The Best Guide to Uti Medications That Will Help You Choose Wisely

If you’ve ever experienced a urinary tract infection, then you know how painful it can be. The frequent bathroom trips, the burning feeling when you urinate, and the lower pelvic pressure, are all signs you need to see a doctor.

Although women have a 50 percent higher chance of contracting an infection, men aren’t exactly immune. Studies show that men over 50 are more likely to develop a urinary tract infection than their younger counterparts.

Regardless of whether you’re male or female, urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria like E. coli or staphylococcus. Occasionally, sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia or trichomonas can also influence bacteria growth that causes a UTI.

But the good news is that UTIs are easy to treat with a strong course of UTI medication like the ones listed below. And in a short amount of time, you’ll be back to feeling like yourself!

UTI MEDICATION PRICE COMPARISON

For your convenience we have linked to all prescription drug prices (shown below) within our database so you can quickly compare and find the lowest prices on most UTI medications.

WHAT IS A URINARY TRACT INFECTION?

A urinary tract infection is typically a non-threatening bacterial infection that occurs in the urinary tract. The urinary tract is made up of your kidneys, urethra, ureters, and the bladder, and work to filter and drain urine, fluid, waste, and toxins from your body.

Because all three systems coordinate their function together, when infections and bacterial growth invades one part of the urinary tract, everything gets out of balance. Within this delicate system, three sets of muscles also coordinate to control when it’s time to urinate. An infection in your kidneys is considered pyelonephritis; in your bladder is considered cystitis.

When the urethra, bladder, and bladder floor muscles are infected, painful urination is a sure sign that it’s time to see a doctor.

WHAT CAUSES A URINARY TRACT INFECTION?

Sexual activity is one of the most common causes of a urinary tract infection in women. Because of the way a woman’s body is designed, bacteria from feces can come in contact with the urinary tract. To lower your chances of contracting a UTI, doctors recommend women use the restroom before and after sexual activity.

Women in the later stages of menopause are also more susceptible to contracting a urinary tract infection. This is because yeast and bacteria levels change, allowing for greater chances of infecting the urethra.

Other influencing factors might be:

• Diabetes
• Spermicides
• Catheter use
• Constipation
• Enlarged prostate
• Uncircumcised men
• Extreme dehydration
• Holding in urine for too long
• Birth control medication changes

A common misconception is that uncleanliness causes a urinary tract infection, which simply isn’t true. However, wearing 100 percent cotton underwear is a good line of defense against preventing bacterial growth because of its breathability. Nylon or polyester materials are more likely to breed bacteria, so avoid whenever possible.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF A URINARY TRACT INFECTION

Although urinary tract infections are very common, sometimes the symptoms can be overlooked or confused with other conditions. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to call your doctor.

• Fatigue
• Back pain
• Cramping
• Muscle aches
• Blood in the urine
• Inability to urinate
• Burning and pain when urinating
• Pain in lower abdomen and pelvis
• Cloudy urine with a pungent smell
• Pink or brown urine (also a sign of blood in the urine)
• Frequent urge to urinate with a limited amount of urine

In addition to these symptoms, if you experience fever, chills, vomiting or if you’re pregnant and experiencing premature labor pains, get to the emergency room right away.

15 MOST COMMON TYPES OF UTI MEDICATION TO TRY

The most important quality in a UTI medication is the ability to destroy the bacteria that contributed to the infection in the first place. In more severe cases, it’s sometimes necessary to take several rounds of antibiotics to ensure the infection is gone. Among the most common are:

1. LEVAQUIN

This powerful antibiotic is used to obliterate the bacteria that develops as a result of a urinary tract infection.  Levaquin  is in the fluoroquinolones family of drug types and also is instrumental in the treatment of skin and lung infections. Available in liquid and pill form, Levaquin also comes in a generic form.

2. BACTRIM

Bactrim is a combination antibiotic used to stop the growth of a variety of bacterial infections. In addition to urinary tract infections,  Bactrim  is used to treat bronchitis and pneumonia.

Because of the risks, pregnant women are advised not to take this medication during their last trimester; individuals with liver or kidney disease are also advised to avoid Bactrim. Avoid sun exposure as Bactrim can increase your chances of a sunburn.

3. AUGMENTIN

Augmentin  is a strong antibiotic made up of  amoxicillin  and clavulanate. It works by destroying the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. It comes in a pill, chewable tablet and liquid. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common side effects, so take it with food.

4. CIPRO

Cipro-500mg  is an excellent prescription-only medication used in the treatment of urinary tract infections. Fluoroquinolone is strategic in combating bacteria and bacterial infections in the body.  Cipro  comes in many dosages, ranging from 100 to 750mg, so make sure you talk to your doctor about any drug interaction or side effects concerns.

5. KEFLEX

One of the most common prescription drugs available,  Keflex  is incredibly effective in treating bacterial infections. Because of its minimal side effects, it is a great choice for individuals with acid reflux or gastrointestinal disorders. One of the only downsides is the frequency of generic ( cephalexin ) pills that need to be taken several times a day.

6. TETRACYCLINE

Tetracycline is one of the least expensive antibiotics used to remedy UTIs. Because it is very effective, many types of infections benefit from this prescription only medication.  Tetracycline  is also a gentle option for patients who have kidney problems or are on dialysis.

7. MACROBID

Macrobid , also known by its generic name Nitrofurantoin, is a great option for women who are healthy and young. This prescription-only medication is used primarily to treat urinary tract infections, so children under 12 are advised to avoid this medication.

8. AMOXIL

Amoxil  is one of the most common antibiotic treatments to take for a urinary tract infection. It works by preventing bacteria growth from forming again in the urinary tract. Not only is it inexpensive, but it also has a relatively low amount of side effects, making it a great option for people who have sensitive stomachs or immune systems.

9. DOXYCYCLINE

For the individuals who have a sensitivity or are allergic to  penicillin ,  doxycycline  is an excellent alternative. It’s also gentle on the kidneys and safe for seniors over 65.

Although  doxycycline  is a great bacteria-busting medication, it can also compromise the effectiveness of some types of birth control. And wearing extra sunscreen is a must because sunburns are more frequent when exposed to the sun.

10. MACRODANTIN

Macrodantin  is a strong antibiotic that prevents bacteria in the body from returning. Available in both generic (nitrofurantoin or macrocrystalline) and name brand versions, Macrodantin should be taken by pregnant women up to 38 weeks only if it is highly medically necessary; otherwise, the risk to the unborn baby is too high.

11. AMPICILLIN

Ampicillin  is very beneficial as a UTI bacterial treatment because it has minimal side effects. Aside from having to take it on an empty stomach several times a day, this antibiotic is very effective at preventing bacteria from regrowth. Available in both pill and liquid form, it’s a great option for those who have trouble swallowing pills.

12. FLOXIN

Floxin  is a quinolone antibiotic that many urinary tract infection patients swear by. It attacks bacteria in the body and prevents future growth in not only the urinary tract, but also the lungs, skin, and prostate. Although it is a strong medication, Floxin is not used for viral infections.

13. UROMAX

Urinary tract infections often create uncomfortable spasms and cramping in the urinary tract.  Uromax  can help alleviate the painful side effects of UTIs with its combination pain reliever (salicylate) and antispasmodic drug (Hyoscyamine). It also helps calm the inflammation associated with the infection while helping prevent future infections.

14. HIPREX

Hiprex , or methanamine hippurate, works to control and eliminate bacteria in the body as a result of a urinary tract infection. Hiprex is often used as a second line of defense in the battle against returning bacteria strains.

Because this medication turns into formaldehyde once it’s in the system, it wipes out bacteria immediately. Your doctor might give you a urine PH test to see if this is the best treatment based on the acidity of your urine.

15. MANDELAMINE

If you’ve tried other antibiotics and haven’t had much luck with the outcome,  Mandelamine  is the ideal medication to try. This oral antibiotic works to remove the bacteria from your urinary tract by changing the acidity levels in your urine. In turn, this kills the bacteria and puts your system back in balance.

TIPS FOR DEALING WITH A URINARY TRACT INFECTION

Once you receive your prescription medication, it’s time for the healing process to begin. While you might not feel the effect of the antibacterial drugs taking effect right away, there are a few things you can do in the meantime to alleviate some of your symptoms.

Drink eight plus glasses of water a day to help flush out any potential bacteria in your body; use a heating pad for cramping or spasms; remember to avoid any caffeinated drinks or alcohol that might dehydrate you.