Urinary Tract Infection (Pyelonephritis) Medication Savings with TheDrugClub
Discount pricing may be available. Current formulary eligibility is being verified; a condition association does not establish FREE coverage.
- Join TheDrugClub as a member
- Receive your member card by email
- Present your card at a participating pharmacy
- Check active-formulary eligibility or available discount pricing
About Urinary Tract Infection (Pyelonephritis)
Pyelonephritis is a serious kidney infection, often stemming from an untreated urinary tract infection (UTI). It demands immediate medical care and a course of antibiotics. The cost of these vital medications can be a burden, but TheDrugClub helps ease this financial stress. Our membership ensures you can access significant savings on prescriptions, making essential treatment more affordable.
Pyelonephritis is a severe type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that affects one or both kidneys. Unlike a typical lower UTI that impacts the bladder or urethra, pyelonephritis involves the upper urinary tract, specifically the kidneys. This infection is usually caused by bacteria, often E. coli, that travels up from the bladder. If left untreated, pyelonephritis can lead to serious complications, including permanent kidney damage, sepsis (a life-threatening infection of the blood), or even kidney failure.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of pyelonephritis are typically more severe than a standard UTI and often come on suddenly. They can include:
- High fever and chills
- Severe back, side (flank), or groin pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent and painful urination
- Cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially fever and back pain, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious health issues.
Common Treatments and Medications
Treatment for pyelonephritis almost always involves antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. The type and duration of antibiotics will depend on the severity of your infection, the specific bacteria causing it, and your overall health. In milder cases, oral antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) may be prescribed for 7 to 14 days. For more severe infections, or if you're unable to keep down oral medication, hospitalization might be necessary for intravenous (IV) antibiotics such as ceftriaxone or piperacillin-tazobactam, followed by a course of oral antibiotics.
Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may also be recommended to manage fever and discomfort. Staying well-hydrated is also important to help flush bacteria from your system. It's critical to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated and prevent recurrence or antibiotic resistance.
How TheDrugClub Helps You Save
Managing pyelonephritis can involve costly prescriptions, especially if you need a longer course of antibiotics or more expensive formulations. This is where TheDrugClub steps in to help. Our membership program is designed to significantly reduce your out-of-pocket medication expenses.
With a Drug Club membership, TheDrugClub members
The information above is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.