Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Nitrofurantoin as follows:
- Nitrofurantoin use tends to increase the blood sugar levels and can significantly increase the risk for hyperglycemia, especially in diabetics. Blood sugars must be closely watched in diabetic individuals taking Nitrofurantoin, with log maintenance of everyday blood sugars. Diabetic individuals taking Nitrofurantoin for prolonged period of time must be aware of symptoms of hyperglycemia, such as, trouble concentrating, frequent urination, headaches, weakness, and fatigue. Report these findings to your physician, so that, a change in plan of care could be considered.
- Nitrofurantoin needs acid medium in the stomach for better absorption. When used concurrently, antacids containing aluminum, magnesium, and bicarbonate, as ingredients, can compromise the acid medium in the stomach and reduce the absorption of Nitrofurantoin. This can compromise the therapeutic effects of the antibiotic. Space Nitrofurantoin out by at least 2 hours from these products to avoid this complication.
- Long-term Nitrofurantoin use can result in compromised lung function and episodes of extreme shortness of breath, cough, and chest pain, which must be immediately reported to the physician. Lung function could be periodically evaluated, if Nitrofurantoin is being taken on a long-term basis. Observe compliance with any labs and evaluations ordered for the same.
