Antibiotics are the main treatment for urinary tract infections, although the choice will vary depending upon different factors. Criteria includes the age of the patient, if the infection is a primary or recurrent illness, if the patient is in the hospital or has an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, and the type of bacteria present. Whether the bacterial count is high or low doesn’t dictate the type of antibiotics or if medication will be used. When symptoms are present most physicians will consider antibiotic treatment.
Quinolones
This is a classification of antibiotic approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treatment of urinary tract infections, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Medications in this classification include ofloxacin, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin and trovafloxin. The first of this classification was approved for use in the mid-1980’s. They are antimicrobial and effected for the treatment of community acquired infections. They are usually given by mouth, but some can be given via an intravenous line.
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole
This common antibiotic is listed as one treatment of choice by the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. It is a synthetic combination available in both pill and liquid form and effective against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Proteus, and Morganella species of bacteria. Allergic reactions to the medication have been reported and include the development of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, anaphylaxis, drug fever, serum sickness-like syndrome, photosensitivity and itchy rash.
Nitrofurantoin
According to Mayo Clinic physicians, nitrofurantoin works by killing the bacteria or preventing them from growing and multiplying. It is available as a tablet, capsule or in liquid suspension. Individuals who are diabetic may find that this medication can cause a false test results with urine sugar tests. Before changing their diets or dose of insulin, patients should consult with their physicians. This antibiotic can also cause diarrhea that can be made worse with diarrhea medications. Sometimes the urine will turn rust-yellow or brown in color, which does not require medical attention.
Penicillins
According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, penicillin derivatives are used to treat urinary tract infections. However, although they are very effective and relatively safe in patients who are not allergic, there are side effects of these antibiotics that must be addressed. Penicillin-based antibiotics deplete probiotics, and vitamins B2, B9, B12, H and K, and each of these vitamins plays a vital role in the prevention of disease and illness.
