Is nitrofurantoin affected by milk?

Understanding Nitrofurantoin and Its Interaction with Milk
Nitrofurantoin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic primarily used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs). As with many medications, patients often have questions about how food and drink can affect the efficacy of the drug. One common query is whether milk has any impact on nitrofurantoin.
Impact of Milk on Nitrofurantoin Absorption
Research indicates that nitrofurantoin can be taken with food, including milk, without significantly affecting its absorption. In fact, it is often recommended to take nitrofurantoin with food to enhance its absorption and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. This means that consuming milk while taking nitrofurantoin is generally safe and should not hinder the medication’s effectiveness.
Considerations for Specific Populations
While milk does not adversely affect the absorption of nitrofurantoin, there are specific considerations for certain populations, particularly breastfeeding mothers. Nitrofurantoin is known to transfer into breast milk in small amounts, but it is considered safe for use during breastfeeding, especially for older infants. However, healthcare providers often recommend alternative antibiotics for mothers nursing newborns under eight weeks old due to the potential risk of hemolysis in infants with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
Conclusion
In summary, milk does not negatively impact the absorption of nitrofurantoin, making it safe to consume alongside this antibiotic. For breastfeeding mothers, while nitrofurantoin is generally safe, caution is advised for those with very young infants. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding medication and dietary interactions.

Is nitrofurantoin dairy free?

Nitrofurantoin Capsules contains
One 100 mg capsule contains 207 mg lactose. This should be taken into account in patients with lactose intolerance. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

What interferes with nitrofurantoin?

Cautions with other medicines

• indigestion remedies known as antacids, particularly those that contain magnesium.
• cystitis remedies you can buy from a pharmacy.
• antibiotics known as quinolones, including nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin and moxifloxacin.

Can I take nitrofurantoin with milk?

Nitrofurantoin is best taken with food or milk. This may lessen stomach upset and help your body to absorb the medicine. Shake the oral liquid forcefully before each dose to make sure the medicine is evenly mixed. Use a specially marked measuring spoon or other device to measure each dose accurately.

Do nitrofurantoin tablets contain lactose?

Nitrofurantoin Tablets may cause dizziness and drowsiness. You should not drive or operate machinery if you are affected this way until such symptoms go away. This medicine contains lactose (sugars).

Should you avoid milk when taking antibiotics?

It’s recommended that dairy products such as cheese, milk, butter, and yogurt should not be consumed until 3 hours after a dose of antibiotics is taken. Likewise, juices or supplements containing calcium may also reduce effectiveness.

What foods should I avoid when taking nitrofurantoin?

There are no known drug-food interactions with nitrofurantoin. Acidic foods, spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine can aggravate UTI symptoms and nitrofurantoin side effects, so you may want to avoid these while taking nitrofurantoin. It is not uncommon to experience diarrhea, nausea, and gas while taking nitrofurantoin.

Can I drink milk with nitrofurantoin?

Nitrofurantoin is best taken with food or milk. This may lessen stomach upset and help your body to absorb the medicine. Shake the oral liquid forcefully before each dose to make sure the medicine is evenly mixed. Use a specially marked measuring spoon or other device to measure each dose accurately.

What not to drink while taking nitrofurantoin?

No, it is advised that you should not drink alcohol while taking Nitrofurantoin. Alcohol can decrease the effectiveness of this antibiotic and can also increase the risk of side effects like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and headache.

Which antibiotics are affected by milk?

Common dairy product interactions include certain antibiotics, such as tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, osteoporosis medications, and iron supplements. Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Unithroid), lithium (Lithobid), and HIV medications also interact with dairy products.

How long after taking antibiotics can I eat dairy?

Dairy products include milk, butter, yogurt, and cheese. After taking an antibiotic you may need to wait for up to three hours before eating or drinking any dairy products. Grapefruit juice and dietary supplements containing minerals like calcium may also lessen the effect of antibiotics.