Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are extremely common among women and are considered to be one of the most common bacterial infections.

The symptoms of UTIs are very uncomfortable, including painful urination, frequent urination, and general discomfort in the lower abdominal area. The good news is that most UTIs can be treated with antibiotics.

However, relapses can occur after treatment is completed. This is a particularly big problem since UTIs are known to cause a lot of discomfort. What triggers these relapses could be something as simple as the medication you are taking.

Medications that can cause UTI relapses

To start, it’s important to remember that any medication can potentially cause a UTI relapse, but some drugs are more likely to do so than others. Below are some of the most common types of medications that can trigger a UTI relapse:.

Diuretics

Diuretics are a type of medication that forces your body to excrete more fluids than usual. Diuretics are often prescribed to people who have high blood pressure or congestive heart failure.

They work by increasing the amount of urine that your body produces. Unfortunately, this also means that you can lose critical protective bacteria that help to prevent UTIs, allowing infection-causing bacteria to grow unchecked.

Antibiotics

Ironically, antibiotics, which are often prescribed to treat UTIs, can lead to UTI relapses. The reason for this is they can cause a change in the balance of bacteria in your body.

This is due to the fact that antibiotics are designed to kill bad bacteria (the ones responsible for infection), and they may also inadvertently kill good bacteria. When this happens, there is a greater chance that an infection can develop.

Spermicides

Spermicides are a type of birth control that are used to kill or immobilize sperm. These products can cause irritation and inflammation in the genital area, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary system.

Immunosuppressive drugs

Immunosuppressive drugs are used to prevent the immune system from overreacting and attacking the body. These drugs are often prescribed to people who have autoimmune diseases or have undergone an organ transplant.

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However, these drugs can also suppress the immune system’s ability to fight off infections, including UTIs.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells. Unfortunately, it can also kill healthy cells, including the ones that help to protect the urinary tract. This can lead to UTI relapses during or even after chemotherapy treatment has stopped.

Antihistamines and decongestants

Antihistamines and decongestants are commonly used to treat allergies, colds and other respiratory issues. These medications have a drying effect on the body, including the urinary tract.

This can lead to reduced urinary flow, which can make it easier for bacteria to grow.

Estrogens

Estrogens are hormones that are naturally produced by women and are needed for the health of the urinary system. However, the amount of estrogen produced by your body can decrease during menopause.

To prevent UTIs during this time, women may be prescribed estrogen supplements. However, estrogen supplements can also increase the amount of bacteria present in the urinary tract.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling. However, these drugs can also suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are painkillers that are used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. These medications can increase the risk of UTIs by suppressing the immune system.

Conclusion

UTI relapses can be caused by a variety of factors, including medications. If you are taking any of the medications mentioned in this article and have experienced a UTI relapse, talk to your doctor.

They may be able to suggest alternative treatments or help you manage your symptoms.