An oral vaccine currently being tested for recurrent urinary tract infections may help reduce the use of antibiotics.
Researchers say the vaccine kept the majority of patients in a new study UTI-free for up to nine years with no notable side effects.
89 men and women received the vaccine, which is administered with two sprays of a pineapple flavored suspension under the tongue every day for three months.
Long-term prevention was achieved in 54% of them, according to the results.
And many of those who did get a UTI reported that drinking plenty of water was enough to treat it.
UTIs are painful and often require antibiotics during a time when resistance is on the rise.
While more research is needed, one author says this “data suggests [the vaccine] could be a game changer for UTI prevention if it’s offered widely, reducing the need for antibiotic treatments.”
