What is the standard short-course therapy for uncomplicated cystitis in nonpregnant women?

• A. Short course antibiotics such as nitrofurantoin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
• B. Broad-spectrum therapy for 14 days
• C. IV antibiotics
• D. Observation only

Answer: (D)

Short-course oral antibiotics are standard for uncomplicated cystitis in nonpregnant women. This includes commonly used options like nitrofurantoin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, given for a short duration (typically about 3–5 days). This approach effectively relieves symptoms while minimizing antibiotic exposure and reducing the risk of resistance. Longer or broader-spectrum regimens, such as 14 days of broad-spectrum therapy, aren’t needed for this uncomplicated setting, and IV antibiotics aren’t required. Observing without treatment would allow the infection to persist or worsen, so active antibiotic therapy is the appropriate choice even though symptoms can be bothersome.