Cinoxacin vs trimethoprim--safety and efficacy in the prophylaxis of uncomplicated urinary tract infections.

This study reports the results of long-term (24 weeks) low-dose prophylaxis in 26 young female patients suffering from recurrent uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI). The patients were randomized in a double-blind manner to treatment with 100 mg trimethoprim (TMP, 12 patients) or 500 mg cinoxacin (CNO, 14 patients) at bedtime. The duration of prophylaxis in the TMP group was 2016 and in the CNO group 2352 days. Blood chemistry, haematological and urinary parameters were closely monitored during treatment and the latter were followed for a further 4-6 weeks. The prophylactic efficacy of the drugs was equal and significant (p less than 0.05). In the TMP group one recurrence and in the CNO group two recurrences occurred during treatment, two recurrences being observed in each group during the follow-up period of 4-6 weeks. Trimethoprim is well documented and widely used; cinoxacin provides a new alternative for long-term prophylaxis.