Nitrofurantoin — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database · 247CanITakeWith Editorial Team
- Nitrofurantoin is a Nitrofuran antibiotic used for UTIs (lower only).
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol with nitrofurantoin — it worsens common side effects and impairs your recovery from a UTI.
- Pregnancy: Nitrofurantoin is the usual UTI antibiotic through most of pregnancy — but it's avoided from around 36 weeks because of a newborn anaemia risk.
About Nitrofurantoin
Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic specifically for lower UTIs. It concentrates in the urinary tract and is not effective for kidney infections (pyelonephritis). Should be avoided in late pregnancy (after 36 weeks) due to risk of neonatal haemolysis.
Also sold as: Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin
Nitrofurantoin at a glance
Nitrofurantoin is classed as nitrofuran antibiotic and is used for utis (lower only), uti prophylaxis. It is a prescription medicine, so doses and combinations should always be agreed with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Typical adult dosing guidance: 50mg four times daily (standard release) or 100mg twice daily (modified release). Your own label or prescription always takes priority over general figures.
Interactions most often flagged
- Alcohol
- Antacids (reduce absorption)
- Pregnancy (late)
Before you combine Nitrofurantoin with anything new
- Read the patient information leaflet for both products.
- Keep one up-to-date list of every medicine and supplement you take.
- Ask a pharmacist — it is free and takes a couple of minutes.
- Seek urgent medical help if you feel seriously unwell after combining medicines.
Nitrofurantoin and Alcohol
Avoid alcohol with nitrofurantoin — it worsens common side effects and impairs your recovery from a UTI.
Full guide →Nitrofurantoin in Pregnancy
Nitrofurantoin is the usual UTI antibiotic through most of pregnancy — but it's avoided from around 36 weeks because of a newborn anaemia risk.
Full guide →More in this category: antibiotics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nitrofurantoin used for?
Nitrofurantoin is a Nitrofuran antibiotic used for UTIs (lower only), UTI prophylaxis.
What is the maximum adult dose of Nitrofurantoin?
The maximum adult dose is 50mg four times daily (standard release) or 100mg twice daily (modified release). This is general guidance — always follow the dose on your prescription or product label, and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Nitrofurantoin?
Avoid alcohol with nitrofurantoin — it worsens common side effects and impairs your recovery from a UTI.
Is Nitrofurantoin safe to take during pregnancy?
Nitrofurantoin is the usual UTI antibiotic through most of pregnancy — but it's avoided from around 36 weeks because of a newborn anaemia risk.
Is Nitrofurantoin available over the counter in the UK?
Nitrofurantoin is prescription-only in the UK.
What should I check before taking Nitrofurantoin with other medicines?
The interactions most often flagged for Nitrofurantoin are: alcohol, antacids (reduce absorption), pregnancy (late). Tell your pharmacist or prescriber about everything you take, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, before combining it with anything new.
What are the brand names for Nitrofurantoin?
Nitrofurantoin is sold under brand names including Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin. The active ingredient is the same, so check labels carefully to avoid doubling up on it.
Do I need a prescription for Nitrofurantoin?
Nitrofurantoin is a prescription medicine, so take it exactly as your prescriber directed and ask them before changing the dose.
Not sure if Nitrofurantoin is safe with your other medications?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.