Urinary anti-infectives

Definition

Urinary anti-infectives are medications specifically used to treat and prevent infections in the urinary tract. They work by eliminating or inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Common urinary anti-infectives include nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim, and sulfamethoxazole.
2. These drugs are often chosen based on the sensitivity of the bacteria causing the infection.
3. Urinary anti-infectives can be bactericidal or bacteriostatic depending on their mechanism of action.
4. Side effects may include gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, and, rarely, more severe conditions like liver toxicity.
5. Patients with renal impairment may require dosage adjustments to avoid toxicity.

Review Questions

• What are common examples of urinary anti-infectives?
• How do urinary anti-infectives work to treat UTIs?
• What are some potential side effects of using urinary anti-infectives?

Related terms

Bactericidal: Drugs that kill bacteria directly.

Bacteriostatic: Drugs that inhibit bacterial growth but do not kill them.

Renal Impairment: A condition where the kidneys are not functioning properly, which can affect drug dosing.