NIFURAN

This medicine contains the active ingredient nitrofurantoin which belongs to a group of medicines called antibiotics. Antibiotics are widely used for the treatment of bacterial infections by killing bacteria and preventing their growth. This medicine is prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections of the urinary tract, especially bladder and kidneys.

Is Nitrofurantoin suitable for me?

Nitrofurantoin is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to nitrofurantoin  or to other ingredients of this medicine
• if you have kidney problems
• if you have a blood disorder called porphyria
• if you have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase insufficiency
• if you are in the final stages of pregnancy
• if you are breastfeeding

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding 
• have diabetes
• have anemia
• have lack of vitamin B or abnormal levels of salts in your blood
• have any disease of the lungs, liver or nervous system
• have kidney problems

Nitrofurantoin interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Nitrofurantoin?

This medicine is available in form of a capsule.

You should take nitrofurantoin exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose will be prescribed according to your needs and condition.

• The usual dose for adults is 50 to 100 mg 4 times a day.
• The usual dose for the prevention of infection is 50 or 100 mg once a day (at bedtime).

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Nitrofurantoin side effects?

Like all medicines nitrofurantoin can cause side effects, including:

• nausea, vomiting
• headache
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite, stomach ache
• dizziness, drowsiness
• bruising, delayed clotting of the blood
• sore throat
• fever
• anemia
• skin rashes
• flaking skin, a red rash or fever
• inflammation of salivary glands
• inflammation of the pancreas
• joint pains
• short-term hair loss
• urinary infection by germs

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.