How can UTIs be cured?

Answer 1

If the UTI is treated early, the use of antibiotics may be avoided. Several products are available over the counter. Most uncomplicated UTIs can be treated with oral antibiotics such as trimethoprim, cephalosporins, nitrofurantoin, or a fluoroquinolone (e.g. ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin). Whilst co-trimoxazole was previously internationally used (and continues to be used in the U.S.), the additional of the sulphonamide gave little additional benefit compared to the trimethoprim component alone, but was responsible for its both high incidence of mild allergic reactions and rare but serious complications. If the patient has symptoms consistent with pyelonephritis, intravenous antibiotics may be indicated. For acute pyelonephritis, use Aminoglycoside plus Ampicillin (I.V.). Patients with recurrent UTIs may need further investigation. This may include ultrasound scans of the kidneys and bladder or intravenous urography (X-rays of the urological system following intravenous injection of iodinated contrast material). If there is no response to treatments, interstitial cystitis may be a possibility. During cystitis, uropathogenic Escherichia coli(UPEC) subvert innate defenses by invading superficial umbrella cells and rapidly increasing in numbers to form intracellular bacterial communities (IBCs). Researchers at Center for Genomic Sciences, Allegheny Singer Research Institute, and the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine have shown that biofilms are responsible for chronic infections and, from a clinical perspective, traditional antibiotic therapy will never be a successful treatment against biofilm bacteria. [1] 1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urinary_tract_infection#Treatment

Answer 2

Oral antibiotics such as trimethoprim, cephalosporins, nitrofurantoin, or a fluoroquinolone such as ciprofloxacin substantially shorten the time to recovery. About 50% of people will recover without treatment within a few days or weeks.