Can Medications Lead to UTIs? 9 Common Drugs That May Be to Blame

Medications That Can Increase UTI Risk

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria grow in the urinary tract, causing discomfort such as burning during urination and urgency. While several factors contribute to UTIs, certain medications can increase the risk by affecting bladder function or weakening the immune system.

How Medications Contribute to UTIs

Some drugs cause urinary retention, allowing bacteria to multiply, while others alter bladder muscle contractions or suppress the immune system, making infections more likely. Below are nine types of medications that may raise the risk of UTIs:

1. Anticholinergics (e.g., Oxybutynin, Benztropine)

• Block acetylcholine, leading to urinary retention.

  
  

2. First-Generation Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine, Doxylamine)

• Have anticholinergic effects that reduce bladder emptying.

  
  

3. SGLT2 Inhibitors (e.g., Jardiance, Farxiga)

• Increase glucose in urine, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

  
  

4. Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., Amlodipine, Diltiazem)

• May weaken bladder contractions, leading to urinary retention.

  
  

5. Antidepressants (e.g., Amitriptyline, Fluoxetine, Sertraline)

• Some cause urinary retention due to anticholinergic effects or serotonin regulation.

  
  

6. NSAIDs (e.g., Diclofenac, Ketoprofen)

• May interfere with bladder contractions, increasing retention.

  
  

7. Opioids (e.g., Morphine, Fentanyl)

• Weaken bladder muscle contractions and dull the urge to urinate.

  
  

8. First-Generation Antipsychotics (e.g., Chlorpromazine, Haloperidol)

• Can cause urinary retention due to anticholinergic effects.

  
  

9. Immunosuppressants (e.g., Prednisone, Cyclosporine)

• Suppress the immune system, making infections more likely.

  
  

Can Antibiotics Cause UTIs?

No, but overuse can lead to antibiotic-resistant UTIs, making future infections harder to treat.

If you frequently experience UTIs, talk to your healthcare provider about potential medication-related risks and alternative options.

Preventing Medication-Related UTIs

To reduce the risk of UTIs caused by medications, consider the following strategies:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract.

• Practice Good Bladder Habits: Empty the bladder completely and avoid delaying urination.

• Discuss Alternative Medications: If a prescribed drug increases UTI risk, ask your doctor about potential substitutes with fewer urinary side effects.

• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in urinary habits and report them to your healthcare provider.

• Support Immune Health: Maintain a healthy diet, consider probiotics, and avoid unnecessary use of immunosuppressants when possible.

Foley, K., & Gershman, J. (2024, November 4). Can medications cause UTIs? Yes, and here’s 9 possible culprits. GoodRx. https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/side-effects/can-medication-cause-uti

American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria Update Expert Panel. (2023). American Geriatrics Society 2023 updated AGS Beers Criteria for potentially inappropriate medication use in older adults. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.