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Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common examples of urologic diseases that affect the urinary tract. If left untreated, a UTI can spread from the bladder to the kidneys. This guide gives an overview of UTI treatments and medications that a doctor may prescribe or recommend.
What is a UTI?
A UTI is caused by bacteria entering the urethra and infecting the urinary tract. A UTI can affect different parts of the urinary system such as the kidneys, urethra, bladder, or ureters. Over 150 million people experience UTIs globally and the United States sees over 3 million cases every year.
The bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) is well known for being the most common cause of UTIs. This bacteria lives in the gut but can easily make its way into the urinary tract system. Examples of how this might happen include wiping back to front after urination, wearing pants that are too tight, or by not urinating after sexual intercourse. UTIs can also be caused by viruses, fungi, certain medical conditions, or abnormalities of the urinary tract.
Once bacteria have infected a part of the urinary system, symptoms could manifest as a burning sensation during urination, pelvic pain, nausea and vomiting, fever and chills, or bloody urine. Most urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics, though some people rely on natural and home remedies to relieve their symptoms.
How is a UTI diagnosed?
Urinary tract infections are very commonly self-diagnosed (and therefore self-treated), 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 (CDC), 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 (an infection of the urethra) and cystitis (a bladder infection). If lower tract infections are left untreated, this can lead to an upper tract infection where bacteria reach the ureters and kidneys. Kidney infections (pyelonephritis) can be very painful and are especially dangerous for pregnant women.
A primary care practitioner can diagnose and treat UTIs, or refer you to an OBGYN. If you have recurring UTIs, you may be referred to a urologist (a specialist in urology). A doctor may ask the following questions to help confirm a diagnosis:
- When did your symptoms first start happening?
- Are you sexually active? Have you had a new sexual partner recently?
- Are your symptoms relieved by urinating?
- Have you had UTIs in the past?
- Are you currently taking any medications?
UTI treatment options
Urinary tract infections are commonly treated with a course of antibiotics. A primary care physician, OBGYN doctor, or urologist can prescribe the right antibiotic for each individual. Some people may rely on home remedies or natural treatment options such as taking probiotics, drinking cranberry juice, or taking vitamin C to treat their UTIs.
Many people who have one UTI often experience recurrent urinary tract infections. It’s estimated that 25% of women who have one UTI will have another within a year of the first infection. Postmenopausal women are especially at risk of having recurring UTIs.
It can be very helpful for people who get recurrent UTIs to learn how to reduce their chances of becoming infected again. Here are some preventative measures that may help keep bacteria out of the urinary tract:
- Urinating before and after sexual activity.
- Wiping from front to back after urination.
- Switching to a birth control method that isn’t a spermicide.
- Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting pants.
- Drinking lots of water.
UTI medications
UTIs are treated with a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics come in capsules, tablets, as a liquid, and can sometimes be given intravenously. A healthcare professional can determine the proper dosage and form of medication on a case-by-case basis.
Antibiotics work by killing bacterial infections within the body. There are many different types of antibiotics available to treat UTIs. Popular brand names of antibiotics include Amoxicillin, Cipro, Keflex, Levaquin, and Macrobid (nitrofurantoin). Most antibiotics are taken orally in the form of a tablet, capsule, or liquid.
Other antibiotics commonly used to treat UTIs are Monurol (fosfomycin), Rocephin (ceftriaxone), and Septra or Bactrim (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole).
There is also a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones, examples of which are Cipro (ciprofloxacin) and Levaquin (levofloxacin). This class of antibiotics has been associated with serious side effects such as peripheral neuropathy and tendonitis, or tendon rupture.
Side effects from antibiotics normally aren’t this serious, but can still cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, skin sensitivity to sunlight, or allergic reactions. The number of days that someone will take antibiotics to treat a UTI will vary. It’s very important to take the entire prescribed dose of any antibiotic, even if you start to feel better. Stopping a course of antibiotics early might not kill all of the bacteria, which could cause antibiotic resistance.
Some people who suffer from recurring UTIs may benefit from antibiotic prophylaxis, which is a treatment option where antibiotics are given to prevent an infection rather than treat one. The same drugs that are used to treat UTIs can also be used for prophylaxis, though doses will vary.
What is the best medication for a UTI?
There is no one universal UTI medication that’s best for everyone. Individual symptoms and responses to treatment vary. A doctor can determine the best medication for a UTI based on an individual’s symptoms, medical history, and response to treatments. Here’s an overview of popular UTI medications that a doctor may prescribe.
| Best medications for UTI | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drug name | Drug class | Administration route | Standard dosage | Most common side effects |
| Amoxicillin | Antibiotic | Oral | 500 mg taken every 8 hours or 875 mg taken every 12 hours for 5 days | Diarrhea, allergic reaction, or skin rash |
| Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim) | Antibiotic | Oral | 400 - 80 mg tablet taken with a full glass of water every 12 hours for 3-14 days, depending on clinical presentation | Allergic reaction, skin rash, or confusion |
| Cipro (ciprofloxacin) | Antibiotic | Oral or intravenous | 250 mg taken every 12 hours for 3 days | Allergic reaction, sensitivity to sunlight, changes in urination, or tendon rupture |
| Keflex (cephalexin) | Antibiotic | Oral | 500 mg capsule every 6-12 hours | Diarrhea, stomach pain, or allergic reaction |
| Levaquin (levofloxacin) | Antibiotic | Oral | Newest guidelines recommend 250 mg once daily for 3 days | Seizures, sensitivity to sunlight, chest pain, allergic reaction, or tendon rupture |
| Macrobid (nitrofurantoin) | Antibiotic | Oral | 100 mg capsule taken with food twice a day, 12 hours apart | Nausea, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or allergic reaction |
A doctor determines the best dosage based on medical conditions, response to treatment, age, and weight. Other possible side effects exist. This is not a complete list.
What are some common side effects of UTI medicine?
As with any medication, there are always potential side effects. Common side effects associated with UTI medications include sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, changes in urination, seizures, confusion, uneven heartbeat, and diarrhea or stomach problems. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if your side effects persist or worsen.
UTI medications may also cause allergic reactions that result in hives or difficulty breathing. Allergic reactions can be life-threatening. You should seek immediate medical care if you believe you are experiencing an allergic reaction.
This list of side effects is not comprehensive. Ask a healthcare professional for more details regarding the possible side effects of a particular medication.
How can I treat a UTI at home naturally?
Many people rely on home remedies and natural treatments to alleviate their UTI symptoms. Certain lifestyle changes may help prevent UTIs from worsening or recurring. Home remedies, natural treatment options, and lifestyle changes are all ways that people who have UTIs can try to reduce their symptoms. Many natural supplements are not approved by the FDA. Here are some popular home and natural remedies for UTIs:
- Drinking lots of water. The bacteria that cause a urinary tract infection needs to be flushed out of the body. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps flush the bacteria out. Eating fruits and vegetables with high water content can be a great way to increase the amount of fluid being consumed.
- Drinking cranberry juice. When bacteria attach to cell walls in the urinary tract, this leads to infection. Cranberry juice may help prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract. One study listed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information says that cranberry juice has been shown to reduce the number of UTIs a person can develop over 12 months. Cranberry juice as a treatment for UTIs is highly debated. It’s up to each individual to determine whether or not cranberry juice has a place in the treatment of their UTI.
- Taking vitamin C. Vitamin C is well known for its ability to enhance the immune system. It has also been shown to kill the bacteria E. coli, which causes UTIs. To learn more about vitamin C, see this article by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
- Urinating as often as possible. Urinating as frequently as the need arises helps flush bacteria out of the bladder. Bacteria can grow in urine that’s stored in the bladder if held for too long, which can make a UTI worse. Urinating after sexual intercourse is also important because it helps clear the urethra of any bacteria that may have accumulated.
- Using heat to relieve pain. Having a UTI might cause pain and cramping near the bladder or where urination occurs. Gentle heat applied to spasming or inflamed muscles can help the muscles relax. Filling a hot water bottle with warm water and placing it over the bladder may help relieve pain.
Frequently asked questions about UTIs
How long does a UTI last?
The amount of time a urinary tract infection lasts will depend on the individual and type of treatment. Everyone is different, and doctors may recommend different treatment options based on individual symptoms. With antibiotic treatment, many people start to feel relief within a couple of days.
Is there a permanent cure for UTIs?
While there is no permanent cure for UTIs, there are ways to decrease the likelihood of them recurring. Drinking lots of water, drinking cranberry juice, urinating before and after sexual activity, and wiping front to back after urination (for women) are all good practices.
Can a UTI go away on its own?
Urinary tract infections can sometimes go away on their own. Some people might choose natural or home remedies to treat their UTIs, while others will choose to take antibiotics. If a UTI isn’t treated, the infection can reach other parts of the body such as the kidneys. Talking with a primary care physician can help someone determine the best way to treat their UTI.
What is the most effective antibiotic for UTIs?
Commonly prescribed antibiotics for UTIs include, but are not limited to:
- Amoxicillin
- Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim)
- Cipro (ciprofloxacin)
- Keflex (cephalexin)
- Levaquin (levofloxacin)
- Macrobid (nitrofurantoin)
There is no one single antibiotic that’s most effective at treating UTIs. A doctor will determine the best antibiotic for each person based on symptoms, response to medications, and individual patient history.
Is Cipro good for UTIs?
Cipro (ciprofloxacin) is one of many antibiotics that can be used to treat urinary tract infections. Every medication has both benefits and potential side effects. Cipro has been used to successfully treat UTIs, but it is also associated with some serious risk factors. Side effects may include swelling or tearing of tendons, mood changes, or seizures. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional to determine if Cipro is a good choice of antibiotic for you.
Is Tramadol good for UTI pain?
Tramadol is a pain killer that works to alleviate moderate to severe pain. It is a type of painkiller that falls into the category of narcotic analgesics. These types of painkillers are effective but have been known to be highly addictive. Talking with a primary care physician or other healthcare provider is the best way to determine if taking tramadol is the right choice for you.
A non-narcotic analgesic that may be a good option for some people is phenazopyridine. It is used for urinary tract infections and helps treat symptoms such as burning and pain while urinating. Phenazopyridine can be purchased over-the-counter and is also prescribed by doctors. Popular brand names of phenazopyridine include Pyridium, Urinary Pain Relief, AZO Urinary Pain Relief, and AZO Standard Maximum Strength.
Related resources for UTIs
- All about UTIs from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Harvard Health Publishing on UTIs in men
- The role of cranberries in preventing UTIs
- Managing recurring UTIs
- The National Institutes of Health on vitamin-c
- New treatments for UTIs?
- Antibiotic resistance in UTI outpatients
- Escherichia coli and UTIs
- The New York Times on UTIs
- Having one UTI may increase your risk of further infection
- Bridging the gap between UTIs and antibiotic resistance
- An overview of UTIs by womenshealth.gov