantoin is indicated for the treatment or prevention of specific urinary tract infections. Nitrofurantoin functions as an antibiotic by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
This medication is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. Avoid unnecessary or excessive usage of antibiotics, as it may diminish their efficacy over time.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally with food or milk in accordance with your doctor’s instructions. Typically, this medication is administered four times per day to treat an infection or once daily at bedtime to prevent infections.
Swallow the medication whole and refrain from using magnesium trisilicate-containing antacids during its use. The absorption of nitrofurantoin may be hindered by magnesium trisilicate-containing antacids binding to it.
Dosage and treatment duration will be determined by your medical condition and response to therapy. In children, the dosage will also be based on their body weight. To maximize the effectiveness of this antibiotic, it should be taken at consistent intervals. To aid in remembering, ake this medication at the same time(s) daily.
If you are taking this medication to prevent infections, it is important to adhere to your doctor’s directions precisely. Do not miss doses or terminate use without your doctor’s approval.
If you experience symptoms of a new urinary tract infection, such as discomfort during urination, inform your physician.
If you are taking this medication to treat an infection, continue taking it until the entire prescribed amount has been consumed, even if your symptoms disappear within a few days. Discontinuing the medication too soon may allow bacteria to persist and lead to a relapse of the infection.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- heartburn or gas
- hair loss
- headache
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash
- hives
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the eyes, face, mouth, lips, tongue, or throat
- fever or chills
- chest pain
- persistent cough
- numbness, tingling, or pinprick sensation in the fingers and toes
- muscle weakness
- yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, loss of appetite, fatigue, or pain or discomfort in right upper stomach area
- confusion
- dizziness
- paleness
- severe diarrhea
- eye pain or vision changes
Caution
Prior to taking nitrofurantoin, please inform your physician or pharmacist of any allergies you may have, including allergies to this medication or any other substances. This product may include inactive components that could cause allergic reactions or other complications.
Disclose your medical history to your physician or pharmacist before using this medication, particularly if you have kidney disease, liver disease, G-6-PD deficiency (a specific genetic condition), anemia, lung diseases, peripheral neuropathy, optic neuritis (certain eye disorders), diabetes, untreated mineral imbalances, or vitamin B deficiency.
Nitrofurantoin can decrease the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine. Inform your healthcare professional that you are taking nitrofurantoin prior to receiving any immunizations or vaccinations.
The use of this medication in older adults may increase the likelihood of side effects, particularly nerve, liver, or lung problems.
During pregnancy, nitrofurantoin should only be used if it is clearly necessary. This medication should not be used during weeks 38-42 of pregnancy or near delivery due to the possibility of harm to the newborn. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your physician.
This medication can pass into breast milk and may cause negative effects in nursing infants who are less than one month old or who have G-6-PD deficiency. Consult with your physician prior to breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Macrodantin is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
nitrofurantoin capsule:
- 50mg
- 100mg
FAQ
Should Macrodantin be taken before or after meals?
Macrodantin capsules should be taken with food or milk. This will help to avoid stomach upset and also to help the absorption.
How long does Macrodantin take to work on a UTI?
If your symptoms improve within the first few days of taking Macrobid, you can tell it’s working. You should start to feel better after 3 to 5 days.
Resources
- https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/c20ad14a-d3a0-475d-ab3a-c87effd73d92.pdf
- https://healthmatch.io/kidney-disease/macrobid-for-kidney-infection#what-is-macrobid
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/nitrofurantoin-oral-route/description/drg-20065102
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5181/macrodantin-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682291.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/macrodantin.html
