Macrodantin is a prescription medication that is used to treat urinary tract infections caused by bacteria. Macrodantin contains the antibiotic nitrofurantoin macrocrystal. Nitrofurantoin macrocrystal works by stopping the bacteria from growing.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Macrodantin should be taken with food, even if taken at bedtime.
• Take Macrodantin for the full amount of time prescribed, even if symptoms have improved or cleared. You may need to continue taking this medication for another week after lab results show the infection has cleared.
• You may need to have regular medical tests while taking this medication.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, including antacids.
• Your medical history particularly of kidney disease, liver problems, diabetes, urination problems, anemia, electrolyte imbalance, vitamin B deficiency, jaundice, G6PD deficiency or any type of debilitating disease.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. This medication should not be taken after 38 weeks of pregnancy.
• If you are breast-feeding. While taking Macrodantin, do not breast-feed a baby younger than one-month-old.

You should also know:

• This medication can affect medical test results. All of your doctors should be aware that you take Macrodantin.
• If this medication causes diarrhea, do not use anti-diarrhea medication without speaking to your doctor.

Common side effects of Macrodantin include but are not limited to:

• Headache.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Dizziness, drowsiness, or weakness.
• Temporary hair loss.
• Muscle pain.
• Joint pain.
• Indigestion, gas, or loss of appetite.
• Itching or rash.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of nitrofurantoin macrocrystal:

• Bloody or watery diarrhea. This may happen months after your last dose. Do not use anti-diarrhea medication without speaking to your doctor.
• Severe stomach pain.
• Fever, cough, or chills.
• Weakness or pale skin.
• Severe pain behind your eyes.
• Breathing troubles.
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands or feet.
• Vision problems.
• Redness.
• Swelling with fever, swollen glands, or muscle aches.
• Joint pain.
• Signs of a severe skin reaction such as skin pain, sore throat, fever, burning eyes, or a red or purple skin rash that peels and blisters.
• Signs of increased skull pressure including pain behind your eyes, severe headaches, ringing in your ears, nausea, dizziness, or vision problems.
• Signs of a liver or pancreas problem including nausea, vomiting, dark urine, upper stomach pain that can spread to your back or jaundice.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Macrodantin?

If you miss a dose of Macrodantin, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What is the strength of Macrodantin?

Both Macrodantin and nitrofurantoin macrocrystal are available in strengths of 50mg.