Nitrofurantoin tablets 100mg

About Nitrofurantoin tablets 100mg

Nitrofurantoin Tablet Uses

• Treatment of uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (UTI) such as cystitis.
• Relief of burning urination, frequent urge to pass urine and lower abdominal discomfort from bladder infection.
• Prevention of recurrent UTIs with low dose, long term use, as prescribed.
• Use after urine tests confirm a sensitive bacterial infection.

Nitrofurantoin Tablet Benefits

• Works mainly in the urinary tract, where it reaches high levels.
• Short courses often bring relief within 1 to 2 days.
• Resistance remains lower than with several other common UTI antibiotics.

What Experts Say

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic that is concentrated in urine, where it damages bacterial DNA and stops the germs from growing. Because it stays mainly in the bladder, it is useful for simple cystitis but not for kidney infections. It works against common bladder bacteria such as E. coli. Many Pakistani women get cystitis, especially in hot weather with low water intake.

Taking it with food improves absorption and reduces nausea. Drinking plenty of water supports the flow of urine, and the full course should be finished even after symptoms settle. Urine may turn dark yellow or brown, which is harmless. Cranberry juice or extra water can ease mild symptoms but does not replace treatment.

It should be avoided in people with poor kidney function, in G6PD deficiency, and in infants under 3 months. Long term use can rarely affect the lungs, liver and nerves, so regular review is needed. Fever, flank pain or blood in urine suggests a deeper infection and needs a doctor.

Drug Class

• Antibacterial (nitrofuran urinary antiseptic)

Nitrofurantoin tablets 100mg formula

• Nitrofurantoin

Available forms

• Tablet

How to use Nitrofurantoin tablets 100mg?

• Adults: 50 to 100 mg four times daily with food for 5 to 7 days, or as prescribed.
• Take with meals or milk to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.
• Complete the full course, even if symptoms improve.
• Children's dose depends on body weight, so use only as directed by the doctor.

Drug Interactions

• Magnesium containing antacids: They can reduce nitrofurantoin absorption, so keep doses apart.
• Probenecid and sulfinpyrazone: They can raise blood levels and reduce its effect in urine.
• Quinolone antibiotics such as norfloxacin: They may reduce the antibacterial action of nitrofurantoin.
• Medicines that can harm the liver or lungs: Combined use raises the risk of toxicity.

Risks and warnings

• Kidney impairment: It is less effective and more likely to cause toxicity when kidney function is poor.
• G6PD deficiency: It can cause breakdown of red blood cells in this condition.
• Lung and liver reactions: Cough, breathlessness, fever or jaundice during use needs urgent review.
• Nerve damage: Long courses can cause numbness or tingling in hands and feet.
• Pregnancy and infants: It is not advised near term in pregnancy or in infants under 3 months.

Nitrofurantoin Tablets 100mg Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Dark yellow or brown urine
• Rash

Storage Conditions

• Store below 25 C in a dry place, away from heat and humidity.
• Keep tablets in the original pack until use.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.
• Keep out of reach of children.