Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment

Study Notes

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Definition

A UTI is an infection that occurs in the urinary system, affecting the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra.

Symptoms

Frequent urination
Pain or burning sensation during urination
Pain in the lower abdomen or back
Blood in the urine
Strong-smelling urine
Fever
Nausea and vomiting

Treatment

Antibiotics

Used to treat UTIs, antibiotics can be categorized into several classes:

Sulfonamides

Examples: sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)
Mechanism: inhibits bacterial synthesis of folic acid
Adverse reactions: allergic reactions, gastrointestinal disturbances, kidney damage

Cephalosporins

Examples: cephalexin (Keflex), cefaclor (Ceclor)
Mechanism: inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis
Adverse reactions: allergic reactions, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

Trimethoprim

Examples: trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)
Mechanism: inhibits bacterial synthesis of folic acid
Adverse reactions: allergic reactions, gastrointestinal disturbances, kidney damage

Fluoroquinolones

Examples: ciprofloxacin (Cipro), levofloxacin (Levaquin)
Mechanism: inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase
Adverse reactions: tendon rupture, muscle weakness, gastrointestinal disturbances

Macrolides

Examples: erythromycin, azithromycin (Zithromax)
Mechanism: inhibits bacterial protein synthesis
Adverse reactions: gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, hearing loss

Adverse Reactions

Allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing)
Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
Kidney damage
Tendon rupture
Muscle weakness
Hearing loss

Note: It is essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.

Description

Learn about the different types of antibiotics used to treat Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), including their mechanisms, examples, and potential adverse reactions. Understand the importance of completing the full course of medication.