From the FDA Drug Label
That fosfomycin tromethamine granules for oral solution can be taken with or without food That their symptoms should improve in two to three days after taking fosfomycin tromethamine granules for oral solution; if not improved, the patient should contact her health care provider.
Symptom relief of a UTI with fosfomycin is expected to occur within 2 to 3 days after taking the medication 1.
From the Research
Fosfomycin typically provides symptom relief from a urinary tract infection (UTI) within 2-3 days after taking the single-dose treatment, though some patients may notice improvement within 24 hours. The standard regimen is one 3-gram sachet of fosfomycin tromethamine (Monurol) dissolved in water and taken by mouth as a one-time dose. For best results, take it on an empty stomach (about 2-3 hours after eating) and preferably before bedtime to maximize the drug's concentration in the urinary tract.
Key Points to Consider
- While symptoms often improve quickly, it's essential to understand that the medication continues working in your system for several days after the single dose.
- If symptoms persist beyond 3 days or worsen at any point, contact your healthcare provider as this could indicate the infection is resistant to fosfomycin or that another condition is present.
- Fosfomycin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, specifically targeting the enzymes that bacteria need to build their protective outer layer, which makes it effective against many common UTI-causing bacteria including E. coli, as supported by studies such as 2.
Efficacy and Safety
- A systematic review and meta-analysis found no significant differences in clinical and microbiological cure rates between fosfomycin and nitrofurantoin for the treatment of uncomplicated UTI in women, with both treatments being effective and safe 3.
- Another study demonstrated that fosfomycin resulted in clinical cure rates of 87% and 94% at 48 hours and 14 days, respectively, in patients with UTIs due to multidrug-resistant bacteria 2.
Administration and Dosage
- The recommended dosage of fosfomycin is a single 3-gram dose, which can be taken orally as a one-time dose.
- It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize potential side effects.
Potential Side Effects and Interactions
- Common side effects of fosfomycin include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea, as reported in studies such as 4.
- It is crucial to discuss any potential interactions with other medications or underlying medical conditions with your healthcare provider before taking fosfomycin.