Buy Nitrofurantoin online with free consultation & prescription
Book a quick face-to-face video consultation with a UK certified prescribing pharmacist, nurse, or doctor. If approved, your Nitrofurantoin will be prescribed* and delivered straight to your door with next working day tracked delivery†. Avoid GP waiting lists. No delays. Just expert care.
Nitrofurantoin is indicated for the treatment of Cystitis.
*Includes Free Private Prescription & Consultation.
†Applies to UK only.
Manufactured by Mercury Pharma.

Nitrofurantoin doses and pack sizes

Nitrofurantoin
Nitrofurantoin doses and pack sizes
*Your clinician will recommend the right strength and quantity for you during the consultation.
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Nitrofurantoin prices
| Brand/Generic | Form | Dosage | Quantity | Price | Delivery Cost | Consultation Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NitrofurantoinGeneric | M/R capsules | 100mg | 14 | £17.39 | £0.00*(with Core+ Plan) | £0.00 |
FAQs
Answers to popular questions about Nitrofurantoin
What is Nitrofurantoin?
Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic used specifically to treat and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). It is available as capsules (50 mg and 100 mg) and a modified-release formulation (Macrobid 100 mg). Nitrofurantoin works directly in the urinary tract and achieves high concentrations in the urine, making it highly effective against common UTI-causing bacteria. It is a first-line treatment for uncomplicated lower UTIs (cystitis) in the UK and is recommended by NICE guidelines.
How does Nitrofurantoin work?
Nitrofurantoin is a nitrofuran antibiotic that is reduced by bacterial enzymes to reactive intermediates that damage bacterial DNA, RNA, proteins, and cell walls. It is effective against most common UTI pathogens including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Klebsiella species. Importantly, resistance rates remain very low — under 5% in the UK for E. coli — making it one of the most reliable UTI antibiotics available.
What is the difference between Nitrofurantoin and Macrobid?
Macrobid is a brand name for nitrofurantoin 100 mg modified-release capsules. Standard nitrofurantoin capsules (50 mg or 100 mg) are taken four times daily, while Macrobid is taken twice daily due to its modified-release formulation. The convenience of twice-daily dosing makes Macrobid the more commonly prescribed form. Both are equally effective.
What is the usual dose of Nitrofurantoin?
For acute uncomplicated UTI: Macrobid (modified-release) 100 mg twice daily for 3 days (women) or 7 days (men); or standard nitrofurantoin 50 mg four times daily for 3–7 days. For UTI prophylaxis (recurrent UTIs): 50–100 mg once daily at bedtime for 3–6 months. Always take nitrofurantoin with food or milk, as this improves absorption and reduces nausea.
Should I take Nitrofurantoin with food?
Yes, always take nitrofurantoin with food or a glass of milk. Taking it with food significantly improves absorption (by up to 40%) and greatly reduces the most common side effect — nausea. If you take it on an empty stomach, you are much more likely to experience stomach upset.
What are the side effects of Nitrofurantoin?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and diarrhoea — these are significantly reduced by taking the medication with food. The urine may turn dark yellow or brown, which is harmless. Uncommon but important side effects include pulmonary reactions (breathlessness, cough — stop and seek help), peripheral neuropathy (tingling in hands/feet — stop immediately), and hepatic reactions. These are more common with long-term use.
Who should not take Nitrofurantoin?
Nitrofurantoin should not be used in patients with significant renal impairment (eGFR less than 45 ml/min for treatment courses, or less than 45 ml/min for prophylaxis), as adequate urinary concentrations cannot be achieved and the risk of side effects increases. It should not be used for upper UTIs (pyelonephritis) as it does not achieve adequate blood/tissue levels. It is also contraindicated in G6PD deficiency and in the last trimester of pregnancy.
Can I take Nitrofurantoin during pregnancy?
Nitrofurantoin can be used in pregnancy for UTI treatment during the first and second trimesters when a suitable alternative is not available. It should be avoided at term (from 36 weeks) due to the theoretical risk of neonatal haemolysis. Trimethoprim (an alternative UTI antibiotic) should be avoided in the first trimester. Your doctor or midwife will choose the safest option for your stage of pregnancy.
Can I drink alcohol with Nitrofurantoin?
There is no specific interaction between nitrofurantoin and alcohol. However, alcohol can irritate the bladder and may worsen UTI symptoms. It is generally advisable to avoid or limit alcohol while treating a UTI. Staying well-hydrated with water is more beneficial for recovery.
How can I get Nitrofurantoin?
Nitrofurantoin requires a prescription and is available on the NHS from your GP, walk-in centre, or through online services like NowPatient. For recurrent UTIs, NHS pharmacy services may be able to supply nitrofurantoin under a Patient Group Direction. NowPatient offers convenient online consultations for UTI treatment and home delivery.
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