Side effect of Macrobi/Nitrofurantoin

What is you opinion on taking Macrobid when you have impaired lung function? My husband was prescribed Macrobid for a bladder infection and his lung function deteriorated and he now has oxygen 24/7. Internet searches seem to indicate there is a connection.

[National Jewish Health]

Macrobid® (nitrofurantoin), when taken for short periods of time, up to a month, can cause an acute allergic lung reaction that always resolves completely when the medicine is stopped.  When the medicine is taken for sustained periods of time, 3 months or more, it can cause either toxic or allergic lung damage that is usually, but not always, irreversible.

You should ask your doctor if your husband is likely to be having a lung reaction to Macrobid® (nitrofurantoin).  If the answer is either yes or maybe, the medicine should be stopped and your husband treated with oral corticosteroids.  On the other hand if your husband has a pre-existing lung condition the need for oxygen 24/7 could have nothing to do with the Macrobid® (nitrofurantoin).

After talking with his doctor, you might want to request a second opinion from a lung specialist.

[suebe1]

A related discussion, macrobid/nitrofurantn generic was started.