Common antibiotics for a UTI

A bladder infection and a kidney infection need different urgency and sometimes different treatment. A clinician may use a urine test to look for infection and select an antibiotic that is active against the suspected bacteria. Burning urine, frequent urination and lower abdominal discomfort can have causes other than infection, so antibiotics are not useful for every urinary symptom.

The antibiotic used for a UTI is not automatically suitable for Acute Bronchitis, Cellulitis or Conjunctivitis. Antibiotics also differ in whether they treat infections such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea or Helicobacter Pylori Infection.

Take the prescribed antibiotic exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it. Do not share leftover tablets or use another person’s supply. Ask about food, alcohol and interactions with your regular medicines. Drink fluids normally unless you have been told to restrict them, and seek advice if vomiting prevents you keeping doses down.

Diarrhoea, nausea, stomach discomfort or a rash can occur. A severe rash, facial swelling, wheezing or difficulty breathing may indicate a serious allergy and needs urgent help. Severe or persistent diarrhoea also warrants medical advice.

Seek urgent assessment for fever with shaking chills, pain in the back or side, confusion, faintness, repeated vomiting, or feeling suddenly very unwell. Contact a clinician if symptoms do not improve as expected, return soon after treatment, or occur during pregnancy. Children, men, older adults and people with kidney problems may need prompt review.

Ask whether a urine test is needed, where the infection may be located, when improvement should begin, what to do about a missed dose, and which side effects mean you should stop and seek help. Mention allergies, pregnancy and previous antibiotic reactions.