What is Monurol Uses, warnings & interactions
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Get started todayMonurol (fosfomycin) is an antibiotic that is manufactured by Allergan, Inc. It was approved in 1996 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria that causes bladder infections in women.
If your doctor has prescribed Monurol to you, you may want to know more about what it is and how it works. Here we’ll explain what Monurol is used for, how it works, its side effects, and more.
What is Monurol used for?
Monurol is indicated to treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections such as acute cystitis in women due to susceptible strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis). Monurol is not approved to treat a type of kidney infection called pyelonephritis.
How does Monurol work?
Monurol is thought to work by inhibiting an enzyme in certain types of bacteria that is necessary for cell wall synthesis. Without this protective covering, the susceptible bacteria die.
What are the most commonly prescribed doses of Monurol?
- Single-dose sachet containing the equivalent of 3 grams of fosfomycin.
Before taking Monurol
Before taking Monurol, tell your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, including:
- Hepatitis or liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or are breastfeeding
How to take Monurol
- Read the Drug Information and Medication Guide that comes with Monurol.
- Take this medication exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes it.
- Monurol is given as a single dose with or without food.
- You should empty the contents of the Monurol sachet into 3 or 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of cold water. Do not use hot water. Stir to dissolve the powder and then drink all of it immediately.
- Your symptoms should improve within 2 to 3 days after taking this medication. Notify your healthcare provider if you are still having symptoms on the fourth day.
- Store Monurol at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C) away from heat and moisture. Monurol should be kept in its original package until you are ready to mix your dose. Keep Monurol and all medicines out of the reach of children.
Monurol contraindications
You should not use Monurol if you have an allergy to fosfomycin or any inactive ingredients such as sucrose in this product.
Monurol warnings
- Like all antibiotics, Monurol can cause Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea that can range from mild cases to fatal colitis. Notify your doctor if have new or worsening diarrhea.
What drugs should not be taken with Monurol?
When Monurol is taken with other medications, it may change how they work or increase the frequency and severity of side effects. You should ask your doctor if any of the prescription drugs, over-the-counter and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take may cause drug interactions with Monurol, including:
- Metoclopramide
- Bethanechol
What are some possible side effects of Monurol?
The most common side effects of Monurol include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vaginal itching
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Back pain
Monurol can sometimes cause more serious side effects, including:
- Serious, life-threatening allergic reactions (hives, swelling of the face or throat, and shortness of breath)
- Liver injury
- Severe diarrhea caused by a bacteria called C. difficile
Contact your healthcare professional for medical advice about any possible adverse effects you experience while taking Monurol. You can report your adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Monurol alternatives
Your doctor can prescribe other medications if Monurol is not right for you. Some alternative FDA-approved treatment options include:
- Macrobid (nitrofurantoin monohydrate/macrocrystals)
- Macrodantin (nitrofurantoin macrocrystals)
- Bactrim DS (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole)
- Keflex (cephalexin)
- Cipro (ciprofloxacin)
- Levaquin (levofloxacin)
Monurol FAQs
Can you take Monurol while you are pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies on the use of Monurol in pregnant women. It is recommended that this medication be used only if it is clearly needed. Limited data show that low levels of Monurol are found in breast milk. Monurol use is generally not recommended if you are breastfeeding. You should always discuss the risks and benefits of any medication with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Should you drink a lot of water with Monurol?
Drinking plenty of water when you have a UTI and taking Monurol will make you pass more urine. This can help keep your bladder working properly and prevent complications.
How effective is Monurol?
According to the manufacturer, clinical studies showed that almost 75% of patients were cured of their uncomplicated urinary tract infection after a single dose of Monurol.
How long does Monurol stay in your system?
You only take 1 dose of Monurol but it is designed to stay in your bladder for several days to kill the bacteria causing your infection.
How long does it take Monurol to work?
You should notice a significant improvement in symptoms within 2 to 3 days of taking Monurol. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen after 3 days, contact your doctor right away.
How much does Monurol cost?
Currently, there is a generic Monurol available on the market. The average cost of 1 packet of generic Monurol 3g is around $115. However, you can save on brand-name drugs like Monurol through NiceRx if eligible for assistance.