Urinary Pain Relief: OTC Options for UTI Symptoms
Urinary tract infections (UTIs), including bladder infections, can cause burning or pain during urination, frequent or urgent urination, and discomfort in the lower abdomen. In the United States, over-the-counter products containing phenazopyridine are available to help relieve these urinary symptoms.
Phenazopyridine can reduce pain, burning, urgency, and frequency, but it does not treat the underlying infection. Bacterial bladder infections often require antibiotics, so symptom relief should not delay appropriate medical evaluation or treatment.
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What is phenazopyridine?
Phenazopyridine is a urinary tract pain reliever available over the counter in the U.S. under several brand names and as a generic medication. It is used for temporary relief of urinary pain, burning, urgency, and frequency associated with irritation of the urinary tract.
Phenazopyridine only relieves symptoms. It does not kill bacteria or cure a UTI and should not be used as a substitute for antibiotics or other treatment when an infection is present.
How do I take it?
Follow the directions on the specific product label. OTC phenazopyridine products are available in different strengths, so dosing may vary between products.
When used for symptoms associated with a UTI, phenazopyridine should not be used for more than 2 days unless a healthcare professional tells you otherwise.
Taking it with or after food may help reduce stomach upset.
If your symptoms continue, worsen, or return after treatment, contact a healthcare professional. Bladder infections can spread to the kidneys if they are not treated appropriately.
How does it work?
Phenazopyridine is excreted into the urine, where it has a local pain-relieving effect on the lining of the urinary tract. This can reduce symptoms such as burning, pain, urgency, and frequent urination.
It does not treat the cause of the irritation or infection. If you have a bacterial bladder infection, a healthcare professional may prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection.
Who should use caution?
Do not take phenazopyridine if you are allergic to it or any ingredient in the product.
Talk with a healthcare professional before using it if you:
- have Chronic Kidney Disease
- have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
- are pregnant or breastfeeding
- take prescription medications or have other significant medical conditions
Contact a healthcare professional if you have symptoms of a possible bladder infection, particularly if symptoms are persistent or worsening.
Seek prompt medical care if you develop fever or chills, nausea or vomiting, or pain in your back, side, or groin. These can be signs that an infection has spread to the kidneys.
Are there any side effects?
Phenazopyridine commonly turns urine reddish-orange. This is expected and is not usually harmful, but the color can stain clothing and may discolor contact lenses.
Stomach upset can also occur. Taking the medication with food may help.
Stop taking phenazopyridine and contact a healthcare professional if you develop unexpected or severe symptoms.
Remember that improvement in pain or burning does not necessarily mean an infection has gone away. Phenazopyridine can make you feel better while the underlying cause still needs treatment.
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