A recent review published on November 4 in Pediatrics offers promising insights into preventative treatments for children with recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTI). The findings suggest that nitrofurantoin and cranberry-based products may help reduce the frequency of symptomatic UTI episodes, offering potential relief to children with a history of these infections.

Led by Dr. Nikolaos Gkiourtzis from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, the research team conducted a thorough analysis of existing randomized controlled trials. The study involved 23 trials with 3,335 participants, examining the effectiveness of various prophylactic measures, including cranberry products and antibiotics like nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, in preventing UTI recurrence and kidney scarring.

The review’s results showed that both cranberry products and nitrofurantoin significantly reduced the risk of symptomatic UTIs. Notably, nitrofurantoin emerged as the most effective option when compared to other interventions, including trimethoprim-based antibiotics. However, despite the observed decrease in UTI incidence, none of the prophylaxis methods studied demonstrated a reduction in kidney scarring, a potential long-term complication of recurrent UTIs.

The authors emphasized the importance of continuing research into non-antibiotic alternatives to further support children with RUTI. “Future studies with optimal methodology, studying nonantibiotic prophylaxis options, focusing on children with RUTI, and the risk for kidney scarring are needed to draw further conclusions,” the authors noted, underscoring the need for new, safe approaches to manage UTIs without contributing to antibiotic resistance.

These findings offer valuable guidance for pediatricians and parents alike, as UTI prevention remains a top priority for children prone to these infections. Cranberry products, often praised for their potential in natural UTI prevention, and nitrofurantoin may become key players in the management of RUTI, as the search continues for effective nonantibiotic options.