Microbiological Evaluation of Efficacy of Nitrofurantoin against Uropathogenic E. coli

Background: In Bangladesh, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most prevalent bacterial infections. Antimicrobial resistance in uropathogenic Escherichia coli has become a growing concern due to the pervasive and indiscriminate use of antibiotics. The objective of this study was to conduct a microbiological assessment of the efficacy of nitrofurantoin against uropathogenic E. coli. Methods: This prospective study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology, Dhaka National Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, over a one-year period from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024. A total of 4,375 urine specimens were aseptically collected in sterile containers from patients clinically suspected of urinary tract infection. Urine culture was performed, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the isolated Escherichia coli strains to nitrofurantoin was subsequently undertaken. Result: Among 4375 urine samples, 1748 (63.68%) of significant growth were E. coli isolates. 177 (10.13%) of E. coli isolates were nitrofurantoin resistant. Conclusion: UropathogenicE. coli were found to have excellent sensitivity against nitrofurantoin. So, the drug can be used as 1st line antibiotic to treat UTI, especially in uncomplicated cases. J Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2025; 31 (02): 12-16