Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are mostly found in women in their reproductive years who are sexually active. It is thought to be caused by movement of bacteria from around the genitals up the urethra and into the bladder, causing symptoms such as painful or burning urination, urinary frequency, back pain and the feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder. Antibiotics are the mainstay treatment.
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a first-line antibiotic for treatment of UTIs that are not thought to involve the kidneys. It is a drug used twice a day, usually for a course of three days. It does contain sulfonamides; therefore you should not take this drug if you have a history of sulfa allergy. Finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you feel better after one day of treatment. Common side effects include stomach upset and rash, neither of which is life-threatening.
Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin is also used first-line as an oral or intravenous drug for UTIs. Depending on the formulation, Cipro can either be taken once or twice a day. Take the medication as it is prescribed to you and be sure to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you feel better after one day of treatment. Common side effects include stomach upset. Ciprofloxacin is not typically used in children under the age of 17 because of the small risk of tendon disruption.
Nitrofurantoin
Nitrofurantoin is an oral antibiotic typically used to treat UTIs in children and pregnant women. It is a medication that needs to be taken four times a day for three to five days. Finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you feel better after one day of treatment. The most common side effect is stomach upset.
References
- CURRENT Diagnosis & Treatment: Emergency Medicine; "Acute Lower Urinary Tract Infection (Uncomplicated Cystitis)"; Jon Jaffe MD, et al.; February 2007
- Clinician's Pocket Reference; "Commonly Used Medications"; Leonard Gomella et al.; 2007
