The antibiotics commonly used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) are:
- Nitrofurantoin (e.g., Macrobid, Macrodantin) — often the preferred initial treatment for uncomplicated UTIs.
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) — a common combination antibiotic for UTIs.
- Fosfomycin (Monurol) — sometimes prescribed, with the convenience of a single-dose treatment.
- Cephalexin — a cephalosporin antibiotic used for UTIs.
- Amoxicillin or amoxicillin-clavulanate — penicillin-type antibiotics, sometimes used depending on allergy status.
- Doxycycline — used primarily for more complicated cases.
- Quinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) — generally reserved for complicated or resistant infections due to side effects and resistance concerns.
Treatment choice depends on the infection's complexity, the patient's medical history, pregnancy status, and local antibiotic resistance patterns. Nitrofurantoin is commonly preferred for simple UTIs in healthy non-pregnant women. The prescribed antibiotic course typically lasts between 3 to 7 days, and it’s important to complete the full course as directed by a healthcare provider. For uncomplicated UTIs, nitrofurantoin or trimethoprim- sulfamethoxazole are generally first-line treatments. Fosfomycin is an option for single-dose therapy. Fluoroquinolones are typically a last resort due to possible serious side effects and antibiotic resistance. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the best antibiotic for your specific case and to confirm a UTI diagnosis, as some infections require different treatments or longer courses of antibiotics. There are no over-the-counter antibiotics for UTIs; a prescription is required. Pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen may be recommended to relieve symptoms during treatment.
