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What is nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin)?
Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic that is used for treating urinary tract infections caused by several types of bacteria. It is effective against E. Coli, Enterobacter cystitis, Enterococcus, Klebsiella, and Staphylococcus aureus. Nitrofurantoin interferes with the production of bacterial proteins, DNA, and cell walls. Bacteria cannot survive without a cell wall or multiply without DNA.
Three forms of nitrofurnatoin are available:
- Furadantin, a microcrystalline form,
- Macrodantin, a macrocrystalline, and
- Macrobid, a sustained release form of macrocrystalline used twice daily.
The macrocrystalline form is more slowly absorbed than the microcrystalline form and is useful for patients who cannot tolerate the microcrystalline form.
What brand names are available for nitrofurantoin?
- Macrobid, Macrodantin, and Furadantin are the brands available for nitrofurantoin in the US.
- The brand names Ivadantin and Furalan have been discontinued in the US.
Is nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin) available as a generic drug?
Yes
Do I need a prescription for nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin)?
Yes
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Is nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin) safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
- Although there are no adequate studies of nitrofurantoin in pregnant women, many women have safely used it during pregnancy. However, nitrofurantoin should not be used near the time of delivery (38-42 weeks gestation) since it interferes with the immature enzyme systems in the red blood cells of newborns, damaging the cells and resulting in anemia.
- Nitrofurantoin is distributed into breast milk and should be used with caution in women who are breastfeeding.
What else should I know about nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin)?
What preparations of nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin) are available?
- Capsules: 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg.
- Oral suspension: 25 mg/5 ml.
How should I keep nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin) stored?
- All formulations should be kept at room temperature, 15 C TO 30 C (59 F to 86 F).
When was nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin) approved by the FDA?
- The FDA approved nitrofurantoin in 1953.