What is Macrodantin?Macrodantin is an antibiotic used to treat certain urinary tract infections.
What is the most important information I should know about Macrodantin?Like all antibiotics, Macrodantin works only against bacteria. It will not cure an infection caused by a virus, such as the common cold or flu.
After taking Macrodantin, immediate or delayed chronic lung reactions can occur that could lead to pneumonia, fibrosis of the lung, or death. These serious side effects are rare and are more likely to occur in patients who are taking Macrodantin 6 months or longer and who are >65 years old. If you are on long-term Macrodantin therapy, your doctor will monitor your lung function. If you experience any shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, cough, or chest pain, notify your doctor immediately.
Macrodantin can cause severe liver reactions that may result in liver damage and even death. If you notice the whites of your eyes or your skin turning yellow, or you have severe abdominal pain, inform your doctor immediately.
Macrodantin can cause severe or irreversible damage to nerves in arms, hands, legs, or feet, especially in patients with diabetes, vitamin B deficiency, anemia, electrolyte imbalances, kidney disease, or debilitating diseases.
Mild diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, a more serious form of diarrhea, although rare, may occur. Contact your doctor right away if you experience stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools. Do not treat the diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.
Rarely, Macrodantin can cause a severe deficiency of red blood cells in certain patients, including black patients and patients of Mediterranean or Near Eastern descent. This anemia can be reversed once you stop taking Macrodantin.
Who should not take Macrodantin?You should not take Macrodantin if you do not produce urine or you produce a small amount of urine, or if you have significant kidney impairment.
Do not take Macrodantin if you are pregnant at full term (38-42 weeks), during labor and delivery, or if the onset of labor is imminent. Macrodantin should not be given to neonates under 1 month of age.
Do not take Macrodantin if you are allergic or sensitive to it or any of its ingredients.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Macrodantin?Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Macrodantin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant and at full term (38-42 weeks), if you have liver or kidney problems, if you are >65 years old, or if you have a blood disease.
What is the usual dosage?The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.
Adults: The usual dosage is 50 -100 milligrams (mg) 4 times a day. For long-term suppressive therapy, 50-100 mg at bedtime may be enough.
Children ≥1 month: The usual dosage is 5-7 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day, given in 4 divided doses. For long-term suppressive therapy, doses as low as 1 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day, given in a single dose or in two divided doses may be enough.
Therapy should be continued for 1 week or for at least 3 days after clean urine samples are collected.
How should I take Macrodantin?Macrodantin should be taken with food to increase its absorption and decrease the occurrence of upset stomach.
It's important to take the full dosage schedule of Macrodantin, even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Macrodantin and similar antibiotics. If this happens, Macrodantin and similar antibiotics may not work in the future.
What should I avoid while taking Macrodantin?You should avoid taking antacids containing magnesium trisilicate while taking Macrodantin.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Macrodantin?If Macrodantin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Macrodantin with the following: antacids containing magnesium trisilicate, probenecid, or sulfinpyrazone.
What are the possible side effects of Macrodantin?Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.
Side effects may include: severe allergic reactions involving the lungs and skin, liver problems, nerve damage, swelling, hives, itching, rash, fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, headache, weakness, drowsiness
Can I receive Macrodantin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?The effects of Macrodantin during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Macrodantin?If you miss a dose of Macrodantin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
How should I store Macrodantin?Store Macrodantin at room temperature and protect from moisture.
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