Urinary tract infections are fairly common, especially in women. They can be caused by a variety of bacterial strains. To determine which strain is the culprit, a urine test is conducted. Typically Escherichia coli, or E. coli, is the cause, and a course of antibiotics will cure the infection. Treatment may last up to two weeks. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends following doctor's orders regarding treatment: Even if symptoms have subsided, the infection may still be present. For severe infections, patients may need to be hospitalized and given intravenous antibiotics.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a member of the class of antibiotics known as penicillins. The drug is given orally and, according to GlaxoSmithKline, which manufactures the drug, it kills growing bacteria by interfering with their ability to make cell walls, a bacteria's protective outer coat. The antibiotic is effective against the most common bacterial cause of urinary tract infections, E. coli. It is also effective against other types of bacteria that may cause the infection, including Proteus mirabilis and Enterococcus faecalis. Patients who are allergic to penicillins, however, will also be allergic to amoxicillin and will require an alternative antibiotic treatment.
Nitrofurantoin
Nitrofurantoin is an oral antibiotic that kills bacteria by interfering with their metabolism. The drug may also behave in a similar way to penicillin in that it may inhibit bacteria from making cell walls. The Merck Manual notes that the bacteria Proteus mirabilis is resistant to Nitrofurantoin; however, the drug can kill E. coli, Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Enterococcus faecalis. Nitrofurantoin is often prescribed to prevent urinary tract infections in women with recurrent infections.
Trimethoprim and Sulfamethoxazole
Trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole are used in combination to treat urinary tract infections. Trimethoprim kills bacteria by stopping its metabolism. Sulfamethoxazole is a sulfonamide, a class of man-made antibiotics. It works by preventing bacteria from reproducing. Together they have a much greater effect against bacteria. The combination is given orally and works against many strains of bacteria, including E. coli.
Ciprofloxacin and Levofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin are part of the newest class of antibiotics, fluoroquinolones. Ciprofloxacin is slightly older but both kill bacteria by preventing them from reproducing. The Merck Manual states that either can be given when E. coli becomes resistant to other antibiotics, including the combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. Both can be given orally.
