From the FDA Drug Label
nitrofurantoin (macrocrystals) The other name for Nitrofurantoin is nitrofurantoin (macrocrystals) 1
From the Research
Nitrofurantoin is also known by several brand names including Macrobid, Macrodantin, and Furadantin. These are the most common alternative names for this medication, which is an antibiotic primarily used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) 2. Nitrofurantoin works by killing bacteria in the urinary tract by damaging bacterial DNA, preventing bacteria from growing and multiplying. The medication concentrates in the urine, making it particularly effective for UTIs while having minimal impact on bacteria elsewhere in the body. This targeted action helps reduce side effects compared to broader-spectrum antibiotics.
Key Points
- Nitrofurantoin is typically prescribed as 100 mg capsules taken twice daily for 5-7 days for acute UTIs, or at lower doses (50-100 mg daily) for prophylaxis in patients with recurrent UTIs.
- Patients should take this medication with food to increase absorption and reduce stomach upset, and should complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
- According to a recent study, 50 mg nitrofurantoin may be a better option for daily prophylaxis due to its equivalent effectiveness and lower risk of side effects compared to 100 mg 3.
- The choice of nitrofurantoin dosage should be based on individual patient needs and medical history, and should be guided by the most recent and highest quality evidence available 4, 2.