Skip to main content

Macrodantin

Generic name: nitrofurantoinNYE-troe-fue-RAN-toin ]
Brand names: Macrobid, Macrodantin
Drug class: Urinary anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 14, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Macrodantin?

Macrodantin is an antibiotic that is used to treat urinary tract infections caused by bacteria.

Macrodantin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Macrodantin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).

Macrodantin may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Side effects may be more likely in older adults.

Common side effects of Macrodantin may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

You should not take Macrodantin if you have severe kidney disease, urination problems, or a history of jaundice or liver problems caused by this medicine.

Do not take Macrodantin during late pregnancy (from 38 weeks through delivery).

Before taking this medicine

You should not take Macrodantin if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

Do not take Macrodantin during late pregnancy (from 38 weeks through delivery).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

You should not breastfeed a baby younger than 1 month old while you are taking Macrodantin.

Macrodantin should not be given to a child younger than 1 month old.

How should I take Macrodantin?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Take Macrodantin with food, even if you take it at bedtime.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

You may need to keep taking Macrodantin for up to 7 days after lab tests show that the infection has cleared. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Use Macrodantin for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Macrodantin will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.

This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Macrodantin.

If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze the liquid medicine, and keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Throw away any Macrodantin liquid that has not been used within 30 days.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose can cause vomiting.

What should I avoid while taking Macrodantin?

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, call your doctor before using anti-diarrhea medicine.

Avoid taking an antacid that contains magnesium trisilicate, which could make it harder for your body to absorb Macrodantin.

What other drugs will affect Macrodantin?

Other drugs may affect Macrodantin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.