UTI Treatments
Submitted by Thiruvelan on Thu, 06/24/2010 - 08:39
UTI are more often treated with antibacterial medications. The type of medication and treatment duration depends on the type of bacterial.
Medications for UTI
Bladder infections, kidney infections, and other urinary tract infections are most commonly treated with antibacterial medications. The type of medication used and the treatment duration depend on the type of bacteria.
Most UTIs are treated with
- trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim®, Cotrim®, Septra®),
- amoxicillin (e.g., Amoxil®, Trimox®), or
- fluoroquinolones (e.g., Levaquin®, Cipro®).
The infection symptom may start disappearing within a couple of days, but 1 to 2 weeks of medication is prescribed to prevent any kidney infection.
UTIs caused by the bacteria such as chlamydia trachomatis and mycoplasma hominis require a longer treatment duration with
- tetracycline (e.g., Achromycin®),
- trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, or doxycycline (e.g., Periostat®).
Kidney infections may require hospitalization and may even need a 6 weeks of antibiotic treatment to prevent any serious kidney damage.
Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., Tylenol®, Advil®) and a heating pad may be used to relieve discomfort caused by UTI. Drinking plenty of water helps to cleanse bacteria out of the urinary tract. Coffee, alcohol, and smoking should be avoided.
Next: UTI Prevention
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