Nitrofurantoin: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Nitrofurantoin is a first-choice antibiotic for uncomplicated urinary infections. It belongs to the Antibiotic (other) group. These antibiotics from various families treat specific bacterial infections; they do not work against viruses.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Antibiotic (other)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Uncomplicated bladder infections (cystitis)
Preventing repeated urinary infections in some people
Urinary infections in pregnancy (in selected stages, as advised)

Common brand names

India: Niftran, Nitrofit, Martifur
Worldwide: Macrobid, Macrodantin

Common side effects

Nausea or loss of appetite
Headache
Harmless dark yellow or brown urine
Rash

Before taking it — precautions

Not suitable if your kidneys are significantly weak — tell your doctor
Tell your doctor if you are near the end of pregnancy
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset

When to see a doctor urgently

New cough, chest pain or breathlessness (urgent)
Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
Yellow eyes/skin or severe allergy (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of nitrofurantoin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Does nitrofurantoin work for kidney infections?

No — it concentrates in the bladder, not the kidneys or blood, so it is used for bladder infections only.

Why has my urine turned brown?

This colour change is a known and harmless effect of nitrofurantoin. It goes away after stopping.

Can I take it long-term?

Some people take it long-term to prevent repeat infections, but this needs a doctor's monitoring because of rare lung and liver effects.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.