Class: Urinary Tract Analgesic
Dosage Forms. Oral Tablet: 95 mg, 97.2 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg
Common FDA Label Indication, Dosing, and Titration.
1. Dysuria (pain, burning, and other discomforts of the lower urinary tract caused by infection, trauma, surgery, endoscopic procedures, or the passage of catheters): 100-200 mg po tid after meals; should not be used for more than 2 d when administered in conjunction with an antibiotic
Off-Label Uses. None
MOA. Phenazopyridine is excreted in the urine where it exerts a topical analgesic effect on the mucosa of the urinary tract. This action helps to relieve pain, burning, urgency, and frequency. The precise mechanism of action is not known.
Drug Characteristics: Phenazopyridine
Medication Safety Issues: Phenazopyridine
Drug Interactions: Phenazopyridine. None known
Adverse Reactions: Phenazopyridine
Efficacy Monitoring Parameters. Resolution of clinical symptoms of dysuria (painful urination).
Toxicity Monitoring Parameters. Signs of hemolytic anemia, hepatotoxicity, or nephrotoxicity occur.
Key Patient Counseling Points. Drug may discolor urine and sclera to red or orange, causing staining of undergarments and contact lenses. Patient should take drug with food to minimize gastric irritation.
Clinical Pearls. When used in the treatment of a urinary tract infection, phenazopyridine should not exceed 2 d because there is a lack of evidence that the combined administration of phenazopyridine and an antibacterial provides greater benefit than administration of the antibacterial alone after 2 d. Many OTC products containing phenazopyridine are also available.