Drug interactions
Magnesium sulfate + Nitrofurantoin
Severity: Minor
Magnesium sulfate and Nitrofurantoin: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Orally administered magnesium sulfate may reduce nitrofurantoin absorption, and its laxative effect may also shorten transit time. The effect is likely small and applies only to oral use.
What this interaction means in plain words
Magnesium sulfate and Nitrofurantoin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Magnesium may bind nitrofurantoin in the gut and osmotic laxative action reduces absorption.
What to do
If oral magnesium sulfate is needed, take nitrofurantoin at least 2 hours beforehand. Intravenous magnesium does not require adjustment.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Nitrofurantoin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Magnesium sulfate with Nitrofurantoin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Magnesium sulfate and Nitrofurantoin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Orally administered magnesium sulfate may reduce nitrofurantoin absorption, and its laxative effect may also shorten transit time. The effect is likely small and applies only to oral use.
How serious is the interaction between Magnesium sulfate and Nitrofurantoin?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: If oral magnesium sulfate is needed, take nitrofurantoin at least 2 hours beforehand. Intravenous magnesium does not require adjustment.
What other medicines interact with Nitrofurantoin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Nitrofurantoin with, for example, Pexidartinib, Pretomanid, Aluminum hydroxide. The full list is on the Nitrofurantoin page.
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