Nitrofurantoin

Directions

Note: Follow the leaflet and GP instructions exactly.

• Treatment dose: 100mg capsule twice daily for 3–7 days

• Prevention dose: 50–100mg once daily at night

• Swallow whole with water, with or after food

Storage:

• Store below 25°C

• Keep in original blister pack

• Keep out of reach of children

Ingredients

• Active Ingredient:

  • Nitrofurantoin 100mg (as modified-release formulation)

• Other Ingredients May Include:

  • Sucrose

  • Talc

  • Gelatin (capsule shell)

  • Hypromellose

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Headache

• Diarrhoea

• Dark-coloured urine

Rare but serious:

• Lung reactions (cough, breathlessness)

• Liver dysfunction

• Peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain or tingling)

Seek medical attention if you develop a persistent cough, jaundice, or tingling in hands/feet.

Warnings

• Not suitable for patients with severe renal impairment

• Avoid during third trimester of pregnancy

• Use with caution in patients with anaemia or diabetes

• May interact with antacids, quinolones, and probenecid

Nitrofurantoin is a widely prescribed antibiotic specifically formulated to target bacterial infections of the urinary tract. It is highly effective against common UTI-causing bacteria such as E. coli and Enterococcus faecalis, and is often a first-choice treatment in uncomplicated UTIs.

Available as 100mg modified-release capsules, Nitrofurantoin is typically taken twice daily for 3 to 7 days, or once daily for long-term prevention of recurrent infections. The modified-release form allows for steady antibiotic levels, reducing the likelihood of missed doses and improving patient compliance.

This antibiotic acts directly in the urinary tract, making it less suitable for infections elsewhere in the body but ideal for bladder infections. It concentrates in the urine, delivering potent antibacterial action at the site of infection. Nitrofurantoin is generally well-tolerated, although some patients may experience gastrointestinal side effects.

How It Works

Nitrofurantoin interferes with bacterial cell metabolism, damaging their DNA and proteins. It is activated in the acidic environment of urine, allowing it to selectively target urinary pathogens without affecting the rest of the body.

Why Choose Nitrofurantoin

Proven first-line treatment for UTIs

High localised effectiveness in the urinary tract

Modified-release form for convenient twice-daily dosing

Suitable for treatment and long-term prevention

Trusted by NHS and widely prescribed across the UK

Important Note

Always complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms resolve early. Take with food to reduce nausea and improve drug levels in the urine.
Nitrofurantoin is not suitable for use in patients with significantly reduced kidney function (eGFR < 45ml/min), and it should not be used in late pregnancy.