Furadantin
Furadantin is a brand-name antibiotic used to treat and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). It works by targeting and killing susceptible bacteria in the urinary tract. This medication is typically prescribed for uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections and is not indicated for kidney infections.
Furadantin is an antibiotic used to treat and prevent urinary tract infections.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 258353
- Generic
- Furadantin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Furadantin is used to treat acute uncomplicated urinary tract infections and for prevention of recurrent UTIs. It is generally prescribed for infections of the bladder and urethra (lower urinary tract), not for kidney infections (pyelonephritis). It is effective against certain gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria commonly responsible for UTIs, such as E. coli.
Nitrofurantoin (the active ingredient) works by damaging bacterial DNA, RNA, and proteins. It interferes with multiple bacterial cellular processes, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death. The medication concentrates in the urine, making it particularly effective for urinary tract infections.
Furadantin should be taken with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset. It is contraindicated in patients with severe kidney impairment, infants under one month, and during late pregnancy (term). Common side effects may include nausea, headache, and rust-colored urine. Patients should complete the full course of treatment as prescribed. Resistance development is relatively uncommon compared to other antibiotics.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy