Nitrofurantoin Tablets
Acute Cystitis, Urinary Tract Infections
50mg · 100mg
Nitrofurantoin tablets for bladder infections and other UTIs. It concentrates in the urine to act directly on the bacteria.
From$0.87/ tabletView
Nitrofurantoin
Nitrofurantoin, an Antibiotics medicine sold as Macrodantin and as generic tablets, treats uncomplicated Acute Cystitis and other lower urinary tract infections. One product sits on this shelf: Nitrofurantoin Tablets in 50 mg and 100 mg.
Key points
- Several major guidelines recommend nitrofurantoin as the first treatment for uncomplicated lower Urinary Tract Infections.
- Nitrofurantoin is not suitable if you have significant kidney problems (creatinine clearance below 60 mL/min), are in the last month of pregnancy, or are treating a baby under one month old.
- Macrodantin is the brand-name version; the generic tablets contain the same active ingredient.
How does nitrofurantoin work?
Inside bacteria, nitrofurantoin is converted into reactive compounds that block the cell’s ability to copy DNA, build RNA, and assemble its outer wall. This broad attack may explain why resistance to nitrofurantoin remains rare.
Further reading
What is nitrofurantoin used for?
Nitrofurantoin is used to treat uncomplicated acute cystitis and other lower urinary tract infections.
What does nitrofurantoin do to bacteria?
Inside bacteria, nitrofurantoin is converted into reactive compounds that interfere with DNA copying, RNA production and outer wall assembly. It also damages ribosomal proteins and DNA in susceptible bacterial cells.
How long does nitrofurantoin take to start working?
Nitrofurantoin starts working within 2 to 4 hours. Its effects last for 6 to 8 hours.
What are the side effects of nitrofurantoin?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Headache, urine discolouration and diarrhoea can also occur. Serious side effects such as severe pulmonary fibrosis, acute hepatitis caused by the drug and peripheral neuropathy need immediate medical attention.
Who should not take nitrofurantoin?
It is not suitable if you have significant kidney problems, including severe renal impairment or anuria, or a creatinine clearance below 60 mL/min. It should also not be used in the last month of pregnancy or in infants under one month old.
What nitrofurantoin products are available?
On Direct Meds, nitrofurantoin comes as Nitrofurantoin Tablets. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
What brand names is nitrofurantoin sold under?
Nitrofurantoin is also sold under brand names such as Macrodantin. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare products.
How much does nitrofurantoin cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is nitrofurantoin available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order nitrofurantoin. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver nitrofurantoin to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →