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Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial urinary bladder infections. It is typically used as a second-line antibiotic, when broad-spectrum antibiotics have not cleared the infection.
It is used “off label” or “extra label” in veterinary medicine. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully.
Nitrofurantoin comes in capsule or liquid suspension forms.
This medication may start working within 1–2 hours. This medication is short-acting, meaning that effects should stop within 24 hours.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Nitrofurantoin may cause the following side effects:
The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
This medication should NOT BE USED in:
This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in animals who:
Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with nitrofurantoin, including:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Your veterinarian may schedule a follow-up visit to ensure the infection has been cleared and/or do additional testing to ensure this is the right medication for the type of infection present. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
© Copyright 2024 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Doctorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health.
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