Phenazopyridine

Phenazopyridine, also known as Pyridium, is a urinary tract analgesic used for the short-term management of urinary tract irritation and its associated unpleasant symptoms such as burning and pain during urination. In the USA, this drug was previously marked by Roche but has been discontinued by the FDA. It is still used in various parts of the world. Ingestion of phenazopyridine is found to change the appearance of the urine by imparting an orange or red color, as it is considered an azo dye.

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is indicated to relieve uncomfortable symptoms that occur as a consequence of mucosal irritation of the lower urinary tract in adults. The irritation may be a result of trauma, surgery, endoscopic procedures, infection, or the insertion of instruments or urinary catheters. Phenazopyridine may be used in combination with antimicrobial therapy but is not used as an antimicrobial agent. It contributes to the relief of discomfort and pain before antimicrobial therapy begins to take effect. It is important to note that the duration of treatment with this drug should last a maximum of 2 days. Phenazopyridine is available in many countries as an over the counter drug.