Phenazopyridine hydrochloride

Overview

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is a medication primarily used to relieve urinary tract pain, burning, irritation, and discomfort. It is a urinary tract analgesic that acts as a local anesthetic on the mucosa of the urinary tract.

Chemical Composition

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C₁₁H₁₁N₅·HCl. It is a reddish-brown powder that is soluble in water.

Mechanism of Action

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride works by exerting a topical analgesic effect on the mucosa of the urinary tract. It is believed to act as a local anesthetic, providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other urinary conditions.

Indications

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is indicated for the symptomatic relief of pain, burning, urgency, frequency, and other discomforts arising from irritation of the lower urinary tract mucosa. This irritation may be caused by infection, trauma, surgery, endoscopic procedures, or the passage of catheters or sounds.

Dosage and Administration

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is typically administered orally. The usual adult dose is 200 mg three times a day after meals. It is recommended to be used for short-term relief, generally not exceeding two days, when used concomitantly with an antibacterial agent for the treatment of a UTI.

Side Effects

Common side effects of phenazopyridine hydrochloride include headache, dizziness, and stomach cramps. It may also cause a reddish-orange discoloration of the urine, which is not harmful but can stain clothing. Rarely, it can cause serious side effects such as methemoglobinemia, hemolytic anemia, and renal or hepatic toxicity.

Contraindications

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug, renal insufficiency, or severe liver disease. It should be used with caution in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency due to the risk of hemolytic anemia.

Drug Interactions

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride may interact with other medications, although specific interactions are not well-documented. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Precautions

Patients should be advised that phenazopyridine hydrochloride is not an antibacterial agent and should not be used as a substitute for appropriate antibacterial therapy. It is important to complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics even if symptoms improve.

Pregnancy and Lactation

The safety of phenazopyridine hydrochloride during pregnancy and lactation has not been fully established. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers.

Overdose

In case of overdose, symptoms may include cyanosis, jaundice, and renal failure. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Immediate medical attention is required.

Storage

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It should be kept out of reach of children.

See Also

• Urinary tract infection
• Analgesic
• Local anesthetic

External Links

• [FDA Drug Information on Phenazopyridine]
• [MedlinePlus Drug Information]

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number	94-78-0
PubChem	4756
DrugBank	DB01438
ChemSpider	4592
KEGG	D08345