What is the dosage and how should it be used?
Nitrofurantoin comes in a capsule and liquid form to be taken orally, and is usually taken two or four times a day for at least 7 days.
Take nitrofurantoin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water, milk or with food to decrease stomach upset and to increase the absorption of the drug into the body.
Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get the correct dose, measure the suspension with a dose-measuring spoon or dropper, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. The suspension can be mixed with water, milk, fruit juice, or infant formula to ease administration. Ensure that the whole mixture is consumed immediately after mixing.
Do not crush, chew, or break the sustained release forms of nitrofurantoin. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to slowly release the medication into the body.
Take all of the nitrofurantoin that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Why is this medication prescribed?
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?