Nitrofurantoin: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Nitrofurantoin is a urinary antibiotic. It is a prescription medicine used for uncomplicated urinary tract infections and prevention of recurrent urinary infections. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 3 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Nitrofurantoin works
Nitrofurantoin is filtered by the kidneys into the urine, where bacteria convert it into reactive substances that damage their DNA, proteins and other vital parts. Attacking several targets at once makes it hard for bacteria to become resistant. Little of the drug stays in the bloodstream.
What is Nitrofurantoin used for?
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections and prevention of recurrent urinary infections
Nitrofurantoin is used to treat uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections such as cystitis, which cause burning, urgency and frequent passing of urine. It is also prescribed long term at a low strength to prevent repeated bladder infections in some people. Because it concentrates in the urine rather than the blood, it is not suitable for kidney infections or infections elsewhere in the body.
Side effects of Nitrofurantoin
Most people manage Nitrofurantoin well, especially when it is taken with food. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Dark yellow or brown urine (harmless)
- Diarrhoea
- Dizziness
Stop taking it and contact a doctor straight away if you develop a cough, chest pain or breathlessness, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, yellow skin or eyes, or a severe rash.
Precautions and warnings
- Take Nitrofurantoin with food or milk to reduce stomach upset and help absorption.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, as it works poorly and is more likely to cause side effects when kidney function is reduced.
- Let your doctor know about nerve problems, lung or liver disease, G6PD deficiency, diabetes or vitamin B deficiency. Long-term use needs monitoring for lung and liver side effects.
- Finish the course prescribed, even if you feel better sooner.
- It is avoided near the end of pregnancy because of a risk to the newborn's red blood cells, so tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about Nitrofurantoin
What is the price of Nitrofurantoin in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Nitrofurantoin products currently in stock range from Rs 78 to Rs 10,400 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Nitrofurantoin 100 mg Tablets at Rs 78. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Nitrofurantoin are available in Pakistan?
Nitrofurantoin is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Nitrofurantoin (Glitz Pharma), Furantin (Geofman) and Nitrofurantion (Glitz Pharma).Do I need a prescription for Nitrofurantoin?
Yes. Nitrofurantoin is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Can Nitrofurantoin be used during pregnancy?
It is avoided near the end of pregnancy because of a risk to the newborn's red blood cells, so tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Are all Nitrofurantoin brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Nitrofurantoin in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Nitrofurantoin brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 5 products containing Nitrofurantoin from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
