Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)
100 mg
Stop: Call 911 or get emergency help
Trouble breathing; lip/tongue swelling; severe weakness or shortness of breath; fast heartbeat; yellow skin/eyes; or watery/bloody diarrhea.
Seek medical help first
Use this information only if you are unable to contact your provider. Then, contact your provider as soon as possible.
What it may treat & how much to take
- 1
Bladder infection (UTI)
Burning; frequent or urgent urination; lower-belly pressure; cloudy or smelly urine. No fever or back pain.
Take 1 capsule twice a day for 5 days.
- 2
Bladder infection if pregnant
Same bladder-infection signs.
Take 1 capsule twice a day for 5 to 7 days. Contact your provider. Do not use at 38+ weeks or if labor may start.
- 3
To prevent repeat bladder infections
2+ bladder infections in 6 months, or 3+ in 1 year.
1 capsule at bedtime daily only if your provider told you this ahead of time. Long-term use needs follow-up.
How to take it
Always take with food, about 12 hours apart, with a full glass of water. Do not use antacids containing magnesium.
Important information
Not for kidney infection. Fever, chills, one-sided back pain, vomiting, or feeling very sick needs urgent care.
Common side effects
Nausea or vomiting, reduced appetite, headache, gas or loose stools, dizziness or tiredness. Dark urine is harmless.
Do not take if
Allergic to nitrofurantoin; little/no urine or significant kidney disease; labor or 38+ weeks pregnant; prior liver injury from this drug; G6PD deficiency.
Ask your provider or pharmacist first if
Kidney problems, anemia, diabetes, lung disease, nerve damage, electrolyte imbalance, or long-term use.
If pregnant or breastfeeding
Often used for bladder infections in pregnancy. Call a doctor first. Do not use in labor or at 38+ weeks.