From the Research
Yes, there is a blue methenamine tablet with a smooth coating called Hiprex (methenamine hippurate). This medication is typically available as a blue, film-coated tablet containing 1 gram (1000 mg) of methenamine hippurate 1. Hiprex is commonly prescribed to prevent or control recurring urinary tract infections by working as a urinary antiseptic. The typical dosage for adults is one 1-gram tablet twice daily, usually taken morning and evening with meals and a full glass of water. For children over 6 years old, the dosage is typically adjusted based on weight. The smooth coating on the tablet helps make it easier to swallow and masks the medication's bitter taste. Methenamine works by converting to formaldehyde in acidic urine, which kills bacteria; therefore, it's essential to maintain acidic urine while taking this medication, which may require limiting consumption of alkaline foods and beverages. Some patients may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, or bladder irritation when taking this medication. Key points to consider when prescribing methenamine hippurate include:
- The medication's effectiveness in preventing UTIs, particularly in patients without renal tract abnormalities 2, 3
- The importance of maintaining acidic urine to ensure the medication's efficacy 4
- The potential for mild side effects, such as stomach upset or bladder irritation 1
- The need for further research to clarify the medication's benefits and harms, particularly for long-term use 5, 2, 3