Nitrofurantoin 25 mg 50 mg 100 mg Oral Suspension 25 mg per 5 mL

What is Nitrofurantoin?

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic used to treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections confined to the bladder. It is commonly chosen for acute cystitis in otherwise healthy adults because it concentrates in the urine where the bacteria live and has a low rate of resistance among typical urinary pathogens. Nitrofurantoin is not appropriate for kidney infections with fever or flank pain or for infections that need deep tissue penetration.

Available strengths include 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg capsules and an oral suspension at 25 mg per 5 mL. Many people receive nitrofurantoin macrocrystals monohydrate 100 mg taken twice daily for 5 days. Others may use macrocrystals 50 mg to 100 mg four times daily for 5 to 7 days when prescribed. Taking doses with food improves absorption and reduces stomach upset.

Patients often compare pharmacy prices and look for cheap generic nitrofurantoin to complete the full course without interruption. Some buy refills online from licensed pharmacies when a clinician recommends standby therapy for recurrent cystitis. Even when buying online, use must follow a prescription and the exact dosing plan your clinician sets.

How It Works

Nitrofurantoin is reduced by bacterial enzymes inside susceptible organisms. Those reduction products damage bacterial DNA and essential metabolic pathways, leading to bacterial death. Because the drug concentrates in the urine and not in blood or kidney tissue, it is highly effective for infections limited to the bladder but not for infections that have spread to the kidneys or prostate.

After an oral dose with food, active levels appear in urine within a few hours. Most patients notice symptom relief during the first 24 to 48 hours as burning with urination eases and urgency declines. It is important to complete the entire course even if symptoms improve early to reduce the chance of relapse or resistance.

What to expect day to day

During treatment, urine may look darker brown. This color change is expected and harmless. Hydration and timely bathroom trips help comfort. If fever, back pain, or nausea develop, contact a clinician since these can signal an infection that requires a different antibiotic plan.

Dosage Information

Dosing is individualized by a clinician based on symptoms, allergy history, pregnancy status, and kidney function. Follow the label on your bottle exactly and finish the full course.

• Macrobid regimen: 100 mg by mouth twice daily for 5 days. Take with food.
• Macrodantin regimen: 50 mg to 100 mg by mouth four times daily for 5 to 7 days as prescribed. Take with food.
• Oral suspension: 25 mg per 5 mL. Shake well and use a marked syringe or cup. Dosing volume is calculated by a clinician.

Kidney function and suitability

Nitrofurantoin relies on kidney function to reach the urine. Your clinician will review recent labs to decide if it is appropriate. When kidney function is too low, alternative antibiotics are used.

Missed dose and timing

If a dose is missed, take it when remembered unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double up. Space doses evenly during waking hours. Taking with a meal or snack helps reduce nausea.

Buying and cost tips

Generic nitrofurantoin is widely available. It is reasonable to buy refills online from licensed pharmacies when a clinician provides a standing prescription for recurrent cystitis. Cheap pricing is acceptable when the listing clearly shows the formulation, strength, and a United States pharmacy address and phone support.

Side Effects

Most people tolerate nitrofurantoin well. Common effects include nausea, decreased appetite, and headache. Taking doses with meals and staying hydrated can improve comfort. Urine may appear brown, which is expected and not harmful.

Less common but important

• Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, or swelling require medical advice. Breathing difficulty needs urgent care.
• Pulmonary reactions: Sudden cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath can occur, usually early in therapy. Stop the medicine and seek care if these appear.
• Liver signals: Unusual fatigue, right upper belly pain, dark urine with pale stools, or yellowing of the skin or eyes need prompt evaluation.
• Neuropathy: Numbness or tingling in hands or feet is rare but requires medical review, especially in people with diabetes or vitamin deficiency.
• Blood effects: People with glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency can develop hemolytic anemia. Symptoms include sudden fatigue, pale skin, or dark cola colored urine. Seek care immediately if these occur.

If vomiting is persistent, fever appears, or symptoms worsen after 48 hours, contact a clinician to reassess the plan.

Warnings & Interactions

Do not use nitrofurantoin for fever with flank pain since it does not reach effective levels in kidney tissue. It is not appropriate for suspected sepsis or prostatitis. People with a history of severe lung reactions to this medicine should not take it again. Those with glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency should avoid it because of hemolysis risk. Near term pregnancy and newborns have higher risk of hemolysis; decisions in pregnancy and breastfeeding should be individualized by a clinician.

Kidney and liver considerations

Use depends on adequate kidney function. Your clinician may choose a different antibiotic if kidney function is reduced. Report any history of chronic liver disease. Periodic review is advised if repeated courses are used for recurrences.

Drug and product interactions

• Magnesium trisilicate antacids: Can reduce absorption. Avoid taking together.
• Probenecid and sulfinpyrazone: May alter levels and reduce urinary concentrations. Clinicians usually avoid the combination.
• Urine tests: Some tests may be affected by urine discoloration. Inform lab staff if needed.

Practical safety tips

Start the antibiotic as soon as prescribed and complete the course. Use backup contraception if vomiting or diarrhea could affect pill absorption. If you buy nitrofurantoin online, confirm the exact formulation and strength match your prescription and check the expiration date on delivery. Cheap options are fine when the pharmacy is licensed and provides counseling. If symptoms return within a few weeks after finishing a course, contact a clinician for culture testing and a tailored plan.