A urinary tract infection refers to a condition in which bacteria infiltrate the kidneys, ureters or urethra and lead to such symptoms as painful urination, bloody urine and the sudden urge to urinate. Some risk factors for developing a UTI include being female, being sexually active and suffering from diabetes or chronic illnesses, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fortunately, medications for urinary infections exist.
Nitrofurantoin
Nitrofurantoin, commonly sold as Furadantin, Macrobid or Nitro Macro, is an antibiotic medication that specifically treats UTIs. Specifically, it eliminates bacteria within the body. Some of nitrofurantoin's less serious side effects include blurry vision, vomiting, stomach problems, a headache, dizziness or drowsiness, according to Drugs.com. Some of its serious side effects include shortness of breath, yellowing of the skin or eyes, stomach pain and confusion. Phone a doctor when nitrofurantoin leads to any of these effects. An alteration in nitrofurantoin's dose may be required when suffering from anemia, kidney disease, vitamin B deficiency or diabetes. Nitrofurantoin is a tablet taken daily or as indicated.
Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin, commonly sold as Cipro or Proquin, is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that kills bacterial infections. This medication treats UTIs as well as anthrax. MedlinePlus indicates that ciprofloxacin's less concerning side effects include heartburn, diarrhea, stomach pain and vaginal itching or discharge. Ciprofloxacin's serious side effects include trouble breathing or swallowing, muscle or joint pain, itching and severe diarrhea. Notify a doctor when ciprofloxacin leads to these effects. Taking such medications as amiodarone, ibuprofen, procainamide and naproxen may require a decrease in ciprofloxacin's dose. This medication is a tablet or liquid taken once or twice a day.
Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim
Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, commonly sold as Bactrim or Septra DS, is another antibiotic medication that treats UTIs, bronchitis, traveler's diarrhea and pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim's less concerning side effects include ringing in the ears, trouble sleeping, joint pain and a swollen tongue, according to Drugs.com. Some of its serious side effects include a slow heart rate or pulse, a fever, chills, hallucinations and restlessness. Suffering from AIDS, kidney or liver disease, allergies or asthma requires a change in sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim's dose. This drug is a tablet or injection given every 12 hours for seven to 14 days or as prescribed.
