Nitrofurantoin 100mg

Nitrofurantoin 100mg — Uses and Benefits

Nitrofurantoin is commonly prescribed for infections affecting the bladder and urinary tract.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of acute urinary tract infections (UTIs) such as cystitis
• Long-term, low-dose use to prevent repeated UTIs in people who get them often
• Sometimes used before certain urinary procedures to prevent infection

HOW IT WORKS

• It is broken down inside bacteria into active substances
• These active substances damage the bacteria's DNA and proteins
• This stops the bacteria from growing and multiplying, clearing the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat kidney infections or infections that have spread to the blood
• It is not effective for infections outside the urinary tract, such as chest, throat or skin infections
• It does not work against viral infections like cold or flu
• It is not a painkiller and will not give immediate relief from burning urination

How to Use Nitrofurantoin 100mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food or milk to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not crush unless advised
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine
• Do not take antacids containing magnesium trisilicate at the same time as this medicine

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light and moisture
• Keep in the original container, tightly closed
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Nitrofurantoin 100mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Stomach upset or mild diarrhoea
• Urine may turn dark yellow or brown (harmless)

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Skin rash or itching
• Vaginal itching or discharge

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent dry cough
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, severe tiredness (signs of liver problems)
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet
• Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face/lips/throat, severe rash, or difficulty breathing
• Signs of a new infection, high fever, or unusual bruising/bleeding

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Nitrofurantoin 100mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to nitrofurantoin or any of its ingredients
• Have significantly reduced kidney function or are on dialysis
• Are in the last weeks of pregnancy or in labour
• Are breastfeeding a baby less than one month old

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any kidney or liver disease
• Have a condition called G6PD deficiency
• Have any lung disease or nerve problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are diabetic, as this medicine can affect certain urine sugar test results

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Antacids containing magnesium trisilicate
• Probenecid or sulfinpyrazone (used for gout)
• Other medicines that can affect the kidneys or nerves
• Certain antibiotics like fluoroquinolones (may reduce effectiveness of each other)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop the medicine once my symptoms improve?

No, complete the full course as prescribed to fully clear the infection and prevent resistance.

Will this medicine change the colour of my urine?

Yes, it commonly turns urine dark yellow or brown, which is harmless.

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

• It should only be used in pregnancy if your doctor feels it is clearly necessary, and not near delivery.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.