GNH USA

Europe — EMA

Nitrofurantoin Mercury Pharmaceuticals

GNH USA supplies Nitrofurantoin Mercury Pharmaceuticals (Nitrofurantoin), a nitrofuran antibiotic for urinary tract infections in patients. Request a quote.

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What is Nitrofurantoin?

Nitrofurantoin, the active ingredient in Nitrofurantoin Mercury Pharmaceuticals, is a nitrofuran antibiotic presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It treats uncomplicated urinary tract infections in adult patients by targeting the bacteria that cause bladder infections, and is often chosen when alternative agents are unsuitable or resistance is a concern.

GNH USA supplies Nitrofurantoin Mercury Pharmaceuticals as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, providing reliable access to quality‑assured medicines for healthcare providers and patients.

What is Nitrofurantoin used for?

Nitrofurantoin is a nitrofuran antibiotic used to treat infections of the urinary tract. - Uncomplicated urinary tract infection: eliminates susceptible uropathogens and relieves dysuria and frequency. - Acute cystitis: provides rapid bacterial eradication, reducing symptom duration. - Prophylaxis of recurrent urinary tract infection: suppresses bacterial colonisation when used intermittently.

What are the side effects of Nitrofurantoin?

Nitrofurantoin may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea: mild stomach upset occurring early in therapy. - Loss of appetite: reduced desire to eat. - Headache: transient cranial discomfort. - Diarrhoea: loose stools, usually self‑limiting. - Metallic taste: altered taste sensation. - Rash: mild skin redness or itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Pulmonary toxicity: interstitial lung disease presenting with cough and breathlessness. - Hepatic injury: elevated liver enzymes or jaundice. - Severe allergic reaction: anaphylaxis with swelling, hives, and airway compromise. - Hemolytic anemia: especially in patients with G6PD deficiency. - Peripheral neuropathy: numbness or tingling in extremities. - Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin blistering and detachment.

What precautions apply to Nitrofurantoin?

Before prescribing nitrofurantoin, clinicians should consider several safety precautions to minimise risk. - Renal function assessment: avoid use in patients with creatinine clearance below 60 mL/min due to insufficient urinary concentrations. - Pregnancy category B: use only when clearly needed, as safety data are limited. - G6PD deficiency: contraindicated because of risk of hemolytic anemia. - Elderly patients: monitor for signs of pulmonary toxicity and reduced renal function. - Drug interaction review: assess concomitant medications that may affect absorption or clearance. - Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

What does Nitrofurantoin interact with?

Nitrofurantoin can interact with other medicines, altering its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum: markedly reduce nitrofurantoin absorption. - Probenecid: increases nitrofurantoin plasma levels, raising toxicity risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect, requiring INR monitoring. - Diuretics: can affect renal clearance, necessitating dose adjustment. - Oral contraceptives: may reduce contraceptive effectiveness, advise additional protection.

Frequently asked questions

What is Nitrofurantoin used for?+
Nitrofurantoin is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It is commonly prescribed for acute cystitis and may be used intermittently to prevent recurrent infections in patients with a history of frequent UTIs.
How does Nitrofurantoin work?+
Nitrofurantoin is converted by bacterial flavoprotein enzymes into reactive metabolites that bind to bacterial DNA and other macromolecules. This binding damages the bacterial genome and interferes with essential cellular processes, ultimately inhibiting bacterial growth and leading to bacterial death.
What determines the dose of Nitrofurantoin?+
The prescribed dose of Nitrofurantoin is set by the treating clinician based on factors such as the severity of infection, the patient’s renal function, age, and any relevant comorbidities. Dosage regimens are individualized and should follow the prescriber’s instructions.
Is Nitrofurantoin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?+
Nitrofurantoin is classified as pregnancy category B, indicating that animal studies have not shown risk but adequate human data are lacking. It may be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Small amounts are excreted in breast milk; caution is advised, and the prescriber should evaluate the risk‑benefit ratio.
How do I order Nitrofurantoin Mercury Pharmaceuticals from GNH USA?+
Enquiries for Nitrofurantoin Mercury Pharmaceuticals can be submitted through the product page on gnh-usa.com. Provide the required quantity, and GNH USA will contact you to verify institutional or trade credentials, then supply pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.
How does Nitrofurantoin compare with the main alternative drug or class?+
The most common alternative for uncomplicated UTIs is trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole. Nitrofurantoin offers a different mechanism of action and retains activity against many strains resistant to trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole. It is generally well‑tolerated but requires adequate renal function for urinary concentration, whereas trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole may be used in patients with reduced kidney function.
How should Nitrofurantoin be stored and handled?+
Nitrofurantoin tablets should be stored at room temperature, below 25 °C, in the original packaging to protect from moisture and light. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not store in humid or excessively hot environments.
How is Nitrofurantoin administered?+
Nitrofurantoin is taken orally, usually as a tablet, with a full glass of water. It can be taken with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal irritation. The exact timing and frequency are determined by the prescriber, and the full course should be completed even if symptoms improve.
What are the most serious risks associated with Nitrofurantoin?+
Serious adverse reactions include pulmonary toxicity (interstitial lung disease), hepatic injury, severe allergic responses such as anaphylaxis, hemolytic anemia in patients with G6PD deficiency, peripheral neuropathy, and rare skin reactions like Stevens‑Johnson syndrome. Prompt medical attention is required if any of these occur.
Who should not use Nitrofurantoin?+
Nitrofurantoin should be avoided in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <60 mL/min), known hypersensitivity to nitrofurantoin or other nitrofurans, G6PD deficiency, and in those who have previously experienced serious pulmonary or hepatic reactions to the drug.
Information provided on this page is for educational use by procurement and clinical professionals. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for medical advice and prescribing decisions. GNH USA supplies this product subject to applicable regulatory and licensing requirements.

Product details

Drug
Nitrofurantoin
Route
Oral Use
Manufacturer
Mercury Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Origin
EU

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