Learn what you need to know about common infections


Learn what you need to do about common infections.
 

 
 

 

Bladder Infection Treatment

Most bladder infections will be cured without complication after treatment, so it's important to be treated as soon as possible. Antibiotics are most commonly used to treat community-acquired bladder infections, and the course of treatment can vary depending on overall health and bacteria found in the urine. It is important to know that whatever the treatment, it must be taken exactly as directed for maximum effectiveness.

Some commonly used antibiotic treatments include:

  • Nitrofurantoin
  • Sulfa drugs (sulfonamides) such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim)
  • Amoxicillin
  • Cephalosporins
  • Ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin
  • Doxycycline

Pyridium, a prescription medication, may also be suggested to reduce the burning and urgency associated with bladder infection. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) or cranberry juice may be recommended to decrease the amount of bacteria in the urine.

Different types of antibiotics and treatment approaches may be needed for hospital-acquired infections because bacteria found in hospitals are often resistant to the common types of antibiotics used to treat community-acquired bladder infections. Researchers are currently testing vaccines and catheters pre-treated with antimicrobial products to solve this problem.