Published: 3 June 2021

Publications

Nitrofurantoin: prescribe by brand

Published: 3 June 2021
Prescriber Update 42(2): 26–27
June 2021

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic indicated for the treatment or prophylaxis of urinary tract infection.¹

Nitrofurantoin is available as immediate-release tablets (Nifuran),² and more recently, as modified-release capsules (Macrobid).³ Healthcare professionals should note that the Macrobid product packaging does not state that:

• the capsule is modified release
• it currently has a 90 day ‘in-use’ shelf life.

Further information about Macrobid is available in the Dear Healthcare Professional Letter (PDF, 2 pages, 242 KB).

Healthcare professionals are reminded to prescribe nitrofurantoin by brand, because:

• the two formulations have different dosing regimens, which could potentially result in over- or under-dosing⁴
• Macrobid is not indicated for long-term prophylaxis or for children aged under 12 years.³

References

1. Medsafe. 2020. Spotlight on nitrofurantoin. Prescriber Update 41(1): 2–4. URL: medsafe.govt.nz/profs/PUArticles/March2020/Spotlight-nitrofurantoin.html (accessed 29 March 2021).
2. WM Bamford & Company Limited. 2017. Nifuran New Zealand Data Sheet 10 July 2017. URL: medsafe.govt.nz/profs/Datasheet/n/Nifurantab.pdf (accessed 26 March 2021).
3. Te Arai BioFarma Limited. 2021. Macrobid New Zealand Data Sheet 14 February 2021. URL: medsafe.govt.nz/profs/Datasheet/m/macrobidcap.pdf (accessed 26 March 2021).
4. New Zealand Formulary (NZF). 2021. NZF v105: Nitrofurantoin 1 March 2021. URL: nzf.org.nz/nzf_3293 (accessed 26 March 2021).