Nitrofurantoin

What is it?

Composition

The composition of Nitrofurantoin capsules includes the active component nitrofurantoin in the form of macrocrystals, which improves its absorption and distribution in the body. This is especially important to ensure rapid and effective action of the antibiotic. Each capsule contains 100 mg of the active substance, which is a standard dosage for the treatment of cystitis.

In addition to the main active substance, the capsules include a number of auxiliary components that ensure the stability and safety of the drug. The use of auxiliary substances also helps to maintain the shape and structure of the capsules, which simplifies their administration and ensures ease of use. Among such substances, we can mention:

• gelatin - a form-forming substance for capsules;
• lactose - as a filler;
• magnesium stearate - to prevent components from sticking together;
• color additives depending on the manufacturer.

How to use?

The use of Nitrofurantoin requires adherence to a specific dosage and regimen, which contributes to optimal treatment. The general regimen involves using 100 mg capsules twice a day for a three-day course. This is the standard treatment for simple uncomplicated cystitis, which, when used correctly, allows you to solve the problem in the shortest possible time.

Before starting treatment, you should carefully read the recommendations and instructions for its use:

1. Take one capsule (100 mg) in the morning and evening, with an interval of 12 hours between doses.
2. Wash the capsule with plenty of water, and can also be taken with food or milk drinks to minimize possible gastrointestinal side effects.
3. Follow the entire course of treatment, even if the symptoms disappear earlier, to prevent relapse of the infection.

It is worth paying attention: if the symptoms do not disappear after completing a three-day course, or, on the contrary, become more complicated, you should consult a doctor.

How does it work?

The mechanism of action of Nitrofurantoin is based on its ability to disrupt the processes of synthesis of cellular components in bacteria, thus destroying the infection. The drug actively affects bacterial enzymes and proteins, which leads to the cessation of growth and reproduction of bacteria. Getting into the bladder, the antibiotic creates a high concentration of the active substance, which contributes to its effective action on the source of infection. Unlike many other antibiotics, Nitrofurantoin acts on a wide range of bacteria, but is especially effective against those that often cause cystitis. Its ability to act on the bacterial cell allows to significantly reduce the number of infections, which makes it a popular remedy among doctors and patients suffering from frequent relapses of this disease. Moreover, due to the specific mechanism of action, bacterial resistance to this antibiotic develops much more slowly compared to other drugs.

Indications

Nitrofurantoin is primarily used to treat urinary tract infections, especially cystitis, which is one of the most common infections among women. It is important to determine the indications for its use to ensure the effectiveness of treatment and minimize complications after its use.

The main indications include:

• recurrent cases of cystitis, when standard treatment regimens are less effective;
• acute and chronic forms of urinary tract infections;
• prevention of infections during catheterization;
• initial treatment until laboratory data confirming the nature of the infection are obtained.

When choosing an antibiotic, it is important to take into account the individual characteristics of the patient and the history of diseases to achieve the optimal therapeutic effect.

Contraindications

Despite the effectiveness of Nitrofurantoin, there are certain contraindications that should be taken into account before starting its use. Unfair neglect of these contraindications may lead to undesirable conditions or deterioration of the patients health.

Contraindications include:

• chronic renal failure or other serious kidney diseases;
• known hypersensitivity to nitrofurantoins;
• the first three months of pregnancy and the period of breastfeeding;
• prescribing the drug due to infection in men.

If one of these conditions is present, it is necessary to discuss alternative treatment with a doctor to exclude possible complications.

Side effects

Like any other medicine, Nitrofurantoin can cause side effects that you should be aware of in advance. Most of them are not dangerous and pass with the end of the course of treatment, but some may require medical intervention.

The main side effects include:

• gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea and diarrhea;
• allergic reactions, including skin rashes and itching;
• a change in the color of urine to dark yellow or brown is normal;
• rarely, more serious reactions may occur, such as difficulty breathing or swelling.

If you notice serious or prolonged side effects, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible for advice and, possibly, a change in the treatment regimen.