Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on March 16, 2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

What are the side effects of nitrofurantoin?

The use of nitrofurantoin has been shown to cause side effects in some patients.

Common mild side effects of nitrofurantoin use include:

• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Stomach discomfort
  
• Heartburn
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Dizziness
  
• Headache
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Hair loss
  
• Weakness
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Rash
  
• Hives
  
• Swelling
  
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  
• Chest tightness
  
• Fever
  
• Chills
  
• Cough
  
• Severe or bloody diarrhea
  
• Numbness or tingling in the fingertips
  
• Dizziness
  
• Paleness
  
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  
• Lung inflammation or damage
  
• Severe diarrhea
  
  

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any severe symptoms while taking nitrofurantoin. If you experience mild side effects that become severe or do not go away after a few days, speak to a healthcare provider right away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using nitrofurantoin?

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with nitrofurantoin. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with this drug.

Tell your provider if you are taking medications such as:

• Antacids containing magnesium or sodium bicarbonate
  
• Ciprofloxacin
  
• Delafloxacin
  
• Levofloxacin
  
• Moxifloxacin
  
• Probenecid
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Kidney disease
  
• Liver disease
  
• Lung disease
  
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  
• Anemia
  
• Diabetes
  
• Nerve damage
  
• Electrolyte imbalances
  
• B vitamin deficiency
  
• G6PD-deficiency
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using nitrofurantoin to assess potential risks and benefits.

Are there any other special instructions I should follow?

You can follow your regular diet while taking nitrofurantoin. Talk to your healthcare provider about the use of this drug with food, beverages, alcohol, and tobacco.

Your healthcare provider will tell you if you should avoid certain foods, beverages, or products while using nitrofurantoin. It is extremely important to follow their guidance, as certain drugs can interact with other substances in the body---leading to potentially severe reactions. If you have any questions about special instructions you should follow while taking this drug, talk to your healthcare provider before use.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

If an individual has collapsed, is having seizures, or is unresponsive, call 9-1-1 immediately.