Nitrofurantoin

A long-acting medication, nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic used for the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs). It is sold under the brand names Macrobid, Furadantin, and Macrodantin. These medications come in different forms (liquid, regular capsules, or slow-release capsules) and are typically taken two to four times a day. Possible side effects include vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite.

What Is Nitrofurantoin?

Nitrofurantoin (Furadantin®, Macrobid®, Macrodantin®) is a prescription antibiotic approved to treat and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). It comes in three forms -- a liquid form (Furadantin), a regular capsule form (Macrodantin), and a slower-release capsule form (Macrobid).
 
(Click What Is Nitrofurantoin Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with nitrofurantoin. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are treated easily by your healthcare provider.
 
Possible side effects of this drug include but are not limited to:
 
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite.
     
(Click Nitrofurantoin Side Effects to learn more.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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