What is Uribid tablet

Uribid is an antibiotic medication containing Nitrofurantoin, specifically designed to treat and prevent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) caused by susceptible bacteria. Its active ingredient, Nitrofurantoin, belongs to the class of synthetic nitrofuran antimicrobials. They are particularly effective against common urinary pathogens like Escherichia coli, Enterococci, Staphylococci, and certain strains of Klebsiella and Enterobacter.

It works by inhibiting bacterial enzymes and damaging bacterial DNA, effectively killing the infection-causing bacteria in the urinary tract. It primarily treats acute uncomplicated UTIs (Cystitis) and prevents recurrent UTIs. Unlike many other antibiotics, Nitrofurantoin concentrates in the urine rather than in the bloodstream, making it highly effective for urinary infections while minimizing systemic side effects. 

Common side effects of this medication may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and dark yellow or brown urine. Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer, produces this medication under strict quality control measures, ensuring safety and effectiveness in treating Urinary Tract Infections.

What are the benefits of Uribid tablet

Uribid contains Nitrofurantoin, which exhibits a unique dual mechanism of action. In its reduced form, it interacts with bacterial ribosomal proteins to inhibit protein synthesis, RNA synthesis, and other metabolic processes. Additionally, it damages bacterial DNA through oxidative stress. 

This dual approach makes bacterial resistance development less likely compared to other antibiotics.

Key benefits of the tablet include:

• Highly effective against most common urinary tract pathogens.
• Concentrates specifically in the urinary tract for targeted action.
• Lower risk of antibiotic resistance when compared to other antibiotics.
• Suitable for both treatment of acute UTIs and prevention of recurrent infections.
• Minimal disruption to normal intestinal flora compared to broader-spectrum antibiotics.

How to take Uribid tablet

The prescription medication should be taken per your doctor's instructions. Here are the general guidelines:

• For recurrent UTIs, it is usually taken once daily at bedtime.
• It is typically taken twice daily for 5-7 days for acute UTI treatment.
• Take the tablet with food or milk to enhance absorption and reduce stomach discomfort.
• Do not exceed the prescribed Nitrofurantoin dosage or duration of treatment.
• Complete the entire course even if symptoms improve to prevent reinfection.

Strength and substitutes

Currently, there are no strength alternatives. However, the following substitutes are available:

View all substitutes

What are the side effects of Uribid tablet

This medicine is generally effective when used appropriately. However, it may cause side effects, including:

• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
• Dark yellow or brown urine discoloration
• Diarrhea or abdominal pain
• Dizziness or headache

These adverse effects typically do not require medical consultation and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, unusual fatigue, or signs of liver problems like yellowing eyes/skin.

Safety Advice

Liver disease

Patients with liver disease should use this medicine with caution. Nitrofurantoin may cause hepatotoxicity, particularly with prolonged use. Baseline and periodic liver function tests are required. Use is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or hepatitis. Discontinue immediately if signs of liver damage appear.

Kidney impairment

Uribid is contraindicated in patients with severe kidney impairment (creatinine clearance below 60 ml/min) or significant kidney disease. The drug may not concentrate sufficiently in urine for effectiveness in these patients, and there's an increased risk of toxic effects due to higher serum levels. Regular kidney function monitoring is essential.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women

This medication is generally considered safe during pregnancy (FDA Pregnancy Category B), except near term (38-42 weeks), and during labor and delivery due to potential Hemolytic Anemia in the newborn. It passes into breast milk and is generally compatible with breastfeeding in healthy infants over one month of age but should be avoided in G6PD-deficient infants or those under one month. 

Avoid

Avoid antacids containing magnesium trisilicate, as they can decrease the absorption of Nitrofurantoin. Probenecid and Sulfinpyrazone may reduce the effectiveness by lowering the medicine concentration in urine. Also, avoid alcohol consumption.