What Are the Treatments for a Group B Strep Urinary Tract Infection?

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a spherical bacteria that is commonly found in the digestive and lower genital tract of many individuals but may cause urinary tract infections (UTI) in newborns and in immunocompromised individuals 2. The common symptoms associated with GBS UTIs include frequent, painful urination, low grade fever and abdominal pain. As per an article published in the February 2000 edition of the American Family Physician, GBS is responsible for UTIs in about 5 percent of pregnant women and can lead to serious consequences such as preterm rupture of membranes and premature delivery.

Antibiotics

Drug allergies are common with all the beta lactam antibiotics and the signs, as per MayoClinic.com, include:

• rash
  
• hives
  
• breathing difficulties
  
• swelling of the face 34

Clindamycin and erythromycin are prescribed in such cases, although several strains of GBS are resistant to these antibiotitcs. Vancomycin is the other alternative and works well against GBS infections of urinary tract. Gastric disturbances such as upset stomach, nausea and vomiting are the most common side effects of vancomycin.

Fluids

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Consumption of large amounts of fluids helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, thereby helping with the treatment. At least eight to 10 glasses of water should be taken per day. In patients with severe debilitating infections, fluids can be given intravenously using an IV bag and a hypodermic needle.

Anti-pyretics

Anti-pyretics are drugs that bring down the body temperature and may be used to treat fever that is associated with GBS urinary tract infections. Anti-pyretics such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin are available in the pharmacy without a prescription and can be taken as and when required. However, according to MayoClinic.com, aspirin and ibuprofen are not recommended for pregnant women 3. Aspirin is also not recommended for children younger that 18 years of age due to the risk of developing a serious condition known as Reye's syndrome characterized by swelling of brain and liver 3.

Anticholinergic Drugs

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Anticholinergic drugs help relieve the symptoms frequent and painful urination that are frequently associated with GBS urinary tract infections. Anticholinergics such as oxybutynin are available in tablet form and can be taken orally with or without food 5. Common side effects of oxybutynin include:

• dry mouth
  
• dry eyes
  
• blurred vision
  
• mild constipation
  
• diarrhea,
  
• nausea 5

Drugs.com also warns against the use of oxybutynin in pregnant women because its effect on the fetus is not completely known 5.