A urinary tract infection refers to an infection that affects the kidneys, bladder, ureters or urethra. MedlinePlus says that some symptoms of a urinary tract infection include a low fever, bloody or cloudy urine, pressure or cramping of the lower stomach, flank pain and chills. Fortunately, common drugs for urinary tract infections exist to decrease these symptoms.
Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim
Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, typically sold as Bactrim or Septra, refers to a combination antibiotic medication that eliminates a variety of bacteria. Specifically, Drugs.com says that the sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim combination treats urinary tract infections, ear infections, bronchitis and traveler's diarrhea. Its less serious side effects include dizziness, ringing in the ears, trouble sleeping, joint pain and a swollen or painful tongue. Some of this drug's serious side effects include a cough, shortness of breath, confusion, a slow heart rate, bloody or watery diarrhea and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Suffering from folic acid deficiency, AIDS, asthma or liver or kidney disease may require a decrease in sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim's dose. This medication is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Cefazolin
Cefazolin, typically sold as Ancef, is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as cephalosporin antibiotics. This medication eliminates bacteria from the body. Drugs.com says that cefazolin's less serious side effects include stomach pain, vomiting, a skin rash, vaginal itching or discharge and a skin rash, pain or swelling at the injection site. Some of cefazolin's serious side effects include seizures, bloody or watery diarrhea, easy bleeding or bruising, a sore throat and a headache. People with certain intestinal or stomach disorders and liver or kidney disease may require a decrease in cefazolin's dose. Cefazolin is given as an injection daily or as prescribed.
Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin, typically sold as Cipro or Proquin, is another medication used to destroy bacteria. Specifically, it belongs to a group of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones. MedlinePlus indicates that some of ciprofloxacin's less serious side effects include diarrhea, heartburn, stomach pain, nausea and vaginal discharge or vaginal itching. Some of ciprofloxacin's serious side effects include seizures, dizziness, hoarseness, fainting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, depression and suicidal thoughts. Ciprofloxacin is a tablet or liquid taken one or two times daily.
