From the FDA Drug Label
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Phenazopyridine HCl is indicated for the symptomatic relief of pain, burning, urgency, frequency, and other discomforts arising from irritation of the lower urinary tract mucosa caused by infection, trauma, surgery, endoscopic procedures, or the passage of sounds or catheters The use of Phenazopyridine HCl for relief of symptoms should not delay definitive diagnosis and treatment of causative conditions.
- Phenazopyridine HCl is used for symptomatic relief of urinary tract discomfort in men, but it does not treat the underlying cause of the discomfort.
- The medication should be discontinued when symptoms are controlled, and treatment should not exceed 2 days when used with antibacterial therapy 1.
- Phenazopyridine HCl provides topical analgesic effect on the mucosa of the urinary tract, relieving pain, burning, urgency, and frequency 1.
From the Research
Pyridium (phenazopyridine) is an appropriate medication for men experiencing urinary pain or discomfort, with a recommended dosage of 200 mg taken orally three times daily after meals for no more than two days when used alongside antibiotics for urinary tract infections. This recommendation is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which demonstrated the efficacy and safety of phenazopyridine in treating acute uncomplicated cystitis 2. The study found that phenazopyridine provided significant relief from pain, dysuria, and discomfort, with a more rapid resolution of symptoms compared to the control group.
Key Points to Consider
- Men should be aware that Pyridium is not an antibiotic and doesn't treat the infection itself; it only relieves symptoms while antibiotics address the underlying cause.
- Common side effects include harmless orange-red discoloration of urine, which can stain clothing, and possible staining of contact lenses.
- Men with kidney disease should use caution and consult their doctor before taking this medication, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
- Pyridium works by directly soothing the urinary tract lining through its local anesthetic effect, providing relief from pain, burning, urgency, and frequency while the primary condition is being treated.
Supporting Evidence
The study published in 2021 2 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence for the use of phenazopyridine in treating acute uncomplicated cystitis. The study demonstrated the efficacy and safety of phenazopyridine, with a significant reduction in symptoms and improvement in quality of life. While other studies, such as those published in 2020 3 and 2016 4, provide additional evidence for the use of phenazopyridine, the 2021 study is the most recent and highest quality, and therefore takes precedence in guiding clinical decision-making.