Furadonin (Macrobid)

Macrobid Macrocrystalline Capsules is a urinary tract antibiotic. It works by interfering with various chemical processes in the bacteria, which results in the death of the bacteria.

Therapeutic actions:
At the concentrations achieved in urine, nitrofurantoin is bactericidal. The mechanism of action of nitrofurantoin is unique and complex. The drug works by damaging bacterial DNA, since its reduced form is highly reactive. This is made possible by the rapid reduction of nitrofurantoin inside the bacterial cell by flavoproteins (nitrofuran reductase) to multiple reactive intermediates that attack ribosomal proteins, DNA, respiration, pyruvate metabolism and other macromolecules within the cell. It is not known which of the actions of nitrofurantoin is primarily responsible for its bacteriocidal acitivity.

What is it used for?:
Macrobid is indicated only for the treatment of acute uncomplicated urinary tract infections (acute cystitis) caused by susceptible strains of Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus saprophyticus.

Contraindications and cautions:
• allerg to any ingredient in Macrobid;
• little or no urine formation or kidney problems;
• pregnancy and at term (38 to 42 weeks pregnancy), the onset of labor is about to occur, or during labor and delivery;
• the patient is younger than 1 month old

Side effects:
Less serious side effects: fever; chills; cough drowsiness; headache; loss of appetite; nausea; rash; ; dizziness; tingling or numbness in fingers or toes; upset stomach; vomiting.

Interactions:
• Macrobid’s effectiveness may be decreased by probenecid or sulfinpyrazone;
• Macrobid may decrease effectiveness of Hydantoins (eg, phenytoin).