Furadantin
Formulated to treat urinary tract infections to mitigate bacterial colonization in the bladder.
- Category
- Antibiotics
- Active ingredient
- Nitrofurantoin
- Supply
- Pharmacy
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Tablet
- Strengths
- 50 · 100mg
Furadantin details
- Conditions
- Cystitis · Urinary Tract Infection
- Alternative names
- Macrobid; Macrodantin
- Therapeutic class
- Antibacterial; Nitrofuran
- Pharmacological class
- Nitrofuran Antibiotic
- Known off-label uses
- urinary tract infection prophylaxis
- Minor side effects
- nausea; headache; flatulence
- Moderate side effects
- diarrhoea; abdominal pain
- Dosage forms
- Tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
- Manufacturer
- Alvogen
- Onset Time
- 1–2 hours
- Duration
- 3–7 days
- Storage instructions
- Store in its original packaging at room temperature away from moisture.
- Drug interactions
- antacids containing magnesium trisilicate; probenecid
- Age restrictions
- Suitable for children and adults; dosage adjusted for body weight.
Contraindications
hypersensitivity to nitrofurantoin; anuria; oliguria; renal impairment; g6pd deficiency
Precautions and warnings
may discolour urine; monitor for pulmonary respiratory symptoms; use with caution in elderly patients
Serious side effects
peripheral neuropathy, requires immediate medical attention; pulmonary fibrosis, requires immediate medical attention; hepatitis, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
formulated to treat urinary tract infections to mitigate bacterial colonization in the bladder.
Mechanism of action
Nitrofurantoin is reduced by bacterial flavoproteins to reactive intermediates that inactivate or alter bacterial ribosomal proteins and other macromolecules. This action inhibits aerobic energy metabolism and protein synthesis, resulting in bactericidal activity specifically within the urinary tract.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Can be used if benefits outweigh risks, but avoid at term due to risk of neonatal haemolytic anaemia. Breastfeeding: Can be used with caution during breastfeeding.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Furadantin
Furadantin is a brand of nitrofurantoin, an antibiotic used to treat cystitis and urinary tract infection. The same active ingredient is also sold as Macrobid and Macrodantin, supplied as a tablet in 50mg and 100mg strengths.
Furadantin availability in Asia
Furadantin is registered across 14 markets including Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, with availability also in Indonesia, Taiwan and South Korea. Generic nitrofurantoin is often far more affordable than the original brand, providing a practical solution for expats and those living at a distance from a well stocked pharmacy. As with all antibiotic therapy, this medication is best used under the guidance of a doctor.