From the Research
Uva ursi should not be used as a primary treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to its potential to increase symptom burden and safety concerns compared to antibiotic treatment, as shown in the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Points
- The typical dosage of uva ursi is 250-500 mg of standardized extract (containing 10% arbutin) taken 2-3 times daily for no more than 7-10 days.
- Uva ursi works because its active compound, arbutin, converts to hydroquinone in alkaline urine, which has antibacterial effects.
- For maximum effectiveness, users should maintain alkaline urine by avoiding acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar while taking it.
- Uva ursi is not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with kidney or liver disease.
- It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using uva ursi, especially if you're taking other medications, as it may interact with certain drugs including diuretics and NSAIDs.
Evidence Summary
The most recent and highest quality study 1 compared the effectiveness of uva ursi extract with fosfomycin in women with uncomplicated UTIs. The results showed that initial treatment with uva ursi reduced antibiotic use but led to a higher symptom burden and more safety concerns than fosfomycin. This study suggests that uva ursi may not be the best treatment option for UTIs due to its potential to increase symptom burden and safety concerns.
Recommendations
Based on the evidence, uva ursi should not be used as a primary treatment for UTIs. Instead, antibiotic treatment such as fosfomycin or nitrofurantoin may be more effective in reducing symptom burden and preventing complications. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for individual cases.