Cystitis treatment, fast relief without the waiting room

What is cystitis?

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder, most often caused by a bacterial infection that travels up the urethra. The classic signs are a burning or stinging sensation when you urinate, a strong and persistent urge to go, passing only small amounts even when the urge is intense, and urine that looks cloudy or smells stronger than usual. You may also have a dull ache low in your tummy.

It is more common in women than men because the urethra is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Episodes can be triggered by sex, hormonal changes, or simply being susceptible — some women have several each year, others have their first at any age. It is rarely something you did wrong.

How is cystitis treated?

Most uncomplicated urine infections in otherwise healthy women are treated effectively with a short antibiotic course — usually three to seven days depending on which antibiotic is chosen. Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria out and can ease discomfort. Over-the-counter sachets that make urine less acidic may reduce the burning sensation while you wait for antibiotics to work, though they do not clear the infection on their own.

We do not list specific medicines on this page because the right antibiotic and the right length of course is a clinical decision — one the prescriber makes after checking your health, your history, and whether there are any reasons to prefer one option over another. Those details are confirmed inside your consultation.

How the online consultation works for cystitis

The consultation takes about five minutes. You will describe your symptoms and how long you have had them, answer a few questions about your general health — including whether you are pregnant, whether this is a recurring problem, and whether you have had recent kidney infections — and list any medicines or allergies. A UK prescriber reads your answers and decides whether treatment is safe and suitable.

If treatment is approved, your prescription is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy at 245 High Street, Stratford, and delivered in plain packaging the next working day — or you can collect in store.

Treating cystitis with NewGen

NewGen Pharmacy is a real NHS community pharmacy, not just a website. Our online clinic is run by the same registered team that serves walk-in patients every day. You get the same clinical standard, the same UK-licensed medicines, and the same duty of care — without leaving home or sitting in a waiting room.

When to see your GP or call NHS 111 instead

An online consultation is suited to straightforward urine infections in otherwise well adults. You should see your GP or call NHS 111 if your symptoms include back pain, fever or shivers (possible kidney infection), if you are pregnant, if this is a third or more infection in the past year, if you have had a kidney infection before, or if symptoms do not improve within 48 hours of starting treatment. If we cannot safely treat you online, we will tell you clearly and direct you to the right care.