Apo-Nitrofurantoin

Apo-Nitrofurantoin: use, side effects and contraindications

Apo-Nitrofurantoin is a nitrofuran derivative, an antimicrobial agent that is used to treat urinary tract infections. This drug is manufactured by Apotex Inc. in Canada and is available in 50mg and 100mg tablets.

Indications for use

Apo-Nitrofurantoin is used to treat various urinary tract infections such as pyelitis, pyelonephritis, cystitis and urethritis. It can also be used to prevent infections during urological operations, cystoscopy and catheterization.

Contraindications

Apo-Nitrofurantoin is contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity to nitrofurantoin, impaired renal and hepatic function, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, acute porphyria, pregnancy, early infancy (up to 1 month) and breastfeeding.

Side effects

Apo-Nitrofurantoin may cause some side effects, including interstitial changes in the lungs, broncho-obstructive syndrome, fever, cough, chest pain, hepatitis, cholestatic syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, asthenia, dizziness, nystagmus, headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, pancreatitis, pseudomembranous colitis, allergic reactions (lupus-like syndrome, arthralgia, myalgia, anaphylaxis, chills, eosinophilia, rash).

Interaction with other drugs

The antibacterial effect of Apo-Nitrofurantoin may be reduced by concomitant use of nalidixic acid. Absorption of the drug may be reduced with simultaneous use of antacids containing magnesium trisilicate. Apo-Nitrofurantoin is incompatible with fluoroquinolones. Agents that promote the excretion of uric acid (probenecid, sulfinpyrazone) can inhibit secretion by the renal tubules, thereby reducing the level of nitrofurantoin in the urine (decreasing the antibacterial effect) and increasing in the blood (increasing toxicity).

Overdose

An overdose of the drug is manifested by vomiting. When taking large amounts of fluid, there is an increase in the excretion of nitrofurantoin in the urine. In case of overdose, seek medical help immediately.

Dosage

The dosage of Apo-Nitrofurantoin depends on the type of infection and the severity of the disease. The usually recommended dose for adults is 50-100 mg 4 times a day for 7-10 days. To prevent infections during urological operations, cystoscopy and catheterization, it is recommended to take 50-100 mg 1-2 hours before the procedure and then 50-100 mg every 6 hours for 24-48 hours.

Conclusion

Apo-Nitrofurantoin is an effective antimicrobial agent for the treatment of urinary tract infections. However, before using it, you must make sure that there are no contraindications to its use. It is also important to monitor for possible side effects and seek medical attention if they occur. The dosage of Apo-Nitrofurantoin should be prescribed by a doctor and strictly followed by the patient.