Nitrofurantoin neuropathy: a forgotten adverse effect.
BACKGROUND
Nitrofurantoin is a widely prescribed antibiotic used to treat uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections. Unknown in the obstetric and gynecologic literature is the complication of peripheral neuropathy as an adverse effect.


METHODS
We describe a patient who developed a severe sensory neuropathy after taking nitrofurantoin intermittently and then continuously over a 7-year period. She recovered almost completely after its discontinuation.


CONCLUSIONS
Peripheral neuropathy is a rare and potentially reversible adverse effect, unreported in the obstetric and gynecologic literature, and commonly unrecognized by physicians who prescribe it.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157-1066, USA. lkammire@wfubmc.edu
Leslie D
LD
Kammire
Peter D
PD
Donofrio
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D000892:Anti-Infective Agents, Urinary / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009582:Nitrofurantoin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D012008:Recurrence; D013997:Time Factors; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000188:drug therapy
D000892:Anti-Infective Agents, Urinary; D009582:Nitrofurantoin