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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Nitrofurantoin Advisable In An Elderly Patient Suffering From Heart Failure?

this medication(Nitrofurantn) was prescribed for my 97 yr.old mother. Medicare subsequently issued a letter to her stating this drug is powerful and was not recommended for elderly patients because of serious side effects. We feel this doctor did not practice due diligence and should have given an alternative since there are many from which to choose. would you prescribe this to an elderly patient who suffers from CHF?
Wed, 15 Apr 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi
Thanks for posting your query on HCM.
I appreciate your concern for your father towards the safety of Nitrofurantoin.

Nitrofurantoin is an urinary antiseptic used to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection, its prolonged use is associated with a potential lung toxicity which may result in lung damage (fibrosis).

It is because of this potential toxicity Nitrofurantoin should not be used in elderly patients particularly suffering from heart failure.

In order to prevent the recurrent urinary tract infection other alternative drugs like Flouroquinolone antibiotic can be thought of.

Hope this answers your query.
regards
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Is Nitrofurantoin Advisable In An Elderly Patient Suffering From Heart Failure?

Hi Thanks for posting your query on HCM. I appreciate your concern for your father towards the safety of Nitrofurantoin. Nitrofurantoin is an urinary antiseptic used to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection, its prolonged use is associated with a potential lung toxicity which may result in lung damage (fibrosis). It is because of this potential toxicity Nitrofurantoin should not be used in elderly patients particularly suffering from heart failure. In order to prevent the recurrent urinary tract infection other alternative drugs like Flouroquinolone antibiotic can be thought of. Hope this answers your query. regards