From the FDA Drug Label
The use of Phenazopyridine HCl for relief of symptoms should not delay definitive diagnosis and treatment of causative conditions. ... It is, however, compatible with antibacterial therapy and can help to relieve pain and discomfort during the interval before antibacterial therapy controls the infection The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
It is generally safe to take AZO (phenazopyridine) with cefdinir, as there are no well-documented significant interactions between these medications. AZO is an over-the-counter urinary analgesic that helps relieve urinary pain, burning, and urgency, while cefdinir is a prescription antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. While these medications work differently in the body and don't have known major interactions, individual factors in your medical history, other medications you're taking, or specific health conditions might affect this combination 1.
Key Considerations
- AZO only treats urinary symptoms and doesn't cure infections, so if you're taking cefdinir for a urinary tract infection, the AZO can help with discomfort while the antibiotic addresses the underlying infection.
- Remember that AZO turns urine orange or reddish, which is normal but can stain fabric.
- Always take both medications as directed, completing the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve.
- A study from 1 showed that phenazopyridine is an effective and well-tolerated drug for symptomatic therapy in patients with acute uncomplicated cystitis and can be recommended in addition to etiological therapy.
Potential Interactions and Side Effects
- Although there are no significant interactions between AZO and cefdinir, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking these medications together, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.
- The most common side effects of AZO include headache, dizziness, and stomach upset, while cefdinir can cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting 2.
- A study from 3 found that phenazopyridine can induce the expression of a soxS'::lacZ gene fusion, which may be related to antibiotic multi-resistance, but this is not a significant concern for most patients.