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Nitrofurantoin

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Pronounced

"NYE-trow-fyour-AN-toe-in"

Common brand names:

Furatine, Macrodantin

Uses

This medication is used to treat or prevent certain urinary tract infections.

This medication is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

Nitrofurantoin should not be used by children less than one month of age due to the risk of a certain blood problem (hemolytic anemia).

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth with food or milk as directed by your doctor. This medication is usually taken four times daily to treat an infection or once daily at bedtime to prevent infections. Swallow the medication whole. Avoid using magnesium trisilicate-containing antacids while taking this medication. Magnesium trisilicate-containing antacids bind with nitrofurantoin, preventing its full absorption.

The dosage and duration is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight.

For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time(s) every day.

When taking this medication to prevent infection, take it exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop taking it without your doctor's approval. Inform your doctor if you notice signs of a new urinary tract infection (such as pain while you are urinating).

If you are taking this medication to treat an infection, continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

Inform your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

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Information expires December 2025.