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Macrobid for a Sinus Infection

A sinus infection is a common medical condition in which the sinus cavities become inflamed. This causes congestion from mucous buildup. In most cases, a sinus infection develops as the result of a cold; other causes include allergies, bacterial infections and fungal infection. In most cases, a sinus infection will clear on its own without treatment. However, in cases where the cause is a bacterial infection antibiotics such as Macrobid may be prescribed.

  1. How It Works

    • Macrobid is a nitrofurantoin antibiotic that works by killing the bacteria that cause an infection. It is most often used to treat urinary tract infections, but it is also effective in treating severe sinus infections and other bacterial infections.

    How to Take It

    • Available in several forms, Macrobid is typically prescribed as pills.They should always be taken with food. As with all antibiotics, use up all the prescribed medication, even if you are feeling better. If you don't take the complete course, the infection could return, possibly in a form more resistant to antibiotics.

    Non-Serious Side Effects

    • Some people taking Macrobid may experience mild side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, gas, loss of appetite and headaches. None of these side effects is cause for concern, but contact your doctor if they become bothersome.

    Serious Side Effects

    • In rare cases, people taking Macrobid may develop severe side effects that require medical attention. If you experience any of the following, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately: severe stomach pain or cramps; red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin; severe or persistent diarrhea; watery or bloody stools; a butterfly-shaped rash on the nose and cheeks; joint or muscle pain; persistent headaches; jaundice; pale stools; persistent loss of appetite; symptoms of lung problems such as shortness of breath, fever or chills, chest pain and a persistent or unusual cough; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual fatigue; bluish skin or nails; tingling; numbness; persistent malaise; blurred vision or other unusual vision changes; confusion; and mental or mood changes such as depression.

    Warnings

    • Although Macrobid can safely be taken by most people, some should not take it, including those with lung problems such as pulmonary fibrosis; anemia; diabetes; kidney, liver or nerve problems; glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency; porphyria; or low levels of vitamin B. It is also not safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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