Best Urinary Tract Infection Treatments Of 2023: Safest Over The Counter UTI Remedies Backed By Science

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections, affecting over 50% of women at some point in their lives. UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing infection. The most common symptom is a painful, burning sensation when urinating. Left untreated, UTIs can lead to more serious complications like kidney infections.

While antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat UTIs, there is growing concern over antibiotic resistance resulting from overuse. Furthermore, antibiotics kill off both good and bad bacteria, which can disrupt the natural balance in the body. For these reasons, many people are turning to natural UTI supplements and medications as an alternative solution.

In this article, we will review the top 6 urinary tract infection medications and supplements in 2023 based on safety, effectiveness, quality, and customer satisfaction.

How We Ranked the Top UTI Supplements

In compiling this list, we used the following ranking criteria:

• Science-Backed Ingredients: All of the supplements contain ingredients that are supported by scientific research showing urinary tract and bladder health benefits. Each ingredient used is also completely natural thereby ensuring safety and quality.
• Safe and Natural: The products use natural ingredients and are free of major allergens. They do not have harsh side effects compared to antibiotic medications.
• Positive Customer Reviews: These UTI supplements have hundreds of positive customer testimonials validating their effectiveness and safety.
• Quality Manufacturing: The supplements are manufactured in GMP-certified facilities under strict quality standards. The companies use third-party testing to ensure purity and potency.
• Transparent Brands: These brands offer full label transparency and responsibly source their ingredients. Several have money-back guarantees showing they stand behind their products.

The 6 Highest-Rated UTI Supplements of 2023

Based on the criteria we have followed, here are the 6 best UTI supplements and medications for 2023:

• Prostadine (4.8/5) - Highest Quality UTI Supplement
• Urinoct (4.6/5) - Fast UTI Pain Relief
• Fluxactive (4.4/5) - Strengthens Bladder Lining & Clears Bacteria
• Prosta Clear (4.3/5) - Urinary and Prostate Support
• ProstaStream (4.1/5) - Reduces Urinary Tract Problems
• VitalFlow (4.0/5) - Prostate Support for Men + UTI Protection
   

1. Prostadine - Overall Best UTI Supplement

Prostadine is our top choice for urinary and bladder support. This supplement contains urinary tract-supporting ingredients. Prostadine contains ingredients like iodine, kelp powder, and nori yaki extract powder for powerful UTI protection and prevention. These natural ingredients make Prostadine extremely safe with no known side effects.

With regular use, Prostadine can help reduce your risk of recurrent UTIs. As per the official website, more than 19,651customers are satisfied with this UTI supplement. Prostadine is made in the USA following cGMP standards. There are subscription savings and a 60-day money-back guarantee available.

Key Features

• Contains high-quality ingredients that support urinary tract health
• Formulated by following the recent scientific discovery
• Free from GMOs, stimulants, and chemicals
• 60-Day “No Questions Asked” Money Back Guarantee

Visit The Official Website Of Prostadine

2. Urinoct - Natural UTI Relief Pills

Urinoct is a doctor-formulated urinary tract supplement designed to quickly provide UTI symptom relief while working to eliminate the infection. This natural UTI treatment contains ingredients that are clinically proven to support urinary system health.

Together, these ingredients have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects to fight infection and soothe UTI discomfort. The company states most customers experience significant improvement with consistent use of the supplement.

Urinoct is made in the USA at an FDA-inspected facility under strict GMP guidelines. Each batch is rigorously tested for purity and potency. There is a 60-day return policy if you are not fully satisfied with this UTI medication.

Key Features

• Formulated using natural ingredients with urinary system-supporting properties
• Fights the root cause of the problem
• 60-Day Money Back Guarantee

Visit The Official Website Of Urinoct

3. FLUXACTIVE - Powerful Bladder Support

Fluxactive contains a specialized combination of herbs with antioxidant properties to provide multidimensional bladder and urinary tract support. This supplement is designed to quickly alleviate UTI symptoms while also strengthening the bladder lining and urinary system against future infections.

Key ingredients like Chinese ginseng, vitamin E, damiana, Gingko Biloba, vitamin B3, and more work synergistically to flush out bacteria, reduce inflammation, inhibit bacterial adhesion, and support bladder health. Fluxactive is 100% drug-free and chemical-free.

The company thoroughly tests each batch for potency and purity at an FDA-registered facility in the USA. Fluxactive has helped thousands of people overcome recurrent UTIs. There is free shipping on multipack and a 60-day money-back guarantee on all orders.

Key Features

• Contains a blend of antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and herbs
• Strengthens Bladder Lining
• 90-Day Money Back Guarantee

Visit The Official Website of Fluxactive

4. Prosta Clear

Next on the list is Prosta Clear which targets the underlying cause of urinary and prostate problems. This formula contains ingredients like nettle root which is clinically proven to reduce urinary tract pain and increase the urinary flow rate. In addition to this, Prosta Clear also contains potent ingredients like milk thistle, fenugreek, and so on that help treat UTIs.

Together these ingredients fight harmful bacteria, reduce infections, provide 

anti-inflammatory support, and boost energy and stamina. This supplement is manufactured in FDA-approved and GMP-certified lab facilities following strict processing standards to ensure safety and efficacy. Exclusive discounts are available on all Prosta Clear packages along with a risk-free 180-day money-back guarantee.

Key Features

• Completely natural urinary tract support formula
• Urinary, prostate, and sleep support
• 180-day money-back guarantee

Visit The Official Website of ProstaClear

5. ProstaStream

Last but not least, ProstaStream which is a natural dietary formula that supports prostate health and helps treat UTI infections. This supplement consists of potent ingredients like saw palmetto, Pygeum africanum, red raspberry, green tea, a mushroom blend, and so on that work in synergy to help treat urinary conditions like UTIs and bladder infections.

ProstaStream is manufactured in FDA-registered lab facilities using the latest technology and equipment. The ingredients used are clinically tested and found to be free from dangerous stimulants and toxins. ProstaStream is also non-habit forming. 

Right now, ProstaStream is available through the official website at special discounts and is backed by a money-back policy of 60 days. 

Key Features

• Natural, safe, and effective urinary system and prostate support
• Non-habit forming and free from stimulants or toxins
• Backed by a 60-day refund policy

Visit The Official Website of ProstaStream

6. VitalFlow - Best for Prostate & Bladder Health

VitalFlow takes a unique approach to urinary health by supporting prostate function and bladder control in addition to fighting UTIs. This supplement contains saw palmetto berry complex, graviola leaf, mushroom blend, and other herbs that benefit prostate health and urine flow.

Together, these ingredients help clear infection-causing bacteria from the urinary system while supporting overall bladder and prostate health.

VitalFlow is made in the USA in an FDA and GMP-certified facility. There are no fillers, binders, or artificial ingredients. The company offers discounts for purchasing multiple bottles and has a 60-day money-back guarantee if you are unsatisfied.

Key Features

• Potent ingredients that support urinary and prostate health
• Free from stimulants or toxins
• 60-Day “No Questions Asked” Refund Policy

What is an Urinary Tract Infection?

A urinary tract infection is an infection caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and infect the urinary system. It spreads to different parts such as the urethra (causing urethritis), kidneys (causing pyelonephritis), and bladder (causing cystitis). Though most UTIs are caused by bacteria, some are caused by fungi and at times by viruses. Women are at high risk of getting UTIs.

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?

Urinary tract infections are typically caused when bacteria, most often E. coli from the gastrointestinal tract, enter the urinary system and attach to the lining of the bladder or urinary tract. Some factors that can increase UTI risk include:

• Gender (Female anatomy): Women have a higher risk due to their shorter urethras. The urethra is closer to the rectum in women, allowing easier transfer of bacteria. So, it is easier for the bacteria to reach the kidneys or bladder and cause infections.
• Sexual Activity: Intercourse can push bacteria into the urethra and bladder, especially if not urinating before and after libido. Having many sexual partners also increases the risk of UTIs. 
• Birth Control: Certain birth control like diaphragms and spermicides can alter bacterial balances.
• Menopause: Declining estrogen levels cause changes in the urinary tract that increase susceptibility.
• Urinary Tract Abnormalities: Blockages, stricturing, and other issues can impede the flow of urine which allows bacterial growth.
• Catheters: Bacteria on the catheter can be introduced during insertion. 
• Weakened Immune System: A compromised immune system has a harder time fighting off foreign invaders. As a result, harmful bacteria grow easily and cause UTI infections and other diseases.
• Urinary surgery or examination of the urinary tract: A recent urinary surgery or examination of the urinary tract using medical equipment increases the risk of UTI infections. 

UTI Symptoms in Adults and Children

The most common UTI symptoms include:

• Burning sensation or pain when urinating
• Frequent and intense urges to urinate
• Passing only small amounts of urine
• Urine that appears cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Low-grade fever, chills, and sweats

Symptoms can vary based on the type of UTI:

• Bladder infection (cystitis): Burning with urination, pelvic discomfort, increased urgency and frequency of urination.
• Kidney infection (pyelonephritis): Flank pain, high fever, shaking, chills, nausea.
• Urethritis: Burning at the urethral opening, discharge.
• Prostatitis: Pelvic pain, difficulty urination.

Infants and children display different symptoms such as crying during urination, wetting themselves, irritability, vomiting, poor feeding, and failure to thrive. UTIs should be treated promptly in children to prevent permanent kidney damage.

In addition to the UTI symptoms listed, men and women experience other symptoms as well due to changes in biology. In men, infections affecting the upper tract show symptoms similar to those in women. However, men with lower tract UTI infections experience rectal pain. Now, women with infections in the lower tract area experience pelvic pain in addition to other symptoms mentioned above. 

Conventional UTI Treatment with Antibiotics

For moderate to severe UTIs, doctors typically prescribe oral antibiotics for 3-7 days. Some common ones include:

• Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)- This UTI treatment is also known as cotrimoxazole or TMP-SMX. It is a three-day treatment and it consists of 2 antibiotics.
   
• Cephalexin (Keflex)- Cephalexin is an antibiotic that comes under the category of β-lactam agents. Though this drug is not officially approved for UTI treatment, it is commonly used to treat the issue and is considered as a good alternative to various other drugs under this category.
   
• Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin, Furadantin)- This is a first-line treatment that is taken exactly for five days. It is commonly used to treat urinary tract infections in pregnant women. One thing about this antibiotic is that it has low antibiotic resistance potential and a cure rate of about 83 to 93 percent.
   
• Fosfomycin (Monurol)- This is a one-day antibiotic treatment with high antibiotic resistance. It has a cure rate of 83 to 91 percent and has efficacy similar to that of Nitrofurantoin. But, as per a clinical trial that came out in 2018, nitrofurantoin is more effective than fosfomycin and hence a better alternative.
   
• Amoxicillin- Amoxicillin is also an antibiotic that comes under β-lactam agents. It is a second-line treatment that has low clinical and bacterial cure rates when compared to first-line UTI antibiotic treatments.

While antibiotics kill the infection causing bacteria, they also destroy beneficial microbes in the urinary tract and gut microbiome. This alters the natural balance of bacteria and can make someone prone to recurrent infections. Furthermore, increased antibiotic use promotes resistance which can render them ineffective.

For these reasons, more doctors and patients are looking to natural UTI supplements and treatments as an alternative to preserve health and prevent the overuse of antibiotics.

The Importance of Probiotics for Urinary Health

Millions of microorganisms live in the human body and they flourish in areas such as the skin, the reproductive tract, and the gut (the small and large intestines). Studies have found that any changes in the gut bacteria will affect the urinary tract and the skin. A healthy gut microbiome ensures that no bad bacteria enter the urinary system while a disrupted gut leads to the growth and entry of bad bacteria into the urinary tract resulting in UTI. 

Studies have discovered that there is a direct link between the gut microbiota and urinary microbiota. It has been found that people with UTIs have an imbalance in the gut microbiome. This is why supplementing with probiotics can be beneficial. 

Probiotics or “good bacteria” play a critical role in urinary tract health. The vagina and urinary system depend on colonies of beneficial lactobacilli probiotics to maintain the optimal pH balance and prevent overgrowth of harmful bacteria.

Certain strains like Lactobacillus crispatus, L. rhamnosus, and L. reuteri are particularly beneficial. Supplementing with these probiotics helps restore healthy bacterial ratios which improves natural UTI defenses.

Getting probiotics from both your diet and high-quality supplements helps maintain optimal urinary microbiome health. Many of the top UTI relief supplements include targeted probiotic strains in their formulations.

When to See a Doctor for a UTI

While supplements can be very effective for mild UTIs, you should see a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist longer than 48 hours after starting natural treatment. Severe kidney infection symptoms like high fever, back/side pain, and nausea/vomiting require immediate medical care.

Certain individuals like pregnant women, diabetics, and those with compromised immune systems should always consult their physician for evaluation and treatment. Recurrent UTIs may necessitate further testing to identify any underlying causes that require specific medical treatment.

Doctors can order a urine culture to identify the bacteria causing the infection and determine the most appropriate antibiotic if warranted. Be sure to let your doctor know if you’ve already attempted treating with natural UTI supplements.

How to Prevent UTIs

Some tips to help avoid urinary tract infections include:

• Urinate before and after intercourse- Urinating before and after intercourse will help prevent the entry of harmful bacteria into the urethra. 

• Practice proper hygiene techniques - Wiping front-to-back after using the restroom is an often overlooked but important hygiene practice. Wiping from front to back helps prevent the transfer of gastrointestinal and anal bacteria towards the urethra and urinary system, thus reducing UTI risk. Always wiping in the direction of the vagina to the anus avoids introducing new bacteria into the urethral area and maintaining urogenital health.

• Avoid prolonged use of diaphragm contraceptives- Birth control methods like diaphragm contraceptives will increase the chance of bacterial growth. It would be better to use a water-based lubricant to maintain vaginal dryness. 

• Stay hydrated and avoid holding urine- Drink plenty of water and empty your bladder often. Holding your urine will help bacteria thrive and cause infections. By urinating around 4 to 8 times per day, you can steer clear of bacterial growth.

• Take showers instead of baths- The ideal environment for bacteria growth is warm and hot conditions. So, it is better to avoid hot tubs and baths and take showers instead. In the case of bubble baths, the soap might irritate the urinary tract. 

• Avoid excessive use of spermicides- Excessive use of spermicides might lead to UTIs as they harm the beneficial bacteria and create an environment for the growth of dangerous bacteria. 

• Take probiotic supplements- Probiotic supplements contain probiotics that are beneficial bacteria. They help increase the levels of good bacteria and also support their growth in the urinary tract. 

• Replace feminine products frequently- Feminine products adversely affect the growth of good bacteria like Lactobacilli in the vagina and allow the spread of harmful bacteria. This results in yeast infections, UTIs, and bacterial vaginosis. So, replace such products. 

• Get prompt treatment for vaginal infections- The most important thing is to get treatment for vaginal infections on time. If the condition worsens even after following the above-mentioned tips, consult a health professional and take the necessary medications. 

Wearing loose, cotton underwear and clothing can help keep the urogenital area cooler and drier. Taking supplements that support urinary tract health is also recommended for UTI prevention, especially for those prone to recurrent infections.

Final Thoughts on Managing UTIs With Natural Supplements

In conclusion, urinary tract infections affect millions of women and men each year. While antibiotics remain the standard medical treatment, natural supplements provide a safe and effective means for UTI relief and prevention without the downsides of repetitive antibiotic use.

The top 6 UTI supplements highlighted here contain research-backed ingredients that can quickly ease UTI discomfort while working to eliminate the root infection. Many customers report these products have reduced their recurrent UTIs.

However, it’s important to note that UTIs in high-risk individuals like pregnant women, diabetics, and those with kidney disorders may require medical evaluation and treatment. For everyone else, these science-backed supplements present an accessible way to resolve UTIs and maintain long-term urinary tract health when used properly.

Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.