Pyridium 200 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

PYRIDIUM 200 MG TABLET

Pyridium 200 mg Tablet is a medication prescribed for the symptomatic relief of discomforts arising from irritation of the lower urinary tract. It is manufactured by LUPIN LTD.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Pyridium 200 mg Tablet
  • Generic Name: Phenazopyridine Hydrochloride

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Phenazopyridine HCl 200 mg
  • Inactive Ingredients: Carnauba wax, croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, povidone, and pregelatinized starch.

• Uses: Pyridium is used to relieve symptoms such as pain, burning, urgency, and frequency of urination. These symptoms can be caused by irritation of the lower urinary tract mucosa due to factors like infection, trauma, surgery, endoscopic procedures, or the insertion of catheters. It's important to note that Pyridium provides only symptomatic relief and does not treat the underlying cause of the irritation or infection. When used for urinary tract infections (UTIs), it is typically prescribed alongside an antibiotic.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • For adults, the typical dosage is one 200 mg tablet, taken three times a day, after meals.
  • To minimize stomach upset, it should be taken with or after food.
  • Tablets should be swallowed whole and not split, crushed, or chewed.
  • When used concurrently with an antibacterial agent for a urinary tract infection, Pyridium administration should not exceed 2 days.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. A common and expected effect is a harmless reddish-orange discoloration of urine and feces, which may also stain clothing and contact lenses.
  • Serious Side Effects: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, signs of kidney problems (e.g., changes in the amount of urine, bloody urine, little to no urination, swelling, rapid weight gain, pain in the side or lower back), fever, chills, easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, seizures, confusion, pale skin, loss of appetite, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. In rare cases, a blue or purple appearance of the skin (methemoglobinemia) can occur.

• Precautions:

  • Do not use Pyridium for longer than 2 days without consulting a doctor, especially if it's being taken with antibiotics for a UTI, as it only provides symptomatic relief.
  • This medicine is not recommended for individuals with kidney disease, severe liver impairment, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency due to increased risks.
  • Pyridium may interfere with certain laboratory tests, such as urine tests for kidney function, bilirubin, and sugar levels, potentially causing false results. Inform laboratory personnel and healthcare providers about its use.
  • Due to the risk of staining, do not wear soft contact lenses while taking this medication.
  • Pyridium may cause dizziness; exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
  • Alcohol consumption may intensify dizziness.
  • Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Storage: Store Pyridium 200 mg Tablets at room temperature, typically between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F), away from light and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions about PYRIDIUM 200 MG TABLET (Phenazopyridine)

What is Pyridium 200 mg Tablet used for?

Pyridium 200 mg Tablet (Phenazopyridine) is a urinary tract analgesic used to relieve symptoms like pain, burning, urgency, and frequent urination. These symptoms typically arise from irritation of the lower urinary tract mucosa, often caused by infection, injury, surgery, or catheter use. It's important to note that Pyridium only helps relieve symptoms; it does not treat the underlying infection itself.

How does Pyridium 200 mg Tablet work?

Pyridium (phenazopyridine) is an azo dye that acts as a local anesthetic on the urinary tract lining. It is excreted in the urine, where it exerts a topical analgesic effect on the mucosa of the urinary tract, which helps to soothe irritation and relieve pain, burning, urgency, and frequency. The exact mechanism by which it works is not fully known.

What is the usual dosage for Pyridium 200 mg Tablet?

For adults, the typical dosage is one 200 mg tablet taken three times a day, preferably after meals. When prescribed alongside an antibiotic for a urinary tract infection, Pyridium should generally not be taken for more than two days. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosage and duration.

What are the possible side effects of Pyridium 200 mg Tablet?

Common side effects can include headache, dizziness, stomach pain or upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a skin rash. A notable and expected side effect is the discoloration of urine to an orange or reddish-orange color, which is normal and harmless. More serious, though less common, side effects include pale or yellowed skin (jaundice), fever, confusion, weakness, little to no urination, swelling, rapid weight gain, and a blue or purple appearance of the skin. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Pyridium 200 mg Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, Pyridium should only be used if clearly prescribed by a doctor, as there are limited human studies, although animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects. For breastfeeding mothers, it is not known if Pyridium passes into breast milk or how it might affect a nursing infant. Some data suggest it may cause toxicity to the baby, so it is generally considered unsafe during breastfeeding. It is crucial to consult your doctor before taking this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can Pyridium 200 mg Tablet be taken with other medications?

Pyridium can interact with other medications, and some interactions can be moderate or major. It is essential to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions. For instance, it may interact with topical anesthetics and ciprofloxacin.

What precautions should be taken while taking Pyridium 200 mg Tablet?

Do not use Pyridium for more than two days when treating a urinary tract infection, as it only relieves symptoms and does not cure the infection, potentially masking a worsening condition. Always take it with or after food to help prevent stomach upset. Expect your urine to turn orange or red, which is normal but can stain clothing and contact lenses; it is advised not to wear soft contact lenses while on this medication. Pyridium should not be used if you have kidney disease, severe liver disease, or a G6PD deficiency. This medication may also interfere with certain urine laboratory tests. If your skin or eyes turn yellow, or if your symptoms worsen or persist, discontinue use and contact your doctor.

What happens if a dose of Pyridium 200 mg Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

How should Pyridium 200 mg Tablet be stored?

Store Pyridium 200 mg Tablet at room temperature, typically between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Keep it in a dry place, protected from light and moisture, and away from excessive heat. Ensure it is stored safely out of the reach of children and pets. Do not store it in the bathroom.