DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Phenazopyridine

March 21, 2017

Phenazopyridine Hydrochloride Oral tablet

What is this medicine?

PHENAZOPYRIDINE (fen az oh PEER i deen) is a pain reliever. It is used to stop the pain, burning, or discomfort caused by infection or irritation of the urinary tract. This medicine is not an antibiotic. It will not cure a urinary tract infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency

  • kidney disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to phenazopyridine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take after meals. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

This medicine colors body fluids red. This effect is harmless and will go away after you are done taking the medicine. It will change urine to an dark orange or red color. The red color may stain clothing. Soft contact lenses may become permanently stained. It is best not to wear soft contact lenses while taking this medicine.

If you are diabetic you may get a false positive result for sugar in your urine. Talk to your health care provider.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • blue or purple color of the skin

  • difficulty breathing

  • fever

  • less urine

  • unusual bleeding, bruising

  • unusual tired, weak

  • vomiting

  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • dark urine

  • headache

  • stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert