Urinary tract infections involve bacteria entering the kidneys or the bladder. Symptoms of a bladder infection include a burning sensation during urination, a frequent urge to urinate and cloudy urine. A physician diagnoses a bladder infection by collecting a urine sample from the affected individual and performing a urinalysis to look for bacteria, white blood cells and other materials in the urine. A bladder infection requires antibiotics to treat the condition. A urine culture will help determine the best antibiotic for the specific bacteria causing the infection, which is especially helpful for difficult-to-treat bladder infections.
Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole
A trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole combination oral medication helps treat a urinary tract infection. The prescription medication treats common bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Enterobacter and Klebsiella pneumoniae, according to RxList.com. The medication may cause common side effects such as nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Some individuals may experience a rash.
Gatifloxacin
Gatifloxacin is an antibiotic medication available in tablet or injectable forms. Tablets are available in two strengths to treat simple urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli or Klebsiella pneumoniae. Physicians prescribe gatifloxacin once a day for three days for simple infections and for seven to 10 days for complicated infections, according to RxList.com. Side effects associated with gatifloxacin include nausea, vaginal infections, diarrhea and headaches.
Amoxicillin and Clavulanate
A combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate will treat a bladder infection. This oral medication is available as a tablet, a chewable tablet and an extended release tablet and in liquid form. These medications fight a wide range of common bacteria found in the body and the urinary tract. A physician typically prescribes amoxicillin and clavulanate for 10 days to treat an infection. Common side effects of this medication include gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, diarrhea and stomach pain, according to Drugs.com.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that slows the growth of bacteria in the body, including in the urinary tract. Pregnant women need to avoid doxycycline because the medication can cause a discoloration of teeth in the unborn baby. Individuals need to take doxycycline tablets with a full glass of water and avoid dairy products when taking the medicine. Side effects that may occur with taking doxycycline include headache, nausea, vomiting and a loss of appetite, according to Drugs.com.
