For postcoital urinary tract infections, which antibiotic is considered appropriate?

Nitrofurantoin is considered an appropriate antibiotic for postcoital urinary tract infections because it specifically targets the bacteria commonly responsible for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), such as E. coli. Its mechanism of action includes disruption of bacterial cell wall synthesis, which effectively eliminates the pathogens from the urinary tract.

One significant advantage of nitrofurantoin is its concentrated action in the urine, making it particularly effective for urinary tract infections. Additionally, it is generally well-tolerated with a favorable side effect profile when used for this indication.

In the context of treating postcoital UTIs, nitrofurantoin is often chosen due to its efficacy and the fact that it has low potential for developing resistance, which is crucial for recurrent infections often seen after sexual activity. This makes it a practical choice for prophylactic or therapeutic use in such situations.