Nitrofurantoin

Antibiotic (urinary)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Nitrofurantoin is a antibiotic (urinary) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Niftran 100. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats and prevents bladder infections.

How it works

An antibiotic that concentrates in urine and is used for bladder infections (cystitis).

How to take it

Usually 50 to 100 mg four times a day or 100 mg slow-release twice a day, with food, for 3 to 7 days. Urine may turn dark yellow or brown.

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache

Get medical help straight away if

  • Cough, chest pain or breathlessness
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Yellow skin

Be careful

Take with food; turns urine dark yellow-brown.

Other medicines and interactions

Magnesium antacids reduce absorption. Not effective if kidney function is poor.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid at the end of pregnancy (near term). Usually acceptable while breastfeeding unless the baby is very young or has G6PD deficiency.

Brands of Nitrofurantoin (1)

Niftran 100

Common questions

What is Nitrofurantoin used for?

Treats and prevents bladder infections.

How does Nitrofurantoin work?

An antibiotic that concentrates in urine and is used for bladder infections (cystitis).

How should I take Nitrofurantoin?

Usually 50 to 100 mg four times a day or 100 mg slow-release twice a day, with food, for 3 to 7 days. Urine may turn dark yellow or brown.

What are the side effects of Nitrofurantoin?

Common: Nausea, loss of appetite, headache. Get help straight away for: Cough, chest pain or breathlessness, numbness or tingling, yellow skin.

Does Nitrofurantoin interact with other medicines?

Magnesium antacids reduce absorption. Not effective if kidney function is poor.

Is Nitrofurantoin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Avoid at the end of pregnancy (near term). Usually acceptable while breastfeeding unless the baby is very young or has G6PD deficiency.

Does Nitrofurantoin need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Nitrofurantoin?

Niftran 100.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.