How to use
Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) should be taken orally, usually 2 or 4 times a day, and swallowed whole. Take this medication with a glass of milk or food. Follow the instruction of your doctor exactly, even if they differ from the usually recommended dosage.

Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) works best when taken regularly and at approximately the same time every day. This will ensure there is always a constant level of medication in your bloodstream.

If you are taking Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) to prevent an infection, make sure you do not skip any doses. Follow the instructions of your doctor and notify him straightaway if you notice any signs of a new infection.

If you are taking Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) to treat an existing infection, keep taking the pills until your prescription has finished. Do not stop taking this medication early, even if the symptoms have disappeared, as this may lead to a relapse of the infection. Notify your doctor if your condition gets worse.

Overdose

If you think you have used too much of this medication, contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services immediately.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin), take the missed dose as soon as you remember.  If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one.  Do not take extra medication to make up for a missed dose.

Notes

Laboratory and medical tests should be performed regularly to chart your progress and check for side effects.

Only use Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) to treat the infection for which it was prescribed. You may need a different treatment or medication for other infections.

Do not share this medication with others, as they may have a condition that is not effectively treated with Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin).

Storage

Store Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) and away from light and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL OTHER MEDICATION OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Important Note

The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.

* Illustrations are for graphic purposes only and the ordered medication may differ in appearance.

Precautions
Before taking Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin), you should discuss your medical history with your doctor. Especially mention:

• Any allergies
• Little or no urine output (oliguria or anuria)
• Severe kidney diseases
• Certain genetic conditions (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency)
• A history of liver problems due to nitrofurantoin use in the past
• Certain blood disorders (e.g.  anemia)
• Kidney or liver problems
• Lung diseases
• Certain nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy)
• Certain eye diseases (optic neuritis)
• Diabetes
• Untreated mineral imbalance
• Vitamin B deficiency

If you are currently suffering or ever have suffered from any of the above conditions, you may not be able to take Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) or you may need a dosage adjustment.

Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you are sure you can perform those activities safely.

Caution is advised when Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) is used by elderly people as they may be more sensitive to certain side effects of this medication, such as lung or liver problems.

Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) is classed as Pregnancy Category B, which means this medication is not expected to cause harm to an unborn baby. However, do not take this medication without talking to your doctor first if you are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment.

Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) is excreted into breast milk. Discuss the risks and benefits of taking this medication while breastfeeding with your doctor. In any case, these pills should not be used by mothers breastfeeding a baby of less than one month old.

Drug Interactions

Before taking Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin), discuss the use of the following medications with your doctor:

• Quinolone antibiotics (e.g. norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin)
• Probenecid
• Sulfinpyrazone

This medication may affect the results of certain urine glucose tests. Don’t forget to mention to the doctors and staff that you are taking these pills.

This is only a partial list and interactions with other medication may occur. Inform your doctor of all other prescription and non-prescription medication you use, including herbal pills, dietary supplements, vitamins, minerals and medication prescribed by other doctors. Do not start or stop using any medication without discussing this with your doctor first.

The following common side effects of Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) may occur:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness

Taking this medication with food may help minimize nausea. If any of the above side effects persist or worsen, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Inform your doctor straightaway if any of the following rare but very serious side effects occur:

• New signs of infection (e.g. fever or persistent sore throat)
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Mental or mood changes
• Persistent or severe headaches
• Vision changes

Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) may turn your urine dark yellow to brown in color. This is a harmless side effect that will disappear as soon as you stop taking the medication.

In rare cases, Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) may cause very serious lung problems. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Unusual or persistent cough

Rarely, this medication may also cause serious liver, blood or nerve conditions. Notify your doctor straightaway if you experience any of these rare but very serious symptoms:

• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual or persistent fatigue
• Fast or pounding heartbeat
• Numbness or tingling of the arms or legs
• Muscle weakness

In rare cases, Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin) may cause a severe intestinal condition called Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms and do not take any diarrhea or narcotic pain medication as they could make the symptoms worse:

• Persistent diarrhea
• Abdominal or stomach pain or cramping
• Blood or mucus in your stool

If you use this medication for a prolonged period of time or for repeated periods, you may be more at risk for oral thrush or a new vaginal yeast infection. Notify your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:

• White patches in the mouth
• A change in vaginal discharge
• Other new symptoms

You are unlikely to experience a severe allergic reaction to Generic Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin), but seek immediate medical attention if it does occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

This is only a partial list and other side effects may occur. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any side effects other than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.