Nitrofurantoin is a medicinal drug used as the active ingredient in medication used to treat urinary tract infections. It works by inhibiting the bacterial DNA, RNA, and cell wall protein synthesis. This medication gets activates by bacterial flavoproteins that inactivate bacterial ribosomal proteins. This active component is a urinary anti-infective agent against most gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. It is an antibiotic used either short term to treat acute urinary tract infections or long term as chronic prophylaxis against recurrent infections. It can be used to treat acute or chronic hepatitis-like syndrome that can be severe and lead to liver failure or cirrhosis.

Class of Drugs – Antibiotic

Molecular Formula – C₈H₆N₄O₅

Molecular Weight – 238.16 g/mol

Working: This active component Nitrofurantoin helps to kill the bacteria that are responsible to cause urinary tract infections. It only works against certain types of bacteria. It should not be used in viral infections.

Uses: Given an antibiotic is approved for the treatment or prevention of certain urinary tract infections. It works by restricting the growth of bacteria. It will not work for viral infections like a common cold, flu. Unnecessary use or overuse of Nitrofurantoin antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness It should not be used in children younger than one month of age due to the risk of a certain blood problem.

Popular Brands and Dosages: This mentioned active component is used in a popular brand medicine as given below:

• Furadantin: 50 mg and 100 mg

Do not use magnesium trisilicate-containing antacids while consuming this medication. Magnesium trisilicate-containing antacids bind with nitrofurantoin, preventing its full absorption.