What Medication Is Used to Treat UTI?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are painful and possibly dangerous infections. Occurring when bacteria multiplies and irritates the urinary tract, UTIs can worsen and cause kidney infection, which typically requires strong antibacterial medicines and hospitalization. Fortunately, with modern medical technology, there are a number of treatments for UTIs.

Trimethroprim

• Trimethroprim is an antibiotic that directly interferes with the production of a chemical needed for bacterial cells to make protein. Without the production of protein, the bacterial cells die. Its most common side effects include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash and itching. All patients do not report these side effects; however, if any side effects occur, these will most likely be the ones experienced. In rare cases, trimethroprim can cause anemia. Those most likely to experience anemia are people suffering malnourishment or alcoholic abuse; geriatric and pregnant patients are also at risk of developing anemia. Anemia clears up after trimethroprim treatment ceases.

Amoxicillin

• Amoxicillin is a member of the penicillin family of antibiotics. Penicillin was the first-discovered antibiotic, and has many derivatives. Amoxicillin does not kill the bacteria directly. It prevents bacterial growth by stopping cellular production of protective cell walls. Without the cell wall, bacteria cannot survive, and the body clears the remaining bacterial remnants. Side effects are occasionally reported. They include heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and allergic reactions.

Ampicillin

• Ampicillin, in the same family as amoxicillin, works the same way and is used as a replacement for amoxicillin if a patient shows signs of an allergic reaction when using the latter. Ampicillin is usually used to treat ear infections, strep throat and some staph infections. Side affects are the same as those with amoxicillin. Because of allergies, some people can only tolerate penicillin-based antibiotics; however, negative reactions to amoxicillin might lead a doctor to use ampicillin.

Nitrofurantoin

• Nitrofurantoin is a synthetic antibiotic used specifically for UTIs. It interferes with a cell's production of proteins. Without the proteins, a cell cannot survive. Side effects, though rare, include rash, headache, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, diarrhea and itching.

Additional Information

• The right antibiotic to treat your UTI depends on you and your doctor. What might work best for one might be ineffective for another person. Also, different bacteria can cause UTIs, and one antibiotic may be more effective on certain bacteria then others. Your doctor will prescribe the correct antibiotic for your particular infection. Fortunately, there are multiple treatments for this painful and potentially dangerous infection.