In cases of uncomplicated cystitis, what is the standard treatment duration?

In cases of uncomplicated cystitis, the standard treatment duration is typically 3 days, which aligns with the answer provided. This duration is based on evidence showing that a shorter course of antibiotics is both effective and has a lower risk of side effects compared to longer regimens. Studies have demonstrated that a 3-day course of antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or nitrofurantoin leads to similar cure rates as more prolonged treatments, making it a practical and efficient choice for patients.

Longer treatment durations, such as 7, 14 days, or even just 1 day, may not be as beneficial for uncomplicated cases. Prolonged therapy can increase the likelihood of adverse effects and antibiotic resistance, while a single day's treatment may not provide sufficient time for the antibiotics to clear the infection effectively. Therefore, 3 days is recommended to achieve adequate resolution of symptoms while minimizing potential complications.