Phenazopyridine Hydrochloride

Pronunciation: fen-AZZ-oh-PIH-rih-deen HIGH-droe-KLOR-ide
Class: Interstitial cystitis agent

Trade Names

Azo-Gesic
- Tablets 95 mg

Azo-Septic
- Tablets 95 mg

Azo-Standard
- Tablets 95 mg

Baridium
- Tablets 97 mg

Pyridium
- Tablets 100 mg
- Tablets 200 mg

Pharmacology

Exerts topical analgesic effect on urinary tract mucosa.

Slideshow: Can Prescription Drugs Lead to Weight Gain?

Pharmacokinetics

Metabolism

Phenazopyridine metabolism is probably hepatic; also in other body tissues. One active metabolite is acetaminophen.

Elimination

Phenazopyridine is rapidly excreted by the kidneys, 65% as unchanged drug and metabolites.

Indications and Usage

Symptomatic relief of pain, burning, urgency, frequency, and other discomforts arising from irritation of lower urinary tract mucosa.

Contraindications

Renal insufficiency.

Dosage and Administration

PO 200 mg 3 times daily.

PO 12 mg/kg/24 h divided into 3 doses for 2 days.

General Advice

• Administer after meals to avoid GI irritation.
• Do not crush tablets or make into a suspension.

Storage/Stability

Store at controlled room temperature (59° to 86°F).

Drug Interactions

None well documented.

Laboratory Test Interactions

Possible interference with colorimetric lab test procedures and urinalysis based on spectrometry or color reactions.

Adverse Reactions

CNS

Headache.

Dermatologic

Rash; pruritus.

GI

Occasional GI disturbances.

Genitourinary

Renal toxicity.

Hematologic

Methemoglobinemia; hemolytic anemia.

Hepatic

Hepatotoxicity.

Miscellaneous

Anaphylactoid reaction.

Precautions

Pregnancy

Category B .

Lactation

Unknown.

Renal Function

May lead to accumulation, indicated by yellow tinge to skin and sclera.

Overdosage

Symptoms

Methemoglobinemia, hemolytic anemia, hemolysis, renal and hepatic function impairment and failure.

Patient Information

• Inform patient that this drug should not be taken long term for undiagnosed urinary tract pain.
• Advise patient to take drug after meals to avoid GI upset.
• Inform patient that urine may temporarily become reddish-orange in color and may stain fabric.
• Advise patient to wear glasses instead of contact lenses while taking this drug; contact lenses may become discolored.
• Inform patients with diabetes of possible interference with urine glucose test results.
• Instruct patient not to crush or chew tablets. Permanent teeth discoloration may occur.
• Instruct patient that if skin or sclera become yellowish in color, to discontinue drug and notify health care provider.
• Instruct patient to notify health care provider if headache, rash, pruritus, upset stomach, dizziness, or difficulty breathing occurs.

Copyright © 2009 Wolters Kluwer Health.