Nitrofurantoin

Question 1

What is it indicated for?

Answer 1

It is first-line for uncomplicated lower UTI

Prophylaxis of recurrent UTIs

Question 2

What is the spectrum of activity?

Answer 2

Active against most organisms that cause uncomplicated UTIs

Question 3

How does it work?

Answer 3

Its active metabolite damages bacterial DNA

Question 4

What are the side effects of this drug?

Answer 4

GI upset
Immediate and delayed hypersensitivity
Can turn urine dark yellow or brown
Chronic pulmonary reactions
Hepatic and peripheral neuropathy

In neonates haemolytic anaemia

Question 5

What are the warnings for this drug?

Answer 5

Should not be prescribed in pregnant women towards term or babies in the first 3 months of life or people with G6PD deficiency

Contraindicated in renal impairment

Caution in long-term use of preventing UTI due to risk of pulmonary, hepatic and neurological effects

Question 6

What drugs does it interact with?

Answer 6

Use in caution with drugs that cause peripheral neuropathy such as amiodarone, isoniazid, metronidazole, and phenytoin.