What is fosfomycin (Monurol)? 

Fosfomycin is an antibiotic that fights infection caused by bacteria. 

Fosfomycin is  used to treat bladder infections. 

Fosfomycin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. 

What are the possible side effects of fosfomycin (Monurol)? 

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of  your face, lips, tongue,  or throat. 

Less serious side effects may  be more likely to occur, such as: 

• diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain or upset; 
• headache; 
• dizziness; 
• weakness; 
• stuffy nose, sore throat; 
• menstrual pain; 
• back pain; or 
• Vaginal itching or discharge. 

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk  to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA. 

What is the most important information I should know about fosfomycin (Monurol)? 

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you.  Do not use it  in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor.  Follow the directions on your prescription label. 

Fosfomycin is usually given in only one dose. Do not take more than a single dose of this medication unless your doctor has told you to. 

The usual dose of this medicine is one packet of powder mixed with cold water. Do not use hot water or take the powder in its dry form. 

To be sure fosfomycin is the right antibiotic for the type of infection you have, your urine will need to be tested before  and after you take this medication. Do not miss any scheduled visits to  your doctor. 

It may take 2 or 3 days before your symptoms improve. Talk with your  doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 3 days after treatment. 

Get emergency medical help if you think you have used too much medicine,  or if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. 

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all. Talk  to your doctor about  any side effect that seems unusual or is especially bothersome. 

Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms  you have. 

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking fosfomycin (Monurol)? 

Do  not use this medication if you are allergic to fosfomycin. 

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. 

It is not known whether  fosfomycin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. 

Do not give this medication to a child younger than 12 years old without the advice of a doctor. 

Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms you have. 

How should I take fosfomycin (Monurol)? 

Take this medication  exactly as it was prescribed for you.  Do not take the medication in larger amounts,  or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label. 

Fosfomycin is usually given in only one dose. Do not take more than  a single dose  of this medication unless your doctor has told you to. 

You may take fosfomycin with or without food. 

Fosfomycin comes in  a powder form. The usual dose of this medicine is one  packet of powder mixed with water. Do not take the powder in its dry form. 

Dissolve the powder completely in 3 to 4  ounces of cold water. Do not use hot water or any other type of beverage. Stir this mixture and drink all of  it right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away. 

To be sure fosfomycin is the right antibiotic  for the type of infection you have, your urine will need to be tested before and after you take  this medication. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor. 

It may take 2 or 3 days before your symptoms improve. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 3 days after treatment. 

Store fosfomycin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. 

What happens if I miss a dose (Monurol)? 

Since fosfomycin is usually taken only once as needed, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking  the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it  is almost time for  your next dose, skip  the missed dose and take the medicine at  your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose. 

What happens if I overdose (Monurol)? 

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. 

Symptoms of a fosfomycin overdose may include loss of balance, hearing problems,  or an unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth. 

What should I avoid while taking fosfomycin (Monurol)? 

Fosfomycin can cause side effects that may impair your balance, thinking, or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. 

What other drugs will affect fosfomycin (Monurol)? 

Before using fosfomycin, tell  your doctor if you are also using metoclopramide (Reglan). You  may not be able  to use fosfomycin, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment. 

There may be other drugs that can affect fosfomycin. Tell  your doctor about all the  prescription and over-the-counter medications  you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling  your doctor.

Where can I get more information? 

Your pharmacist has information about fosfomycin written for health professionals that you may read. 

Notes: Dr. Nelson Crumfield

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EditText of this page (last edited June 10, 2010)