Nitrofurantoin (By Mouth)

Treats urinary tract infections. Belongs to a class of drugs called antibiotics.

Brand Name(s):

Macrobid
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to nitrofurantoin, furazolidone (Furoxone®), or nitrofurazone (Furacin®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often.
• Shake the oral liquid just before each use.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.
• It is best to take this medicine with food or milk. The oral liquid may be mixed with infant formula, water, or fruit juices.

If a dose is missed:

• If you take your medicine 3 times or more every day and you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as possible, and space your next two doses 2 to 4 hours apart.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep your medicine at room temperature, away from heat or light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Avoid taking antacids, probenecid (Benemid®), or nalidixic acid (NegGram®) while taking nitrofurantoin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Nitrofurantoin may cause incorrect results with some urine sugar tests.
• You may notice a brownish color in your urine while using this medicine.
• Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to. If you stop taking it too soon, your infection may return.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Wheezing or trouble breathing
• Swelling of the face, throat, or lips
• Rash, itching, or hives

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Numbness, weakness, or tingling of arms or legs

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.