Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Nitrofurantoin Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrofurantoin Macrocrystals 50mg (generic) | $8 – $18 | $2 – $8 |
| Nitrofurantoin Monohydrate 100mg (generic) | $8 – $25 | $3 – $10 |
| Macrobid 100mg (brand) | $100 – $200 | $15 – $40 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Tier 1-2 generic — first-line treatment for uncomplicated UTIs
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Generic nitrofurantoin costs $8 to $30 for a typical 5-7 day course without insurance. The brand name Macrobid is much more expensive at $100 to $200.
Nitrofurantoin has low resistance rates, concentrates in urine (not the blood), and causes minimal disruption to gut bacteria. These properties make it ideal for uncomplicated bladder infections.
Patients with kidney impairment (CrCl less than 30), G6PD deficiency, or those in late pregnancy (38+ weeks) should avoid nitrofurantoin. It is not effective for kidney infections.