Indications
Nitrofur SR is primarily used for the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by susceptible bacterial strains, including Escherichia coli, Enterococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, as well as certain strains of Klebsiella and Enterobacter species.
Always use Nitrofur SR as directed by a registered healthcare professional.
Pharmacology
Nitrofurantoin is an effective antibacterial medication specifically targeted at treating urinary tract infections. It is highly soluble in urine, which may result in a brown discoloration. Nitrofurantoin works by disrupting bacterial ribosomal proteins and other cellular macromolecules, rendering bacteria inactive. It is proven to be effective against a variety of bacterial strains, including:
Gram-Positive Bacteria:
- Staphylococcus saprophyticus
- Coagulase-negative staphylococci (e.g., Staphylococcus epidermidis)
- Enterococcus faecalis
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Streptococcus agalactiae
- Group D Streptococci
- Viridans group Streptococci
Gram-Negative Bacteria:
- Escherichia coli
- Citrobacter amalonaticus
- Citrobacter diversus
- Citrobacter freundii
- Klebsiella oxytoca
- Klebsiella ozaenae
Dosage Instructions
For Nitrofurantoin Tablets (Adults):
- Uncomplicated UTIs: 50-100 mg, four times a day (the lower dosage is preferred). Continue treatment for one week, or at least three days after achieving sterile urine.
- Long-term Suppression: 50-100 mg taken at bedtime may be sufficient.
For Nitrofurantoin Capsules (Adults):
- Acute Uncomplicated UTIs: 50 mg, four times daily for 7 days.
- Long-term Prophylaxis: 50-100 mg once daily.
- Post-procedure Prophylaxis: 50 mg, four times daily, starting from the procedure day and continuing for three days afterward.
For Nitrofurantoin SR Capsules:
- Adults & Children (12+ years): 100 mg capsule every 12 hours for 7 days.
- Surgical Prophylaxis (Genitourinary): One capsule twice daily on the day of surgery and for the next 3 days.
For Nitrofurantoin Suspension (Children):
- Dosage based on weight (Contraindicated for infants under 1 month):
- 7-11 kg: 2.5 ml (½ teaspoon) 4 times daily.
- 12-21 kg: 5 ml (1 teaspoon) 4 times daily.
- 22-30 kg: 7.5 ml (1½ teaspoons) 4 times daily.
- 31-41 kg: 10 ml (2 teaspoons) 4 times daily.
Continue treatment for one week, or until sterile urine is achieved. For long-term suppression, lower doses of 1 mg/kg per day may be effective.
Consult your healthcare provider for proper dosing advice.
Administration
Nitrofurantoin should be taken with food to improve absorption.
Always follow the advice of a registered healthcare professional when using this medication.
Drug Interactions
- Antacids containing Magnesium Trisilicate can reduce the absorption of Nitrofur SR.
- Uricosuric Drugs (e.g., Probenecid, Sulfinpyrazone) may impair Nitrofurantoin’s renal clearance.
Contraindications
Nitrofur SR should not be used by individuals with:
- Anuria or oliguria (reduced urine production)
- Significant renal impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to Nitrofurantoin
- Pregnant women during labor, delivery, or in the 38-42 week gestation period
Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Flatulence
Less common side effects include: - Diarrhea
- Dyspepsia
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Dizziness and drowsiness
Pregnancy & Lactation
- Pregnancy Category B: Nitrofurantoin should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. There are no adequate studies in pregnant women.
- Nitrofurantoin can pass into breast milk in trace amounts. Caution is advised, especially for breastfeeding infants under one month, as it may cause serious adverse effects.
Precautions & Warnings
- Discontinue Nitrofur SR if acute, sub-acute, or chronic pulmonary reactions occur.
- Antacids containing magnesium trisilicate should be avoided during treatment.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, symptoms may include vomiting. Inducing vomiting is recommended.
Therapeutic Class
Systemic Urinary Anti-Infective
Storage Conditions
Store Nitrofurantoin at temperatures below 30°C. Keep away from light and ensure it is out of reach of children.
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