Pyridium
Pyridium Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Pyridium is a brand name. Its generic name is Phenazopyridine.
Pyridium Introduction
Pyridium is an azo dye which is primarily used to treat urinary tract infections. It is an analgesic drug which can be administered either orally or rectally. It is sometimes used to reduce the pain, burning, and urgency associated with these infections.
Uses For
Pyridium is used to reduce the unpleasant symptoms of a urinary tract infection. This includes pain, burning, and urgency. It is sometimes used if antibiotics are not desired or tolerated.
Mechanism of Action
Pyridium is an analgesic and has anti-inflammatory effects. It is thought to act by blocking the action of substances that cause irritation in the urinary tract.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Most people report relief from their symptoms within one hour of taking phenazopyridine. However, relief of symptoms may take up to 2 hours.
Absorption
Pyridium is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration.
Route of Elimination
Pyridium is rapidly eliminated from the body mainly through the kidneys. Approximately 50 to 70% of an oral dose is excreted in the urine over 24 hours.
Dosage and Administration
For adults, the recommended dose of phenazopyridine is 200mg three times daily for up to 2 days. For children ages 12 and over, the dose is the same as for adults.
Pyridium can be administered either orally or rectally. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Rectal suppositories should be gently inserted into the rectum as directed.
Side Effects
Some common side effects of phenazopyridine include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and GI upset. Other less common side effect may include rash, headache, itching, or stomach pain.
Toxicity
At therapeutic doses, there is no evidence of significant toxicity due to phenazopyridine. However, at higher doses it can cause dizziness, confusion, coma, and seizures.
Precaution
Pyridium should be used with caution in patients with decreased hepatic or renal function, as well as in patients with a history of allergies or asthma.
Interactions
Pyridium can interact with other medications. It should not be used with antacids, as this can reduce its effectiveness. It is also not recommended to take two doses within one hour of each other.
Disease Interactions
Pyridium may affect how certain medications work, and may worsen or aggravate certain conditions, such as kidney disease. Be sure to tell your doctor about all your medical conditions before taking phenazopyridine.
Drug Interactions
Pyridium may interact with certain medications. It is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking before starting this drug.
Food Interactions
Pyridium may interact with certain foods. Foods that are high in calcium, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, may reduce the absorption of phenazopyridine and should be avoided.
Pregnancy and Lactation Use
Pyridium should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit of the drug justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known if phenazopyridine is excreted in breast milk, and therefore breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication.
Acute Overdose
In cases of overdose, contact a health care professional or poison control center immediately. Symptoms of an acute overdose may include drowsiness, rapid heart rate, confusion, and seizures.
Contraindications
Pyridium is not recommended in patients with a known allergy to it or to any of its components. It is also contraindicated in those with a history of kidney or hepatic impairment.
Use Direction
Pyridium should be taken three times daily with a full glass of water. Rectal suppositories should be administered to children 3-12 years of age or as directed by your health care provider.
Storage Conditions
Store at room temperature in a container labeled “closed” and away from light. Keep all medications out of the reach of children.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of phenazopyridine is 0.74 L/kg.
Half Life
The half life of phenazopyridine is 1.7 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of phenazopyridine is 50-70 ml/min.
Here you find in details version of Pyridium
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Pyridium
What is Pyridium?
Pyridium is an oral urinary analgesic (pain relieving medication). It is used to relieve the pain, burning, and discomfort caused by urinary tract infections and urinary tract stones.
How does Pyridium work?
Pyridium works by relieving pain and inflammation in the urinary tract, which can cause irritation and burning. It is believed to do this by blocking the pain signals sent from the bladder to the brain, thus preventing the sensation of pain.
How long does Pyridium take to work?
Pyridium generally begins to work within 1-2 hours. It can take up to 6 hours to reach its full effect.
What are the side effects of Pyridium?
The most common side effects of Pyridium are nausea, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, constipation, and rash. If these side effects persist or worsen, you should tell your doctor.
Is Pyridium safe to take for a long period of time?
No, Pyridium is not recommended for long-term use. Pyridium is intended for short-term relief of symptoms and cannot treat the underlying cause of your urinary tract infection or stone.
Is it safe to take Pyridium with other medications?
It is best to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking before taking Pyridium. Some medications can interact with Pyridium and make it less effective, or cause serious side effects.
What are the possible interactions of Pyridium and alcohol?
Alcohol may increase the risk of certain side effects associated with Pyridium, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and rash. It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Pyridium.
What is the recommended dosage of Pyridium?
The recommended dose of Pyridium is 200 mg three times a day after meals. Your doctor may adjust the dose depending on your symptoms and response.
How should Pyridium be taken?
Pyridium should be taken by mouth as directed by your doctor, typically with a full glass of water. It should be taken with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
Can Pyridium be taken with food?
Yes, it is usually recommended to take Pyridium with food in order to minimize the risk of stomach upset.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Pyridium?
If you miss a dose of Pyridium, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Can Pyridium be used to treat a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
No, Pyridium is not an antibiotic and will not treat a UTI. It is an oral urinary analgesic and is used to relieve the pain, burning, and discomfort that can be associated with a UTI or other urinary tract condition.
How long does it take for Pyridium to work for a UTI?
Pyridium usually begins to work within 1-2 hours. It can take up to 6 hours to reach its full effect.
Should I take Pyridium with food?
It is recommended to take Pyridium with food in order to minimize the risk of stomach upset.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Pyridium?
If you miss a dose of Pyridium, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Is it safe to take Pyridium if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
You should not take Pyridium if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pyridium can be transferred to the baby through breastmilk and may cause harm to an unborn or newborn child.
Does Pyridium have any drug interactions?
Yes, Pyridium can interact with certain medications. It is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking before taking Pyridium to avoid any serious drug interactions.
What are the most common side effects of Pyridium?
The most common side effects of Pyridium are nausea, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, constipation, and rash. If these side effects persist or worsen, you should tell your doctor.
Can I take Pyridium while I'm taking antibiotics?
Yes, it is generally safe to take both Pyridium and antibiotics to treat a urinary tract infection (UTI). However, antibiotics are necessary to treat a UTI since Pyridium does not treat an infection.
What should I do if I experience any side effects while taking Pyridium?
If you experience any side effects while taking Pyridium, you should contact your doctor immediately. Do not stop taking the medication without speaking to your doctor first, as this could make the symptoms worse.
Does Pyridium have any long-term effects?
No, there are no known long-term effects of taking Pyridium. However, as with any medication, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking it for more than a couple of days.
Should I take Pyridium with food or on an empty stomach?
It is usually recommended to take Pyridium with food in order to reduce the likelihood of stomach upset.
Does Pyridium have any major side effects?
Serious side effects with Pyridium are rare, but can include a worsening of urinary symptoms, hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
How long can I take Pyridium?
Pyridium is intended for short-term relief of symptoms and should not be taken for more than 2 days. If your symptoms persist after two days, contact your doctor.
Can Pyridium cause kidney damage?
No, Pyridium has not been proven to cause kidney damage or failure. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you have any kidney problems before taking the medication.
Can I take Pyridium with other medications?
It is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking before taking Pyridium. Some medications can interact with Pyridium and make it less effective, or cause serious side effects.
Can Pyridium make my urine a reddish color?
Yes, Pyridium can make your urine appear reddish or discolored. This effect is harmless and can last for a couple of days after you stop taking the medication.
Can Pyridium cause high blood pressure?
No, Pyridium has not been proven to cause high blood pressure. However, it is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and speak to your doctor if you experience any changes.
Is Pyridium safe for children to take?
No, Pyridium is not recommended for children. If your child is suffering from a urinary tract infection or other urinary tract condition, speak to your doctor about the best treatment option.
Can Pyridium make me sleepy?
Yes, Pyridium can cause drowsiness as a side effect. It is important to not drive or operate machinery if you are feeling drowsy after taking Pyridium.
What other medications should I avoid while taking Pyridium?
You should avoid taking any other medications that contain phenazopyridine while taking Pyridium, as this can lead to an overdose and potentially dangerous side effects. You should also tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking to avoid any potential drug interactions.
Can I take Pyridium for more than 2 days?
No, Pyridium is intended for short-term relief of symptoms and should not be taken for more than 2 days. If your symptoms persist after two days, contact your doctor.
Can I take Pyridium if I have diabetes?
Yes, Pyridium is generally safe to take for people with diabetes. However, it is important to talk to your doctor about any medical conditions you have before taking Pyridium.
Can Pyridium be used to treat a bladder infection?
No, Pyridium is not an antibiotic and will not treat a bladder infection. It is an oral urinary analgesic and is used to relieve the pain, burning, and discomfort that can be associated with a bladder infection or other urinary tract condition.
Can women take Pyridium?
Yes, Pyridium is generally safe for women to take. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can I take Pyridium if I have a kidney condition?
Yes, it is usually safe to take Pyridium if you have a kidney condition. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you have any kidney problems before taking the medication.
When should I seek medical attention while taking Pyridium?
You should seek medical attention if you experience any serious side effects while taking Pyridium, such as a worsening of urinary symptoms, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
What other medications should not be taken with Pyridium?
You should avoid taking any medications containing phenazopyridine while taking Pyridium, as this can lead to an overdose and potentially dangerous side effects. You should also tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking to avoid any potential drug interactions.
Can Pyridium cause an allergic reaction?
Yes, Pyridium can cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.