Urinary Tract Infection
Commonly treated with Nitrofurantoin, Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim, Cephalexin & Fosfomycin
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection of the bladder, urethra, or kidneys that commonly causes burning with urination and a frequent urge to go. Most uncomplicated UTIs respond well to a short course of prescription antibiotics. After an online review by a licensed provider, treatment can be prescribed and shipped from our pharmacy if appropriate.
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Medically reviewed by David Paul Mackarey, RPh, Pharmacist-in-Charge — Last updated July 14, 2026
Choosing and Using Your Treatment
| Treatment | Choose this if… | How to Take |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrofurantoin 100mg (Mono/Macro) | A common first-line choice for uncomplicated bladder infections in adults with normal kidney function. | Take 1 capsule by mouth twice daily with food for 7 days. |
| Sulfa/TMP 800mg/160mg | A short first-line course for those without a sulfa allergy in areas where local resistance is low. | Take 1 tablet by mouth twice daily for 7 days. |
| Fosfomycin 3g | A convenient single-dose option for uncomplicated bladder infections in women. | Dissolve 1 packet in water and take by mouth as a single dose. |
| Cephalexin 500mg | An alternative for those who cannot take first-line options due to allergy or intolerance. | Take 1 capsule by mouth twice daily for 7 days. |
About Urinary Tract Infection (Bladder infection (cystitis))
A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria — most often E. coli from the digestive tract — enter the urinary system and multiply. Most UTIs involve the bladder and urethra (lower urinary tract) and are called cystitis. Women get UTIs more often than men because of a shorter urethra, but anyone can be affected. Typical symptoms include a burning sensation while urinating, needing to urinate frequently, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. Left untreated, a bladder infection can sometimes spread to the kidneys, which is more serious. Uncomplicated UTIs are usually treated with a short course of oral antibiotics, and symptoms often begin improving within a day or two of starting treatment.
Signs & symptoms
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Frequent, urgent need to urinate, often passing only small amounts
- Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine (pink or reddish color)
- Pressure, cramping, or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Feeling tired or generally unwell
- Fever, chills, or back/flank pain (possible kidney involvement)
Causes & risk factors
- Bacteria (usually E. coli) entering the urethra and bladder
- Sexual activity, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract
- Female anatomy — a shorter urethra makes infection easier
- Holding urine for long periods or incomplete bladder emptying
- Menopause-related changes in the urinary tract
- Urinary catheters or recent urinary procedures
- Kidney stones or other blockages in the urinary tract
Prevention
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Urinate when you feel the urge — don't hold it
- Urinate soon after sexual activity
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
- Avoid irritating feminine products like douches and sprays
- Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing
- Talk to a provider if you get frequent UTIs — preventive options exist
When to see a doctor
Online treatment is generally a good fit for adult women with typical, uncomplicated bladder infection symptoms such as burning with urination and urinary frequency. Seek in-person care if you have fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, back or side (flank) pain, blood in your urine, symptoms lasting more than a few days despite treatment, or if you are pregnant, male, have diabetes, kidney disease, a urinary catheter, or get UTIs frequently — these situations may need an exam, urine testing, or different treatment. Go to an emergency room right away for high fever with shaking chills, severe back pain, confusion, or inability to keep fluids down, as these can signal a kidney infection or a spreading infection.
Sources & References
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have a UTI?
Common signs include burning or pain when urinating, a frequent urge to urinate, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. In many cases a provider can diagnose an uncomplicated UTI based on typical symptoms, though a urine test may be recommended in some situations.
Can a UTI go away on its own?
Some mild bladder infections may resolve without antibiotics, but there is no reliable way to know which ones will. Untreated UTIs can worsen or spread to the kidneys, so most providers recommend antibiotic treatment when a UTI is diagnosed.
How quickly do UTI antibiotics work?
Most people begin to feel better within 24 to 48 hours of starting an appropriate antibiotic. It is important to finish the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve early, so the infection is fully treated.
Can I get UTI treatment online?
Yes, in many cases. A licensed provider can review your symptoms and health history online and, if appropriate, prescribe an antibiotic that our pharmacy can fill. Certain situations — such as fever, flank pain, pregnancy, or recurrent infections — may require in-person evaluation instead.
Does cranberry juice cure a UTI?
Cranberry products do not cure an active UTI. Some research suggests cranberry may modestly help prevent recurrent UTIs in certain people, but antibiotics remain the standard treatment for an active infection.
Why do I keep getting UTIs?
Recurrent UTIs can be related to anatomy, sexual activity, menopause, incomplete bladder emptying, or other health conditions. If you have two or more UTIs in six months or three or more in a year, talk with a provider about testing and preventive strategies.
What happens if a UTI spreads to the kidneys?
A kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is more serious and can cause fever, chills, nausea, and back or side pain. It usually requires prompt medical evaluation and a longer or different antibiotic course, and severe cases may need hospital care.
Treatments for Urinary Tract Infection
Find out more information about each treatment.