Nitrofurantoin

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic medication used in treating urinary tract infections and other types of bacterial infections.

This medication should not be used by children below one month of age as it may cause hemolytic anemia, a type of blood problem.

How do I use Nitrofurantoin?

Nitrofurantoin is an oral medication in capsule form, taken with food or milk as directed by your doctor. Nitrofurantoin is usually taken four times daily to break any infection.

While using nitrofurantoin, avoid using magnesium trisilicate containing antacids as they bind with Nitrofurantoin and prevent its full absorption.

The dosage of Nitrofurantoin is usually based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and your body weight.

What are the side effects of Nitrofurantoin?

Side effects of Nitrofurantoin include:

• Nausea

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting

• Headache

• Lung problems

• persistent cough

• Chest pain

• shortness of breath

• joint pain

• muscle pain

• bluish skin

• other unlisted side effects

Should you notice any of these side effects or they persist, inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

What precautions should I follow when using Nitrofurantoin?

• Inform your doctor of any allergies that you may have

• Inform your doctor of any prescription medication or supplements you may be using, especially antibiotics

• inform your doctor of any kidney or liver disease or anemia

• This medication may make you drowsy, thus do not operate any machinery when using this medication

• Nitrofurantoin may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, thus wear protective clothing if you plan on being in the sunlight while using nitrofurantoin.