Antibiotic nitrofurantoin uses?

Nitrofurantoin is a urinary tract–restricted antibiotic. Its main uses are:

- Acute uncomplicated cystitis (lower UTI) in nonpregnant women (and sometimes in men, depending on local guidelines).
- Prophylaxis to prevent recurrent UTIs (low-dose regular use or after intercourse in some patients).

Not used for:
- Upper urinary tract infections (pyelonephritis) or systemic infections, because it doesn’t reach good tissue levels outside the bladder.
- Infections caused by many organisms it doesn’t cover (some Proteus, Pseudomonas, etc.).

Notes:
- It’s often avoided in significant renal impairment and near term in pregnancy; in pregnancy it may be used in certain trimesters under a clinician’s guidance.
- Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset; rare but serious risks include lung, liver, or blood problems with long-term use. It’s usually taken with food to improve absorption and lessen GI upset.

If you tell me your population (pregnant, male, child, kidney function) or whether you want dosing details, I can tailor the info.