Monuril in pregnancy

Monuril – what kind of drug is it?

Monuril is the trade name of a popular antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections. Phosphomycin, the name of the active ingredient in Monuril, is a bactericidal antibiotic that is effective against E. coli, Proteus or Klebsiella bacteria, among others. Monural is most commonly used to treat cystitis and asymptomatic bacteriuria, which is an indication for antibiotic therapy in pregnant women.

Monuril is supplied in the form of a sachet, which usually contains 3 g of fosfomycin together with additives (including flavorings). It should be dissolved in 100 ml of water, after a meal. This is because food reduces the absorption of the drug.

Monuril in pregnancy – is it safe?

Monuril is an antibiotic and therefore available only on a doctor’s prescription. This means that therapy with this drug is performed by a doctor.  Fosfomycin is considered the drug of first choice for urinary tract infections in pregnancy, along with amoxicillin or cephalosporins. The difference between the antibiotics includes the fact that Monuril is given in a single dose, with 1 sachet of the antibiotic being drunk dissolved. With the other drugs, treatment takes longer. Fosfomycin is classified as category B according to the FDA category. This means that it is a drug that is considered safe in pregnancy, but the studies were done in animals. However, it should not be used alone. 

Urinary tract infections in pregnancy

During pregnancy, urinary tract infections occur more frequently than in women who are not pregnant. This is due to the various changes in the mother-to-be’s body. Causes of more frequent UTIs include urine stasis in the kidneys, dilatation of the renal pelvic system, and increased kidney volume. Asymptomatic bacteriuria can be particularly dangerous for the expectant mother, which is why a pregnant woman should have a general urine test every month. If bacteria are present, antibiotic therapy is given to prevent the development of acute pyelonephritis.