Common capsules include 50 mg and 100 mg; release type and strength vary by product.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
An antibacterial medicine used mainly for uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (bladder infections) caused by susceptible bacteria. Not suitable for all urinary infections and not effective against viruses.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use if you have a serious nitrofurantoin allergy. Use may not be appropriate with severely reduced kidney function, certain red-cell enzyme deficiencies, or near the end of pregnancy ‚ check current labeling and local guidance.
Important precautions
Your doctor will assess kidney function and the type of infection before prescribing. Report any new breathing symptoms, persistent cough, jaundice, or tingling. Not all formulations behave the same. Use only as prescribed.
Common side effects
Common side effects include nausea, reduced appetite, stomach discomfort, and headache. Urine may turn dark yellow or brown ‚ this is harmless.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, persistent cough, jaundice, severe rash, numbness or tingling, or signs of blood-cell problems.
Important interactions
Antacids containing magnesium trisilicate and medicines that affect kidney excretion (such as probenecid or sulfinpyrazone) may reduce effectiveness. Your pharmacist should review all your medicines.
Allergy considerations
Do not use if you have had a serious reaction to nitrofurantoin before. Note any history of drug-related lung or liver reactions and check product excipients.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Suitability depends on how far along the pregnancy is and local guidance ‚ it is generally avoided near delivery. A doctor should choose the treatment.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Safety during breastfeeding depends on the infant's age and health, including jaundice or G6PD deficiency. Get advice from a clinician or pharmacist before use.
Children and older adults
Use only in age groups approved for the specific product. Liquid formulations for children require professional guidance ‚ check restrictions for infants.
Storage
Keep in the original, tightly closed pack away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Store out of reach of children. Follow any label-specific storage directions.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose when you remember, unless the next dose is almost due. Skip it if needed ‚ never double up. Ask your pharmacist about special dosing schedules.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, call a poison helpline or emergency service right away. Bring the medicine pack so healthcare professionals know what was taken.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Common capsules include 50 mg and 100 mg; release type and strength vary by product.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
An antibacterial medicine used mainly for uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (bladder infections) caused by susceptible bacteria. Not suitable for all urinary infections and not effective against viruses.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use if you have a serious nitrofurantoin allergy. Use may not be appropriate with severely reduced kidney function, certain red-cell enzyme deficiencies, or near the end of pregnancy ‚ check current labeling and local guidance.
Important precautions
Your doctor will assess kidney function and the type of infection before prescribing. Report any new breathing symptoms, persistent cough, jaundice, or tingling. Not all formulations behave the same. Use only as prescribed.
Common side effects
Common side effects include nausea, reduced appetite, stomach discomfort, and headache. Urine may turn dark yellow or brown ‚ this is harmless.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, persistent cough, jaundice, severe rash, numbness or tingling, or signs of blood-cell problems.
Important interactions
Antacids containing magnesium trisilicate and medicines that affect kidney excretion (such as probenecid or sulfinpyrazone) may reduce effectiveness. Your pharmacist should review all your medicines.
Allergy considerations
Do not use if you have had a serious reaction to nitrofurantoin before. Note any history of drug-related lung or liver reactions and check product excipients.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Suitability depends on how far along the pregnancy is and local guidance ‚ it is generally avoided near delivery. A doctor should choose the treatment.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Safety during breastfeeding depends on the infant's age and health, including jaundice or G6PD deficiency. Get advice from a clinician or pharmacist before use.
Children and older adults
Use only in age groups approved for the specific product. Liquid formulations for children require professional guidance ‚ check restrictions for infants.
Storage
Keep in the original, tightly closed pack away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Store out of reach of children. Follow any label-specific storage directions.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose when you remember, unless the next dose is almost due. Skip it if needed ‚ never double up. Ask your pharmacist about special dosing schedules.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, call a poison helpline or emergency service right away. Bring the medicine pack so healthcare professionals know what was taken.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
