Urinary Tract Infection (Uti)
A urinary tract infection can affect the bladder, the urethra or the kidneys. The usual signs are felt when passing urine, such as burning or discomfort. Some people have only mild symptoms, while others develop pain that interferes with sleep.
Medicines used to treat Urinary Tract Infection (Uti)
Nitrofurantoin
50 · 100mg
Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic for cystitis and urinary tract infection. Tablets come in several strengths and pack sizes. Each option lists its price per tablet.
Key points
- Antibiotics are not needed for every urinary tract infection; some cases are managed without them.
- Most infections start when gut bacteria move into the urethra or bladder, and women have them more frequently than men or children.
- Fever together with shaking chills, or back pain below the ribs at either side, needs same-day medical review because the kidneys may be involved.
What causes it
Most cases begin when bacteria that normally live in the bowel enter the urethra or bladder. Women are more likely to be affected than men or children. Hot weather and not drinking enough can raise the risk.
Symptoms
Pain or a burning feeling when passing urine is common. Some people need to go more often, and the urine may smell stronger than usual. Blood in the urine can occur. Lower abdominal discomfort may also be present.
How it is treated
Many uncomplicated infections improve with a short antibiotic course. Nitrofurantoin 50 mg and 100 mg tablets are used for bladder infections and act within the urinary tract; see nitrofurantoin. Cipro 250 mg to 1000 mg tablets contain ciprofloxacin, a broad-spectrum choice when nitrofurantoin does not suit. Taking in plenty of water while on treatment helps the bladder clear bacteria. Orders are sent to Malaysia by pharmacy partners in India, in discreet packaging.
When to see a doctor
Arrange same-day medical advice for fever, shaking chills, or pain below the ribs at the back or side. These can be signs of a kidney infection, which needs a longer course and often a different antibiotic. Seek medical review rather than self-treatment for blood in the urine, during pregnancy, or for a UTI in a young child or an older man.
Reducing the chance of another infection
Drinking enough fluid is the most useful habit. Empty the bladder soon after sex, clean from front to back, go when the urge arises rather than delaying, and choose underwear that allows air flow. If infections return repeatedly, a doctor can look for a structural or hormonal cause.
What the sources say
- Urine that looks cloudy is one recognised sign (NHS).
- A sudden or stronger need to pass urine can occur (NHS).
- Waking at night more often than usual to pass urine is called nocturia (NHS).
Further reading
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