From the Guidelines
Macrobid (nitrofurantoin) is generally considered safe for UTI treatment when trying to conceive, with a typical dosage of 100 mg taken orally twice daily for 5-7 days. According to the most recent and highest quality study, a 2019 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1, nitrofurantoin is a preferred agent for treating asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women due to its safety profile. The study suggests that a 4- to 7-day duration of antimicrobial therapy is reasonable, but the optimal duration may be antimicrobial-specific.
Key Considerations
- Macrobid is effective against most UTI-causing bacteria and concentrates well in the urinary tract, with a lower risk of causing antibiotic resistance compared to some other UTI treatments 1.
- While trying to conceive, it is essential to maintain good urinary hygiene, stay hydrated, and urinate after sexual intercourse to help prevent UTIs.
- If UTI symptoms occur, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial to avoid complications that could affect fertility or pregnancy.
Important Recommendations
- Always consult a doctor before taking any medication while trying to conceive, as they may prefer alternative antibiotics depending on specific situations and medical history.
- Complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure effective treatment and prevent antibiotic resistance.
- The 2011 guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the European Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases recommend nitrofurantoin monohydrate/macrocrystals as an appropriate choice for therapy due to minimal resistance and efficacy comparable to other treatments 1.
From the Research
Suitability of Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) for UTI Treatment in Individuals Trying to Conceive
- The evidence regarding the use of Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) for UTI treatment in individuals trying to conceive is mixed 2.
- According to a study published in 2011, sulfonamides and nitrofurantoin may continue to be used as first-line agents for the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections and other infections caused by susceptible organisms during the second and third trimesters 2.
- However, the same study suggests that prescribing sulfonamides or nitrofurantoin in the first trimester is still considered appropriate when no other suitable alternative antibiotics are available 2.
- A 2021 study found that preconception antibiotic use overall was not appreciably associated with fecundability, but the analysis did not specifically focus on Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) 3.
- Another study published in 2001 discusses the potential risks of drug use during pregnancy, but does not provide specific information on Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) 4.
- Other studies have investigated the effects of alcohol consumption and cannabis use on fertility, but these are not directly relevant to the use of Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) for UTI treatment in individuals trying to conceive 5, 6.
Key Findings
- Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) may be used for UTI treatment in individuals trying to conceive, but with caution and under medical supervision 2.
- The evidence on the association between preconception antibiotic use and fecundability is limited and inconclusive 3.
- More research is needed to fully understand the potential effects of Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) on fertility and pregnancy outcomes.