Question:
What is best antibiotic for urinary tract infection. Does it have to be liquid?

What antibiotic and what strength? I was given 500 mg cipro pills and tore me up. Then 250 cipro suspension did not cure it then another something that I took twice a day for 3 days. Still here. Drinking plenty of water. What now?    — Kathryn K. (posted on March 19, 2002)

March 19, 2002
You need to see urologist.
   — faybay

March 19, 2002
I'm six month post-op and just had my first UTI. I work at a hospital and had one of the doctors write me an Rx for Penicillin. Worked like a charm with no side effects. I hope you can find something that doesn't upset your stomach. Good luck!
   — Jennifer H.

March 19, 2002
Here's something I have experience with. I have been a Urology nurse for 12 years so let me pass on what WE do. First, after taking these meds are you sure that you are still infected. Have you had a CATH urine specimen. It really is the only accurate way to get a sample. Especially on large woman. Cipro is one of the best broad spectrum drugs out there for UTI's. It may have cleared the infection but not the symptoms such as frequency, burning and urgency. Levaquin is also a quinalone that you take 250mg or 500mg once a day for 3 days. Another great "older" med is macrodantin. You have to take it for a longer period of time but it's one the original meds for the urinary tract. Many times you will have the symptoms of an infection with out the infection. This is why it is SO important to have an accurate specimen. If you keep taking antibiotics when they are not needed you will only build up resistance to the very meds you may need at a later date. Also, for the burning and frequency there are prescription meds for that as well. Pyridium is great one if you don't mind orange urine. You can also buy this over the counter under the name "Azo Standard." If you do use it, remember to wear old panties as it is horrible about staining. Prosed and Urised are also great for this but you will need a script for these. Please confer with your doctor. I wish you well and I hope this helps.
   — Kelly H.