Antibiotics commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections (UTIs) include:
- Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin): Often used for uncomplicated UTIs and effective against common bacteria like E. coli
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra): A frequently used combination antibiotic for uncomplicated UTIs, though resistance rates may affect its use
- Fosfomycin (Monurol): A single-dose antibiotic option for uncomplicated UTIs, targeting bacteria such as E. coli
- Cephalexin : A first-generation cephalosporin used sometimes, but generally not first-line due to resistance concerns; third-generation cephalosporins like cefixime may be used in resistant cases
- Doxycycline : Occasionally used, but with precautions due to side effects and interactions
- Amoxicillin and Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate): Sometimes prescribed but less favored due to resistance and recurrence issues
For complicated UTIs or severe infections, intravenous antibiotics such as ceftriaxone or newer agents like Exblifep (cefepime/enmetazobactam) may be used, often requiring hospital treatment
. Newer FDA-approved antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs include:
- Pivmecillinam (Pivya) : Approved in 2024 for uncomplicated UTIs in women, dosed three times daily for 3-7 days
- Orlynvah (sulopenem etzadroxil and probenecid): Approved in late 2024 for uncomplicated UTIs, effective against resistant bacteria
The choice of antibiotic depends on whether the UTI is uncomplicated or complicated, local resistance patterns, patient history, and safety considerations. For uncomplicated UTIs, first-line options typically include nitrofurantoin, fosfomycin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole unless resistance or allergies dictate otherwise
. In summary, the main antibiotics given for UTIs are nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, fosfomycin, cephalexin, doxycycline, and amoxicillin-based drugs, with newer options like pivmecillinam and Orlynvah available for specific cases
