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Always Talk To Your Health Care Provider

Mayo Clinic Minute: Treating Urinary Tract Infections

It is very important that you see your health care provider if you have symptoms of a UTI. According to the CDC, anyone can get a UTI, but they are more common in women and girls. To confirm a UTI, your health care provider will ask about symptoms, perform a physical examination, and may order urine tests.

Though most infections are successfully treated outside of a hospital with antibiotics, a severe UTI may need more aggressive treatment in a hospital setting. Contact your health care provider at the first sign of a UTI.

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Jen Hadley is a freelance writer and journalist based in Los Angeles, who writes extensively about the medical, legal, health care, and consumer products industries. Jen is a regular contributor to RxSaver.

Carina Fung, PharmD, BCPPS

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Why Do Antibiotics Sometimes Not Work For A Urinary Tract Infection

If an antibiotic doesnt work it is likely that the bacteria causing the UTI is not susceptible or is resistant to the antibiotic you are taking.

Antibiotic resistance occurs when the bacteria that is causing the infection is no longer affected by a particular antibiotic and is able to continue to grow and multiply. Inappropriate and unnecessary antibiotic use contributes to the increasing problem of antibiotic resistance.

If you felt better for a little while and then came down with the symptoms of a UTI again, it is also possible that you have a new or recurrent UTI.

Another possibility if you continue to experience symptoms of a UTI despite antibiotic treatment, is that you have another type of infection that mimics that symptoms of a UTI and you need a different antibiotic or other treatment. Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, for example, produce symptoms that mimic a UTI. Vaginal yeast infections can also cause burning when you pee.

Otc Uti Treatment Options

UTIs are typically treated with a course of antibiotics that may run for a single day or a course of 7 days but usually lasts at an average of 1-3 days for uncomplicated urinary tract infections. However, some infections might not even need a course of antibiotics and may cease to exist. But, while treatment of UTIs without antibiotics may be a possible prospect in the future, for now, only a few equally effective OTC UTI treatments are available that can help a patient manage their symptoms. These include:

Hydration: Although not exactly an OTC UTI treatment method, hydration is still the key to treating a UTI quickly. If youve contracted a UTI, it is important to have fluids as frequently as possible so that you urinate more frequently and the harmful bacteria are flushed out of your urinary tract through natural means. This option means curing your symptoms without the use of medication.

  • Probiotics: Probiotics serve as an excellent OTC UTI treatment option that helps promote digestion and immunity in your body. Probiotics restore the good bacteria present in your gut and reduce the chances of reinfection.
  • Ascorbic Acid: Increasing your Vitamin C intake not only strengthens your immune system but is also a greater OTC UTI treatment option since it helps acidify the urine which may reduce the chance of reinfection.

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Why Do Women Get Utis More Often Than Men

Women are more susceptible to getting a UTI thanks to their anatomy. Their urethras are both closer to the rectum and shorter in length than mens urethras are theyre also near the vagina. In other words, womens bodies naturally present a convenient access point for the myriad bacteria that commonly cause UTIs.

Ranking The Best Antibiotics For Uti Of 2021

5 Home Remedies For Urinary Tract Infections

Antibiotics for UTI alleviate the pain and discomfort of urinary tract infections quickly and reliably.

Every year more than six million Americans visit their doctors seeking treatment of UTIs. The overwhelming majority are women, who are 30 times more likely to suffer UTIs than men.

In nearly all confirmed UTI cases, antibiotics are prescribed and start providing relief within 24 hours. Typically, within a few days, most or all symptoms have been eliminated.

There are more than 100 different antibiotics, but not all are useful in treating a UTI. The following are the best antibiotics for UTI of 2021. Speak to your doctor to determine which one is right for you.

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Are There Any Risk Factors For This Medication

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim should not be used in dogs with liver tissue damage, blood cell problems, dogs that are dehydrated or at an increased risk for urinary stones, or those allergic to sulfonamides. It should be used cautiously in Doberman Pinschers as they may be more susceptible to adverse side effects. It should be used with caution in pets with liver or kidney disease old, sick, or debilitated pet or pets with a folate deficiency. Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim should be used cautiously in pregnant and nursing pets, and should not be used in are near the end of their pregnancy.

How Are Most Utis Diagnosed

There are several ways that your physician can diagnose a UTI. To provide the best antibiotic treatment for UTI, he or she needs to determine the location of the infection and whether your UTI is complicated. He or she also needs to rule out other conditions that present similarly to UTI, such as vaginitis or certain sexually transmitted diseases.

Most UTIs are diagnosed via urine test. In some instances, your healthcare provider may also order blood cultures and a complete blood count. These test results will confirm the type of bacteria, virus or fungus thats causing the infection.

Bacteria is to blame for the vast majority of UTIs, and theyre treated using a wide range of antibiotics. In rarer cases, where a virus is behind the infection, antivirals such as cidofovir are prescribed. Fungal UTIs are treated with antifungals.

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The Status Of Phenazopyridine

In 1983, the FDA published a Drug Efficacy StudyImplementation notice with conditions for approval and marketingof all phenazopyridine products.7 These includedsulfameth-oxazole/phenazopyridine combinations ,similar combination products, and single-entity phenazopyridineproducts. The FDA presented newlyrequired statements for all phenazopyridine products intended to relievesymptoms associated with a UTI. One of the statements was critical indetermining the length of dosing: Treatment of a urinary tractinfection with phenazopyridine HCl or a combination drug productcontaining phenazopyridine HCl should not exceed 2 days because there isa lack of evidence that the combined administration of phenazopyridineHCl and an antibacterial provides greater benefit than administration ofthe anti-bacterial alone after 2 days.7

The FDA also required the following carcinogenicitystatement on all phenazopyridine labels: Long-term administration ofphenazopyridine hydrochloride has induced neoplasia in rats and mice . Although no association betweenphenazopyridine hydrochloride and human neoplasia has been reported,adequate epidemiological studies along these lines have not beenconducted.7

The best known phenazopyridine nonprescription product is Azo Standard.9Azo Standard contains 95 mg of phenazopyridine per tablet and AzoStandard Maximum Strength contains 97.5 mg of phenazopyridine.10 The dosage of both is 2 tablets 3 times daily with or after meals as needed.

Other Over The Counter Products For Uti Prevention

UTI l Urinary Tract Infection & Pyelonephritis Treatment for NCLEX RN & LPN

Some OTC products do not directly affect the progress of an acute infection, but could help to prevent UTIs in the future:

However, it is crucial to address the reason you had a UTI happened in the first place.

There are multiple factors that can make you more prone to UTIs, such as certain contraceptive methods , diseases that affect vaginal health etc.

Therefore, a holistic approach to UTI prevention is more effective than just treating an acute infection.

Whats your favorite OTC UTI remedy that worked for you?

Written by Anastasia Visotsky, medically reviewed by Dr. Ogunyemi

Anastasia Visotsky

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What Happens When A Uti Goes Untreated

Thanks to early diagnosis and proper treatment, the vast majority of lower urinary tract infections result in no complications. However, if left untreated, a UTI can have serious ramifications notes the Mayo Clinic, including:

  • Recurrent UTIs
  • Premature birth and low birth weight
  • Kidney damage, which can occur is an untreated UTI spreads from the bladder to the kidneys.

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Goldenseal / Oregon Grape

Goldenseal is one of the 5 best-selling herbal products in the United States.

Goldenseal is a potent natural antibiotic, which like Cranberries contains the active ingredient that prevents bacteria from adhering to your cell walls.

Goldenseal tastes awful, so I would recommend you to take it in capsule form or extract formso you can mix it with water.

Important: Goldenseal, like its good friend Echinacea, cannot be taken for more than 2 weeks.

This means that Goldenseal is best for acute UTIs, but not for prevention since you cant take it for more than 2 weeks.

Warning:

If you take any medication, consult with your doctor about possible counter interactions. Avoid if you are pregnant or nursing.

Recommended Herb Pharm Goldenseal Extract

On the other hand, using Oregon Grape is not limited to 2 weeks.

Oregon Grape can be taken via capsules, tablets, liquid tinctures or you can just make tea from it.

Also Check: How Do Bladder Infections Happen

Interactions Between Bactrim And Other Medications

Bactrim may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Bactrim . Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

  • Levomethadyl
  • Methenamine

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

  • Acecainide
  • Zofenopril
  • Zotepine

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

  • Acetohexamide

What Natural Supplements Can I Take To Prevent Another Uti

Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

There is little evidence that natural supplements can prevent UTIs, but you can try cranberry supplements or probiotics. Cranberries contain antioxidants that may help prevent bacteria in the urinary tract from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. Drinking 10 to 30 oz of cranberry juice per day may be beneficial. Probiotics may help prevent UTIs by supporting the bodys natural microorganisms in the flora.

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What Should I Do If My Antibiotic Doesnt Work For My Urinary Tract Infection

If your symptoms dont improve within a couple of days or get worse after starting an antibiotic you should contact your healthcare provider. A different antibiotic, a longer course of antibiotics or another treatment may be required. A physical exam or urine sample may be required.

When you have a UTI its important to:

  • Only take an antibiotic that has been prescribed for you
  • Take the antibiotic exactly as instructed by your healthcare provider and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better
  • Drink plenty of water and other fluids
  • Urinate or pee regularly

How Is A Uti Diagnosed

Urinary tract infections are very commonly self-diagnosed , though sometimes a urinalysis is necessary. Collecting a urine sample or urine culture could help doctors determine what type of bacteria is in the urine. After that, an appropriate antibiotic can be prescribed.

People who experience recurring UTIs may recognize the characteristic symptoms of a UTI: pain while urinating, blood in the urine, a frequent need to urinate, flu-like symptoms, and pain or pressure in the lower abdomen.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , women experience more UTIs than men do. This is because women have a shorter urethra than men and because their urethra is closer to the rectum. These factors increase the likelihood of bacteria reaching the urinary system. People with weakened immune systems such as the elderly are at a higher risk of getting UTIs. Children are prone to becoming infected as well, especially while potty training.

UTIs can fall into one of two categories: lower or upper tract infections. Lower tract infections include urethritis and cystitis . If lower tract infections are left untreated, this can lead to an upper tract infection where bacteria reach the ureters and kidneys. Kidney infections can be very painful and are especially dangerous for pregnant women.

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Do You Need To See A Doctor To Get Antibiotics For A Uti

You need to speak with your doctor or a licensed medical professional to be prescribed antibiotics for a UTI. This can usually be done in person, at the doctor, or over the phone.

If this is your first UTI or your symptoms are severe, it may be helpful to get treated in person. You may also want to consider an in-person visit with your healthcare professional to rule out sexually transmitted infections if you are sexually active or have multiple sexual partners.

Related Resources For Utis

Urinary Tract Infection Nursing NCLEX | UTI Symptoms Treatment Cystitis, Pyelonephritis, Urethritis

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This article is not medical advice. It is intended for general informational purposes and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or dial 911.

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What Causes Urinary Tract Infections

The Escherichia coli bacteria causes most UTIs .

But heres a surprise:

E. coli is normally found in your intestinal tract.

Sometimes E. coli is accidentally transferred to the bladder through lapses in optimal hygiene.

When normal E. coli gets into your urinary tract and multiplies, you experience the usual signs and symptoms of a UTI.

But if its in your urine, why doesnt the body just flush it out when you urinate?

Because the cell walls of each E. coli are covered with tiny fingerlike projections called fimbria3 allowing them to stick to the inner walls of your bladder and even work their way upward to your urethra and kidneys.

Thats why:

The ultimate way to clear a bladder infection is to PREVENT the little buggers from sticking to your bladder walls.

Antibiotics Used For Uncomplicated Utis

If you are a healthy individual whose urinary tract is anatomically and functionally normal and you have no known heightened UTI susceptibility youve got whats dubbed an uncomplicated UTI, according to guidelines published in August 2019 in the Journal of Urology. For these individuals, antibiotics are considered the first-line of treatment.

The type of antibiotics you are prescribed and for how long is contingent on the type of bacteria detected in your urine, your current health status, and whether your UTI is uncomplicated or complicated. Depending on which antibiotic your doctor prescribes, women may need a single dose or up to a five-day course. For men, antibiotics are usually given for a slightly longer period of time, notes UpToDate.

Typically, if you are diagnosed with an uncomplicated UTI, one of the following will be prescribed as first-line treatment:

The following antibiotics are considered second-line treatments for UTI. They are generally chosen because of resistance patterns or allergy considerations:

RELATED: The Connection Between E. Coli and UTIs

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Can Uti Symptoms Linger After I Take Antibiotics

Since UTI symptoms usually improve just a few days after starting antibiotics, youll want to talk to your healthcare provider if you notice that UTI symptoms are still hanging around after finishing your antibiotics.

Theres no need to panic, but you and your healthcare provider will want to make sure the antibiotics actually worked against your UTI. To do this, they may take another sample of your urine to see if the bacteria are still there or not. If the infection is cured, youll want to be sure there isnt a different issue thats causing similar symptoms.

Editorial Sources And Fact

Learn How To Manage Your UTI Symptoms Until Seeing A Doctor
  • R Orenstein R, Wong ES. Urinary Tract Infections in Adults. American Family Physician. March 1999.
  • Anger J, Lee U, Ackerman AL, et al. Recurrent Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections in Women: AUA/CUA/SUFU Guideline. The Journal of Urology. August 2019.
  • Patient Education: Urinary Tract Infections in Adolescents and Adults . UpToDate. January 2020.
  • Huttner A, Kowalczyk A, Turjeman A, et al. Effect of 5-Day Nitrofurantoin vs Single-Dose Fosfomycin on Clinical Resolution of Uncomplicated Lower Urinary Tract Infection in Women a Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of the American Medical Association. May 2018.
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    Nonprescription Products For Utis

    When you have a UTI, it is vital to make a doctorsappointment. You should never try to treat it on your own with homeremedies or nonprescription products. Some women purchase OTC productswithout medical advice, such as those containing phenazopyridine . Purchasers may believe that this ingredient alone cancure the UTI. This is a common misconception, as the product may provideonly temporary relief of symptoms .

    After obtaining this relief, a woman may decide that theUTI is gone and that she does not need to see her physician after all.This is a mistake. Phenazopyridine does not act to kill bacteria, so anyrelief obtained is probably short-lived. The label warns against usingthe product for more than 2 days, and advises seeing a physician ifsymptoms last more than 2 days. Of course, the safest course of actionis to see a physician first, and ask whether this product should be usedalong with the antibiotic/antibacterial prescription product. Further,no herbal product or dietary supplement is proven safe or effective forpreventing or treating a UTI.

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