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Over The Counter Uti Medicine That Turns Your Pee Orange

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections that affect millions of people each year. They occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause symptoms such as pain and burning during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. While antibiotics are the most common treatment for UTIs, over-the-counter (OTC) UTI medications are available to help alleviate symptoms. One such medication is phenazopyridine, which can turn your pee orange.

What is Phenazopyridine?

Phenazopyridine is an OTC medication that is used to relieve the symptoms of UTIs, such as pain and burning during urination. It works by numbing the urinary tract, which helps to reduce pain and discomfort. Phenazopyridine is not an antibiotic and does not cure UTIs, but it can provide temporary relief while waiting for antibiotics to take effect.

Phenazopyridine is available under various brand names, such as Azo and Pyridium, and is sold in tablet form. It is important to note that phenazopyridine should not be used for more than two days, as it can mask the symptoms of a more serious underlying condition, such as a kidney infection.

Phenazopyridine

How Does Phenazopyridine Turn Your Pee Orange?

One of the most common side effects of phenazopyridine is orange urine. This can be alarming for some people, but it is a normal and harmless side effect. Phenazopyridine contains a chemical called azo, which is responsible for turning urine orange. Azo is excreted through the kidneys and colors the urine as it passes through the urinary tract. The intensity of the orange color can vary, depending on the amount of phenazopyridine consumed and how much urine is produced.

It is important to note that while orange urine is a common side effect of phenazopyridine, it can also be a symptom of other underlying conditions, such as liver problems or dehydration. If you experience orange urine and are not taking phenazopyridine, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

Other Side Effects of Phenazopyridine

While orange urine is the most common side effect of phenazopyridine, there are other side effects that can occur. These include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Stomach upset
  • Itching and rash
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Fever or chills
  • Confusion or hallucinations (in rare cases)

If you experience any of these side effects while taking phenazopyridine, it is important to stop taking the medication and speak with a healthcare provider.

When to See a Healthcare Provider for a UTI

While OTC UTI medications like phenazopyridine can provide temporary relief for UTI symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare provider if you suspect you have a UTI. UTIs can lead to more serious complications if left untreated, such as kidney damage or sepsis.

You should see a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Frequent urination
  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
  • Pain in the lower abdomen or back
  • Fever or chills
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Difficulty urinating

A healthcare provider will typically prescribe antibiotics to treat a UTI. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms improve, to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated.

Conclusion

Phenazopyridine is an OTC medication that can provide temporary relief for UTI symptoms, but it is important to see a healthcare provider if you suspect you have a UTI. While orange urine is a common side effect of phenazopyridine, it can also be a symptom of other underlying conditions. If you experience orange urine and are not taking phenazopyridine, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider. Remember to take the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated.

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