The antibiotics commonly used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) include:
- Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin)
- Fosfomycin (Monurol)
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)
- Cephalexin and other cephalosporins
- Occasionally, fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) for complicated infections
For uncomplicated UTIs, first-line antibiotics usually selected are nitrofurantoin, fosfomycin, or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. If one of these has been used recently, a different antibiotic may be chosen. Cephalosporins may be used if first-line options cannot be used. Fluoroquinolones are generally avoided for simple UTIs due to side effects and resistance concerns but may be used in complicated cases. Treatment duration typically ranges from a single dose to 5-7 days for simple UTIs. Kidney infections or severe cases may require intravenous antibiotics and longer treatment. Nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole are among the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for UTIs in women, with fosfomycin also used as a single-dose treatment option. Always consult a healthcare provider for appropriate diagnosis and prescription, as antibiotic choice depends on the type of infection, patient history, and local resistance patterns. This summary is based on current commonly prescribed antibiotics and treatment approaches for UTIs.
