What is the best antibiotic for a UTI in the elderly?

Antibiotics are the treatment of choice for UTIs in older adults and younger people. Your doctor may prescribe amoxicillin and nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin). More severe infections may require a broad-spectrum antibiotic such as ciprofloxacin (Cetraxal, Ciloxan) and levofloxacin (Levaquin).

Can you give nitrofurantoin to elderly?

It is generally accepted that nitrofurantoin may be ineffective for UTIs in the elderly because age-related declines in renal function result in subtherapeutic concentrations in the urinary tract. However, the recommendation to avoid the drug in the elderly is not because it causes nephrotoxicity.

Why should nitrofurantoin be avoided in the elderly?

The amount of nitrofurantoin excreted into the urine is directly related to renal function. Nitrofurantoin may be ineffective for treatment of urinary tract infections in elderly patients with reduced renal function, but it is not contraindicated because of nephrotoxicity.

Why do UTIs cause confusion in elderly?

Because our immune system changes as we get older, it responds differently to the infection. Instead of pain symptoms, seniors with a UTI may show increased signs of confusion, agitation or withdrawal.

How good is nitrofurantoin for UTI?

Nitrofurantoin has an average rating of 4.2 out of 10 from a total of 1048 ratings for the treatment of Urinary Tract Infection. 26% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 55% reported a negative effect.

Is nitrofurantoin a good antibiotic?

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic that is used for treating urinary tract infections caused by several types of bacteria. It is effective against E. Coli, Enterobacter cystitis, Enterococcus, Klebsiella, and Staphylococcus aureus. Nitrofurantoin interferes with the production of bacterial proteins, DNA, and cell walls.

What are the side effects of nitrofurantoin in older men?

These structural or neurological abnormalities can be associated with several clinical factors including the use of catheters, neurogenicity of the bladder, and prostate enlargement in men [Mouton et al. 2001]. This study focuses on the effectiveness and safety of nitrofurantoin treatment of complicated UTIs in older men.

What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to nitrofurantoin?

Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb nitrofurantoin. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to nitrofurantoin: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Why is nitrofurantoin not used outside the urinary tract?

Nitrofurantoin’s bactericidal nature, nonspecific molecular target, and limited exposure outside the urinary tract may have contributed to the lack of large increases in resistance seen with this drug [McOsker and Fitzpatrick, 1994].

When do you see improvement after taking nitrofurantoin?

An improvement in symptoms may be noticed within a couple of days; however, it is important the course of nitrofurantoin is finished or the drug continues to be taken for at least three days following a clear urine sample.

What is the best antibiotic for a UTI in the elderly? Antibiotics are the treatment of choice for UTIs in older adults and younger people. Your doctor may prescribe amoxicillin and nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin). More severe infections may require a broad-spectrum antibiotic such as ciprofloxacin (Cetraxal, Ciloxan) and levofloxacin (Levaquin). Can you give nitrofurantoin to…