Nitrofurantoin

About Nitrofurantoin

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antibiotics.

Nitrofurantoin used to treat urinary tract infections including the bladder and kidneys.

Nitrofurantoin is available in tablet and capsule form. It is also available in modified release preparations, which means nitrofurantoin is released slowly over the day to give a better effect.

It is also sometimes known as: Furadantin; Macrobid; Macrodantin; Urantoin. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Nitrofurantoin

Before taking nitrofurantoin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you have glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency or if you have a family history of this condition
• if you suffer from liver or kidney problems
• if you suffer from anaemia, diabetes, deficiencies of vitamin B or folic acid or porphyria (blood disorder)
• if you have lung problems or breathing difficulties
• if you suffer with circulatory problems, particularly in the hands and feet
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Nitrofurantoin

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• You must take nitrofurantoin at regular intervals and complete the course.
• Take nitrofurantoin with or just after food.
• If you have been supplied the modified release form of nitrofurantoin, swallow them whole (do not crush or chew) with a glass of water, unless directed otherwise by your doctor or pharmacist.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of nitrofurantoin contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside nitrofurantoin.
• If you are diabetic, you should be aware that this medicine might interfere with some urine tests for glucose. You may need to monitor your glucose levels with blood rather than urine tests. If you are diabetic, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
• Nitrofurantoin may colour your urine. This is completely harmless and no cause for concern.

Can Nitrofurantoin cause problems?

Along with their needed effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your pharmacist or doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Loss of appetite, nausea (feeling sick), vomiting (being sick) or diarrhoea.

Occasionally allergic-type reactions could occur such as nettle rash or swelling of the mouth or throat. If this occurs contact your doctor at once.

You should tell your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any other worrying side effects not mentioned in this leaflet.

How to store Nitrofurantoin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 14/07/2003