Macrobid for Urinary Tract Infection – How Effective Is It?

January 28, 2021

How effective is the antibiotic Macrobid (nitrofurantoin) for urinary tract infections? That depends partly upon which part of the urinary tract we are talking about. While suitable for some bladder infections, it is ineffective against kidney infections.

Nitrofurantoin is effective against the usual suspects causing urinary bladder infections:

  • Eschericia coli
  • Enterococci
  • Klebsiella
  • Staphylococcus saprophyticus
  • Enterobacter

Antibiotics lose their effectiveness over time because bacteria exposed to them evolve defenses against them. (This is why these drugs are used only when strictly needed).  Fortunately Macrobid remains effective against most bacterial bladder infections. In 2017 the United Kingdom’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommended Macrobid as a replacement for Bactrim, since a study of urinary tract infections found only 3% resistance to the former.

Nitrofurantoin is taken as an oral tablet in a dose of 100 mg twice a day for 7 days. It should be taken with food to avoid upset stomach.

 

Did you know? QuickMD can treat a urinary tract infection in the comfort of your own home, and prescribe Macrobid online.

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