What is Macrobid Macrocrystal (Nitrofurantoin) prescribed for?

Bladder infections have a way of gaining your utmost attention, by making you journey to the washroom countless times, and it is the most common type of urinary tract infection.  When you get a bladder infection it leads to cystitis, which is when your bladder swells and becomes irritated. In turn this is what causes the symptoms.

This medication is an antibiotic, and it works by stopping the growth of the bacteria in the body that creates these symptoms.

Remember that this medication only treats bacterial infections; it will not work for any viral infections, such as the common cold and the flu.

This medication is to be taken by mouth. Usually twice a day, every 12 hours. Swallow the medication whole.

Do not take magnesium trisilicate-containing antacids while taking this medication.  These antacids can bind with Nitrofurantoin, which prevents its full absorption into your system. Be sure to take this medication at evenly spaced times, and remember that the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment.

Continue to take this medication until full prescribed amount is complete, even if your symptoms disappear after a few days. Discontinuing in taking the medication too early may allow the bacteria to continue to grow and result in a return of the infection.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Nitrofurantoin; or to any other medications or allergies in general.

If you have ever had any of these medical conditions, it is best to let your doctor know before taking this medication. They are as follows; kidney disease (e.g., little or no urine output), a certain genetic condition (G-6-PD deficiency), a history of liver problems due to nitrofurantoin use in the past.

Also it is best to notify your doctor of your medical history. Inform you doctor if you have had any serious health issues in the past, such as; liver disease, lung disease, numbness/tingling of the arms/legs, vitamin B deficiency, mineral imbalance, blood disorders (e.g., anemia), diabetes, persistent weakness due to long-term disease, certain eye disorders (e.g., optic neuritis).

This medication may cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work as well. Do not have any immunizations/vaccinations while using this medication unless your doctor tells you to.

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Nausea, headache may occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

This medication may cause your urine to turn dark yellow or brown in color. This is usually a harmless, temporary effect and will disappear when the medication is stopped. However, dark brown urine can also be a sign of rare side effects (liver problems or anemia). Therefore, seek immediate medical attention if you notice dark urine along with any of the following symptoms: persistent nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: eye pain, vision changes, mental/mood changes, persistent/severe headaches, new signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: eye pain, vision changes, mental/mood changes, persistent/severe headaches, new signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding.

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop the following rare but very serious side effects: numbness/tingling of the hands/feet, unusual muscle weakness.

This medication may rarely cause very serious (possibly fatal) lung problems. Lung problems may occur within the first month of treatment or after long-term use of nitrofurantoin (generally for 6 months or longer). Get medical help right away if you develop symptoms of lung problems, including: persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath/trouble breathing, joint/muscle pain, bluish/purplish skin.

This medication may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea) due to resistant bacteria. This condition may occur during treatment or even weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid medications if you have the following symptoms because these products may make them worse. Tell your doctor right away if you develop: persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, blood/mucus in your stool.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.