How Long Does Macrobid Take to Work?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are relatively common health problems. They include a wide range of conditions that affect different parts of your urinary tract, including your bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), or kidneys (kidney infection). 

Some UTIs can be treated with natural remedies or lifestyle changes. But, in some cases, antibiotics may be required. 

Macrobid is a popularly prescribed antibiotic known for its effectiveness in treating UTIs. Here is a look at how Macrobid works and how long it takes to treat the symptoms and root cause of a UTI.

What is Macrobid?

Macrobid is an antibiotic used to treat a urinary tract infection. The symptoms of a UTI are different depending on the source of the infection. 

For example, if the infection is in your bladder, then the common symptoms include cloudy or bloody urine, more frequent urination, a burning sensation when urinating, and a fever. 

A UTI in the urethra can cause many of the basic symptoms, as well as difficulty urinating and a strong and bad smell in the urine. A UTI in the kidney causes severe symptoms. 

They include all of the above, as well as nausea and vomiting, pain in the side, back, or groin, chills, shaking, and pain in the lower back, side, or groin.

How Long Does Macrobid Take to Work?

For Uncomplicated UTI:

Macrobid begins to work within the first two days for patients with an uncomplicated UTI. This means you can expect relief from UTI symptoms by the second day of treatment. 

However, it is essential that you finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms disappear completely. The usual course is 50 to 100mg of Macrobid twice a day for three to seven days with food.

For UTI Prevention:

Macrobid is sometimes prescribed for preventing a flare-up of a recurring UTI. For prevention, your doctor may recommend a single dose of 100 mg after an event that can trigger a UTI, such as sexual intercourse. 

Or they may advise you to take one 50 to 100 mg tablet before bed. The duration of preventive therapy can vary from days to weeks, and sometimes months. It is unusual for a doctor to prescribe Macrobid for more than six months.

How effective is Macrobid for treating UTIs?

Macrobid contains the active ingredient nitrofurantoin, which targets and eliminates the bacteria that cause UTIs. It is a highly effective antibiotic for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) quickly and effectively. 

Macrobid takes between 3-7 days to treat a UTI. If your symptoms have not improved by day 5 or if you begin to feel worse, speak to your doctor or healthcare professional. You may have a more serious infection that requires a different course or combination of treatments.

How Long Do I Need to Take Macrobid For?

The exact duration of treatment and dosage will vary according to several factors, including the type and severity of the infection, as well as your individual needs. 

But, generally speaking, the standard course of Macrobid for an uncomplicated UTI in women is 5 days. For men, a 7-day course of treatment is usually recommended.

Will taking Macrobid give me thrush?

You may develop thrush when taking Macrobid. Thrush is a common yeast infection that causes itching, soreness, and occasional discharge in and around the genital area. It is not serious but will require treatment. 

Like many other antibiotics, Macrobid can kill the normal harmless bacteria that protect you against thrush. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you notice any thrush symptoms. Most cases can be treated with a cream, antifungal medication, or a pessary.

What else can I do to treat my UTI while taking Macrobid?

There are several things you can do alongside taking the medication to ease your symptoms and speed up your recovery. These include:

• Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol can help ease any feelings of discomfort and bring down a high temperature.
• Abstain from sexual activity for a few days. A UTI is not an STD, but sexual activity can aggravate symptoms.
• Urinate as soon as you feel the urge and ensure you fully empty the bladder.
• Avoid using condoms, diaphragms, or lubricants until the infection has cleared up.
• Stay hydrated. Try to drink between 6-8 glasses of water per day.
• Keep scented bubble baths, shower gels, and talcum powder away from the genital area.
• Women should wipe their bottom from front to back when going to the toilet.
• Wear cotton underwear instead of underwear made from nylon and other synthetic materials.
• Wear loose-fitting jeans, leggings, or jogging bottoms for a few days.

Will drinking cranberry juice cure a UTI?

Some evidence suggests that drinking cranberry juice may help cure or prevent UTIs, especially in women. However, it's important to note that no conclusive studies have been conducted suggesting that cranberry juice is a treatment for UTIs, and its effectiveness remains inconclusive.

Authored & Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Published on: 24/08/2023 Reviewed on: 01/11/2023