The Effect of Canephron N in Preventing Urinary Tract Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

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Abstract
Aim: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections, particularly in women, with significant implications for quality of life and healthcare costs. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Canephron N in preventing UTIs, comparing its effects to antibiotics and assessing its potential as an antibiotic‐sparing alternative. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search across multiple databases (Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov ) up to July 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane RoB 2 for RCTs and ROBINS‐I for non‐randomized studies. Meta‐analyses were performed using random‐effects models, with outcomes including bacteriuria presence, Acute Cystitis Symptom Scores (ACSS), and adverse events. Heterogeneity was quantified via the I 2 statistic. Results: From 246 initially identified records, 12 studies (eight RCTs, three observational, one retrospective; n = 3821 patients) were included. Canephron N demonstrated non‐inferiority to antibiotics in reducing UTI recurrence (6‐month rates: 8.9% vs. 17.8%) and symptom severity (ACSS reduction: −1.9 to −2.3 points). Pooled analyses revealed significant difference in bacteriuria clearance (RR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.20–1.48, p < 0.0001) and no significant adverse events (RR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.69–1.18, p = 0.43), though gastrointestinal events were less frequent with Canephron (4.8% vs. 7.1%). Heterogeneity was moderate (I 2 = 72% for bacteriuria outcomes), attributed to variability in study designs and comparators. Conclusion: Canephron N is an effective and safe alternative to antibiotics for preventing uncomplicated UTIs, with comparable symptom relief and a lower ecological impact.

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