Monurol

The active ingredient in Monurol is fosfomycin tromethamine. It is a urinary antibiotic that treats bacterial infections through inactivating an enzyme required for bacterial wall synthesis. This kills germs by preventing them from forming their protective covering and decreases the spread of the infectious disease. It is used to treat a broad range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (E. coli, Proteus, Klebsiellae, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, etc.).

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Monurol. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Monurol:

• Only one dose of this medication is required to treat your UTI. The medication will continue to treat the infection due to its long half-life and high bioavailability.
• You can take this medication with or without food.
• The drug is a flavored granule sachet that needs to be combined with water before use. Never take the drug in dry form.

To Use:

• Open the packet and combine all of the powder with 3 or 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of water. Don't use hot water.
• Stir until the powder is dissolved, then drink the fluid immediately.
• Drink plenty of water so you can pass more pee while taking this medication. This will maintain your bladder functioning properly and help prevent bladder troubles.

The most common side effects of Monurol seen in clinical trials include:

• Vaginal inflammation (pain, redness or swelling).
• Diarrhea.
• Nausea.
• Headaches.
• Dizziness.
• Lack of energy or fatigue.
• Upset stomach (dyspepsia).
• Back pain.
• Abdominal pain.
• Metallic taste.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Monurol. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic symptoms including hives, rashes, blisters, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, and difficulty breathing.
• Infectious diarrhea (C. difficile-related diarrhea), characterized by foul-smelling diarrhea, fever, nausea, and frequent bowel movements (up to 15 per day).

-Reye's syndrome, which is a potentially fatal illness that is caused by exposure to these medications and results in life-threatening liver failure and subsequent brain swelling.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Monurol. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Monurol, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Diarrhea. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea has been reported with the use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including fosfomycin trometamol, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis.
• Renal insufficiency.
• Perinephric abscess.
• Any allergies to medications, foods, sucrose, colors, preservatives, or animals.

Monurol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Your UTI symptoms should improve after 2 to 3 days of starting fosfomycin (Monurol). If your symptoms do not improve by the fourth day, contact your healthcare practitioner. You may need more tests to determine which bacteria are causing your infection and whether you require therapy with a different antibiotic.

Elevated bactericidal concentrations are rapidly attained (in 2-4 hours) and remain for at least 36-48 hours after administration.

When Monurol is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the incidence or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Cholera vaccine, live.
• Methotrexate.
• Phosphate supplements.
• Metoclopramide.

The typical oral dose is 3 grams (1 sachet or packet) combined with half a cup of water and taken orally once.

The safety and efficacy have not been established for pediatric patients under 12 years of age.

Store Monurol at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Allergan Inc. is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Monurol.

There are several lower-cost generic versions of Monurol available.

There is no specific way to stop taking Monurol. However, speak to your doctor before suddenly stopping the medication as this could show adverse events.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. However, it is safe to take this medication while pregnant.

Monurol is excreted in your breast milk. It is not recommended to take this medication if you are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.