Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic primarily used to treat and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections such as cystitis. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth, concentrating in the urine where the infection occurs
. It is effective against many common gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria causing UTIs and is considered a first-line treatment option due to its efficacy and low resistance patterns
. Nitrofurantoin is available in oral forms including capsules, tablets, and liquid suspension
. It is not effective against viral infections like colds or flu and should be used only for bacterial urinary infections
. Treatment courses typically last around 5 to 7 days, and it is important to complete the full course to prevent recurrence or resistance
. In summary, nitrofurantoin is used to treat and prevent bacterial urinary tract infections by killing bacteria in the urinary tract.
