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Nitrofurantoin Coupon - Nitrofurantoin 100mg capsule

nitrofurantoin

Generic Macrobid
Used for Urinary Tract Infection
Used for Urinary Tract Infection

Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) is an antibiotic used to treat or prevent a urinary tract infection (UTI). Some side effects include nausea, headache, and gas. It can also make your urine turn dark yellow or brown. Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) doesn't have many interactions with other medications. There's a lower-cost generic version of nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) available.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Sean Moshrefi, PharmD
Last reviewed on April 12, 2023
basics-icon

What is Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)?

What is Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) used for?

  • Treatment or prevention of urinary tract infections

How Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) works

Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) is a nitrofuran antibiotic. The medication collects in your urine. It kills bacteria in the urinary tract by damaging or blocking proteins the bacteria need to survive.

When does Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsMacrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin
Drug ClassNitrofuran antibiotic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) essentials

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What are the side effects of Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea (8%)
  • Headache (6%)
  • Gas (2%)

Other Side Effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Upset stomach
  • Stomach pain
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Itchiness
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • "Pins and needles" feeling in the arms and legs

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe allergic reaction: hives, rash, muscle aches, chills, fever, swelling of the lips or tongue, difficulty breathing
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Trouble breathing or new or worsening cough
  • Liver problems: stomach bloating, severe stomach pain with vomiting, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, dark urine
When do Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Nausea and vomiting
Poor appetite
Diarrhea
Brown-colored urine

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Changes in facial skin color

chest pain

chills

cough

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

hives

hoarseness

itching

joint or muscle pain

shortness of breath

skin rash

sudden trouble in swallowing or breathing

swelling of the face, mouth, hands, or feet

troubled breathing

Less common

Black, tarry stools

blood in the urine or stools

burning, numbness, tingling, or painful sensations

dizziness

drowsiness

headache

pinpoint red spots on the skin

sore throat

unsteadiness or awkwardness

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet

Rare

Abdominal or stomach pain

blindness

blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin and mucous membranes

blue-yellow color blindness

bluish color of the fingernails, lips, skin, palms, or nail beds

blurred vision or loss of vision, with or without eye pain

bulging soft spot on the head of an infant

change in the ability to see colors, especially blue or yellow

confusion

cracks in the skin

darkening of the urine

decreased vision

diarrhea

diarrhea, watery and severe, which may also be bloody

eye pain

general tiredness and weakness

light-colored stools

loss of appetite

loss of heat from the body

mental depression

mood or mental changes

nausea or vomiting

pale skin

pale stools

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

red, irritated eyes

red, swollen skin

red, thickened, or scaly skin

skin rash

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

swollen or painful glands

tenderness of salivary glands

unpleasant breath odor

upper right abdominal pain

visual changes

vomiting of blood

wheezing or tightness in the chest

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Diarrhea

gas

Incidence not known

Dizziness or lightheadedness

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

lack or loss of strength

loss of hair, temporary

sensation of spinning

uncontrolled eye movements

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)

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Pros

Works well to treat and prevent UTIs

Available as both a capsule and a flavored oral suspension

Safe to take if you're allergic to other antibiotics like penicillin or sulfa medications (e.g., Bactrim, Septra (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim))

thumbs-down

Cons

Might need to take up to four times a day (depending on the formulation)

Can interact with certain types of antacids, travel vaccines, and lab tests

Can harm your lungs, liver, and nerves if taken for a long period of time

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)

pharmacist
  • Finish all of the nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) your healthcare provider prescribed for you, even if you start to feel better. Stopping the antibiotic too soon can cause your infection to come back and be harder to treat.

    • Take nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) with food. This helps your body absorb the medication properly and lessen stomach-related side effects.

      • Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) can turn your urine a dark yellow or brown color. This is harmless and will disappear when you stop the medication.

        • If you have mild diarrhea after taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid), remember to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. You can also try taking probiotic supplements to help lessen this side effect. Separate the probiotic from nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) by at least 2 hours. This prevents the antibiotic from killing the "good" bacteria found in the probiotic and allows the probiotic to work as it should.

          • Avoid taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) at the same time as any antacids, supplements, or multivitamins containing magnesium. These products can prevent your body from absorbing the antibiotic well.

            • For the liquid form: Shake the bottle well before using it. Be sure to use a medication dose cup, spoon, or oral syringe to measure out your dose. Using household teaspoons might cause you or your child to take the wrong amount of nitrofurantoin (Macrobid).

              • If you're pregnant, make sure your provider knows your due date. Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) might harm your unborn baby if it's taken within the last 2 to 4 weeks of your pregnancy.

                • If you're breastfeeding a baby who's younger than 1 month of age, speak with your provider about the risks and benefits of taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid). There's a potential risk that the medication can cause harm to your baby.

                  More on Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) tips

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)

                  How long does nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) take to work on a UTI?
                  Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) is usually prescribed for 7 days to treat a urinary tract infection (UTI). Some people might start to feel some relief within a couple of days of treatment. But even if your symptoms are improving, be sure to finish all of the medication your provider has prescribed for you. This helps make sure all the bacteria have been killed and your infection is completely cleared up.
                  Is nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) a sulfa drug?
                  No. You might be thinking of Septra or Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim), a common antibiotic that's a sulfa drug also used to treat UTIs. Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) isn't a sulfa drug so it would be a safe option for people with a sulfa allergy to take.
                  How long do nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) side effects last?
                  Most side effects from nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) usually only last for about as long as your antibiotic course (typically 7 days). Some side effects that you might experience include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. There are some things you can do to help manage these side effects. Take nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) with food to help with nausea or stomach upset. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration if you have diarrhea or vomit. Your pharmacist can also recommend over-the-counter medications that might help with these side effects. If you continue to have side effects from nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) after finishing your treatment course, speak with your provider.
                  What happens if you take nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) without food?
                  Taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) without food might cause your body to absorb less medication. This means that it might take longer to treat your infection. Food helps your body absorb nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) better. Taking the antibiotic with food can also help lessen or prevent possible side effects, like upset stomach and diarrhea.
                  Can you drink while taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)?
                  It's not known whether you can drink alcohol while you're taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid). But it might be best to avoid alcohol until your UTI is all cleared up. This is because alcohol can irritate your bladder and cause more discomfort. Speak with your provider about your drinking habits while you're taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid). In general, make sure to stay hydrated if you have a UTI. Drinking a lot of water will help flush out the bacteria in your urinary tract.
                  Who shouldn't take nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)?
                  Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) might not be the best option for you if you have a history of severe liver problems, kidney problems, or if you're urinating less than usual or not at all. You might be at higher risk of certain side effects from the antibiotic. If you're in the last 2 to 4 weeks of a pregnancy, don't take nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) because it's possible for the antibiotic to cause harm to an unborn baby during this time period. In addition, some versions of nitrofurantoin aren't approved for use in certain age groups of children; there haven't been enough studies to see how safe and how well the antibiotic works for these children. Macrobid and its generics aren't FDA approved for use in children under 12 years old, while Macrodantin capsules, Furadantin oral suspension, and their generics aren't FDA approved for use in children under 1 month of age.
                  What type of bacteria does nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) kill?
                  Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) kills bacteria that most often cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). It generally targets bacterial strains of Escherichia coli (or E. coli), Klebsiella, Enterococci, and Staphylococcus species. Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) only kills bacteria in the urinary tract and won't work for infections found in other areas of the body.
                  Is nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) safe in pregnancy?
                  Discuss with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) if you're pregnant. It might depend on how far along you are in your pregnancy. There's mixed information about whether nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) is safe during the first trimester. So, it's best to avoid this antibiotic early in pregnancy, unless it's the only option available. Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) might be okay to use in the second and most of the third trimester of pregnancy. But if you're in your last 2 to 4 weeks of pregnancy, don't take nitrofurantoin (Macrobid); there's a potential risk that this antibiotic can harm an unborn baby during that time. If you're pregnant, ask your healthcare provider if they have other recommendations to treat your UTI.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)?

                  Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Lung damage

                  • Risk factors: Using nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) for 6 months or longer

                    In some rare cases, nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) can damage your lungs. Your risk is higher if you're taking this medication for more than 6 months. Talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you're having difficulty breathing or have a new cough that doesn't go away.

                    risk-warning

                    Liver damage

                    • Risk factors: History of liver problems

                      Very rarely, some people taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) have had severe or life-threatening liver damage. Your risk might be higher if you have or have had liver problems. If you experience unexplained stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, pale stools, or yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes, contact your healthcare provider right away. You'll likely need to get blood tests done so your provider can check your liver health.

                      risk-warning

                      Nerve damage (neuropathy)

                      • Risk factors: Kidney problems | Low number of red blood cells (anemia) | Low vitamin B levels | Electrolyte imbalances | High blood sugar (diabetes)

                        Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) can damage the nerves in your arms, legs, and rarely eyes. This effect isn't very common, but certain medical conditions, including kidney problems, can raise your risk of this happening. In some cases, the damage is permanent. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience numbness, tingling, or a prickling sensation in any part of your body while using this medication. If you're taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) for a long period of time, you'll likely need to get blood tests done regularly so your provider can check your kidney function and risk of nerve damage.

                        risk-warning

                        Breakdown of red blood cells (hemolytic anemia)

                        • Risk factors: G6PD deficiency | Black people | People of Mediterranean or Middle Eastern ethnicity

                          Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) can damage your red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia. Your risk is higher if you're lacking a specific protein in your body called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD). Black people and those of Mediterranean or Middle Eastern ethnicity are more likely to have this deficiency. Tell your healthcare provider about the medical conditions you have before starting this antibiotic. Let your provider know if you feel unexplainably weak, dizzy, or tired while taking nitrofurantoin (Macrobid).

                          risk-warning

                          Severe diarrhea

                          • Risk factors: Use of multiple antibiotics | Long-term use of antibiotics | 65 years or older | Recent hospital stay | People with a weakened immune system | Previous infection from or known exposure to Clostridioides difficile

                            Like all antibiotics, nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) can cause diarrhea. This is because nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) can change the amount of "good" bacteria that's normally in your gut, which affects how well they keep dangerous bacteria away. In rare cases, this diarrhea is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria called Clostridioides difficile (commonly called C. diff). C. diff-related diarrhea is very contagious and can lead to life-threatening dehydration. If you experience watery or bloody stools, stomach cramps, or fever, contact your provider right away. If you have C. diff, be sure to wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds often, and try to use a different bathroom from anyone living with you until you're better.

                            dosage

                            Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) dosage forms

                            capsule
                            Capsule
                            DosageAs low as
                            25mg$57.65 for 30 capsules
                            50mg$31.96 for 90 capsules
                            100mg$22.96 for 30 capsules
                            ml of oral suspension
                            Ml of oral suspension
                            DosageAs low as
                            25mg/5ml$357.25 for 230 ml
                            50mg/5ml$2007.70 for 140 ml

                            Typical dosing for Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)

                            Treatment of UTI

                            • Macrobid capsules and its generics: For people over 12 years old, the typical dose is 100 mg by mouth every 12 hours with food for 7 days.

                            • Macrodantin capsules, Furadantin oral suspension, and their generics: For adults, the typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg by mouth four times a day with food. For children ages 1 month and older, the dose will depend on their body weight; it's typically taken as 1.25 mg/kg to 1.75 mg/kg by mouth four times a day with food. This medication is typically taken for 7 days or for at least 3 days after you have a urine test that shows it's free of bacteria.

                            Prevention of UTI

                            • Macrodantin capsules, Furadantin oral suspension, and their generics: For adults, the typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg by mouth once a day at bedtime with food. For children ages 1 month and older, the dose will depend on their body weight; it's typically 1 mg/kg of body weight by mouth per day with food.

                            More on Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) dosage forms

                            interactions

                            Interactions between Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) and other drugs

                            Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                            contraindications-icon

                            Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) contraindications

                            Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) will not be safe for you to take.
                            • History of liver damage or jaundice linked with nitrofurantoin use

                            • Severe kidney problems

                            • Urinating less than usual or not at all

                            • Females at 38 to 42 weeks of a pregnancy and during labor and delivery

                            • Children under 1 month of age

                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)
                            Used for:
                            • Treatment or prevention of urinary tract infections

                            $22.96 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            $28.99 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            latest news

                            What is the latest news about Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)?

                            images

                            Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) images

                            Pink Z Zenith 100 Mg 2131 - Nitrofurantoin (Macrocrystalline) 100mg Capsule
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                            Gray Mylan 1700 Mylan 1700 - Nitrofurantoin (Macrocrystalline) 100mg Capsule
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                            Yellow Macrodantin 100 Mg 52427-288 - Nitrofurantoin (Macrocrystalline) 100mg Capsule
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                            References

                            Best studies we found

                            Alembic Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2023). NITROFURANTOIN capsule. DailyMed. 

                            Almatica Pharma LLC. (2020). MACROBID- nitrofurantoin monohydrate/macrocrystalline capsule. DailyMed. 

                            Casper Pharma LLC. (2021). FURADANTIN- nitrofurantoin suspension. DailyMed.  

                            View All References (11)

                            Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). E. coli (Escherichia coli)

                            Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Hand hygiene in healthcare settings– Healthcare providers.

                            Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Pneumocystis pneumonia.

                            Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2010). Klebsiella.

                            Ehlers, S., et al. (2022). Staphylococcus saprophyticus. StatPearls.  

                            Flores-Mireles, A. L., et al. (2015). Urinary tract infections: Epidemiology, mechanisms of infection and treatment options. Nature Reviews. Microbiology. 

                            Matuszkiewicz-Rowińska, J., et al. (2015). Urinary tract infections in pregnancy: Old and new unresolved diagnostic and therapeutic problems. Archives of Medical Science. 

                            Muller, A. E., et al. (2016). Nitrofurantoin's efficacy and safety as prophylaxis for urinary tract infections: A systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis of controlled trials. Clinical Microbiology and Infection. 

                            National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). Hemolytic anemia.

                            National Organization for Rare Disorders. (2017). Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.  

                            Squadrito, F. J., et al. (2022). Nitrofurantoin. StatPearls.

                            GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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