Which of the following antibiotics is considered first-line for treating urinary tract infections in women?

Nitrofurantoin is the first-line antibiotic for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women due to its effectiveness and favorable side effect profile. It works by inhibiting bacterial enzymes and disrupting the synthesis of bacterial proteins, DNA, and cell walls, which effectively eliminates the infection.

In many cases, nitrofurantoin is preferred over other antibiotics because it achieves high concentrations in the urine where it needs to act, while being less effective systemically, thus minimizing the risk of broader systemic effects. Its specific activity against the common pathogens causing UTIs, such as Escherichia coli, makes it a suitable first-line choice.

While other antibiotics on the list may be effective in some situations, they are not typically considered first-line treatments for uncomplicated UTIs. Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone that, although effective, is often reserved for cases where first-line treatments have failed due to concerns about resistance and side effects. Amoxicillin may be appropriate in some cases, but resistance rates among UTI pathogens can be high, limiting its efficacy. Meropenem is a carbapenem antibiotic mainly used for severe or resistant infections, making it unnecessary for uncomplicated cases such as UTIs in women. Thus, nitro