Nitrofurantoin — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide

Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database

About Nitrofurantoin

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic specifically for lower UTIs. It concentrates in the urinary tract and is not effective for kidney infections (pyelonephritis). Should be avoided in late pregnancy (after 36 weeks) due to risk of neonatal haemolysis.

Also sold as: Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin

Drug class Nitrofuran antibiotic
Used for UTIs (lower only), UTI prophylaxis
Max adult dose 50mg four times daily (standard release) or 100mg twice daily (modified release)
OTC in UK Prescription only

Nitrofurantoin and Alcohol

🟡 USE WITH CAUTION

Avoid alcohol with nitrofurantoin — it worsens common side effects and impairs your recovery from a UTI.

Full guide →

Nitrofurantoin in Pregnancy

🟡 USE WITH CAUTION

Nitrofurantoin is the usual UTI antibiotic through most of pregnancy — but it's avoided from around 36 weeks because of a newborn anaemia risk.

Full guide →

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