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Macrobid

Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin): How It Works, How to Take It, and Side Effects

This antibiotic helps treat and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Lauren Smith, MAChristina Aungst, PharmD
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Christina Aungst, PharmD
Updated on April 9, 2025
Featuring Alyssa Billingsley, PharmDReviewed by Christina Aungst, PharmD | April 4, 2025

Macrobid (nitrofurantoin) is a type of medication called a nitrofuran antibiotic. It helps treat UTIs, or urinary tract infections. These medications work by collecting in your urine and then damaging the proteins that the bacteria need to survive, which kills the bacteria.

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Lauren Smith, MA
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MA
Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Christina Aungst, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She began writing for GoodRx Health in 2019, transitioning from freelance writer to editor in 2021.

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