From the Guidelines
Urine can turn orange due to certain medications, such as rifampin, which is a rifamycin derivative that colors body fluids, including urine, orange. This is because rifampin is excreted in urine, tears, sweat, and other body fluids, causing discoloration 1. Other possible causes of orange urine include dehydration, certain foods, and medical conditions. Dehydration can cause concentrated urine to appear darker and more orange. Foods with strong pigments like carrots, beets, and rhubarb may also affect urine color. Medical conditions such as liver problems, bile duct issues, or urinary tract infections can cause orange urine due to bilirubin in the urine or the presence of blood.
- Key points to consider when evaluating orange urine include:
- Medication use, particularly rifampin, which is known to cause orange discoloration of body fluids 1
- Hydration status, as dehydration can concentrate urine and make it appear more orange
- Dietary factors, such as consumption of foods with strong pigments
- Underlying medical conditions, such as liver or urinary tract problems To address orange urine, it is essential to increase fluid intake to 6-8 glasses of water daily, unless contraindicated by a doctor, and consult a healthcare provider if the color persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, fever, or unusual fatigue.
From the FDA Drug Label
The patient should be told that rifampin may produce a discoloration (yellow, orange, red, brown) of the teeth, urine, sweat, sputum, and tears, and the patient should be forewarned of this. Brownish-red or orange discoloration of the skin, urine, sweat, saliva, tears, and feces will occur, and its intensity is proportional to the amount ingested.
Rifampicin can cause urine to turn orange. This is a known side effect of the medication, and patients should be warned about this possible discoloration. The intensity of the discoloration is proportional to the amount of rifampicin ingested 2, 2.
- Key points:
- Rifampicin may produce a discoloration of urine
- The discoloration can be yellow, orange, red, or brown
- The intensity of the discoloration is proportional to the amount ingested
From the Research
Causes of Orange Urine
- Certain medications, such as rifampicin, can cause urine to turn orange due to their chemical composition and the way they are metabolized by the body 3, 4, 5, 6
- Food consumption, particularly foods that are high in carotenoids, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, can also cause urine to turn orange 3
- Inadequate hydration and certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, can also affect the color of urine 3, 4, 5
- The use of certain dietary supplements and drugs can also alter the color of urine 3
Medical Conditions and Urine Color
- Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, can cause changes in urine color due to the buildup of bilirubin in the body 4, 5, 6
- Kidney disease can also affect the color of urine, as well as its clarity and odor 3, 7
- Certain medications, such as rifampicin, can cause liver function test elevations and affect the color of urine 4, 5, 6
Importance of Urine Analysis
- Urine analysis is an important diagnostic tool for detecting various medical conditions, including kidney and liver disease 3, 7
- Proper urine sample collection and analysis are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment 3
- Pharmacists and healthcare professionals play a crucial role in interpreting urine analysis results and providing guidance to patients 3