Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by a urinary tract infection (UTI). It can affect anyone of any age, but is more likely to occur in women. It can be treated with a 3-day course of antibiotics.
Symptoms of cystitis
Cystitis typically causes an urge to urinate (wee), the need to pass urine frequently and a burning or stinging feeling when you urinate. Occasionally, cystitis can cause feverish symptoms, discomfort in your lower tummy and blood in your urine.
Causes of cystitis
Cystitis is usually caused by bacteria in your bladder or urethra (the tube that carries wee out of your body). It’s more common in women than in men because women have a shorter urethra, located near to the anus, so it comes into contact with bacteria more easily.
Cystitis treatment
The first-choice treatment for cystitis is an antibiotic called Nitrofurantoin.
Mild symptoms of UTIs can clear up on their own within a few days. You should drink plenty of water and refrain from sexual intercourse during this time. Over-the-counter painkillers can also be taken to help relieve pain or discomfort.
Nitrofurantoin
Nitrofurantoin is a recommended antibiotic treatment for cystitis – also called a urinary tract infection (UTI). It’s a capsule that must be taken twice a day for 3 days with food or milk.
Taking Nitrofurantoin
Take 1 capsule twice a day for 3 days. This treatment should be taken at meal times with either food or milk.
How it works
Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic. It works by killing the bacteria within the urinary tract or bladder that cause the infection.
Side effects
Nitrofurantoin can cause side effects in some people. These can include loss of appetite, nausea (feeling sick), vomiting, loose stools, and stomach ache.
For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, contact us via your Patient Record.
Effectiveness
– Nitrofurantoin is the first-choice treatment for uncomplicated UTIs like cystitis.
– Your cystitis should clear up in 48-72hrs of starting the treatment.
– Please note, Nitrofurantoin will not prevent future UTIs.
Important information about Nitrofurantoin
If your symptoms worsen at any time or do not improve within 48 Hours you should see a doctor in person as you may need further testing or an alternative treatment.
Occasionally, UTIs may spread to your kidney causing symptoms of fever, back pain and vomiting. If you get any of these symptoms you should seek an urgent assessment from your GP, local walk-in centre or A&E department.
Safety: taking other medicines
As is true of all medication, Nitrofurantoin can interact with other medicines. This is why it’s important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are taking so that we can prescribe Nitrofurantoin safely.
Alternative treatments
Nitrofurantoin has been recognised as the first-choice antibiotic treatment for all UTIs by Public Health England. However, if for any reason Nitrofurantoin is not suitable for you, our clinicians may prescribe Trimethoprim as an alternative treatment.
Mild symptoms of UTIs may also clear up on their own within a few days. You should drink plenty of water and refrain from sexual intercourse during this time. Over-the-counter painkillers can also be taken to help relieve pain or discomfort
