Pyridium (phenazopyridine) is a medication used to relieve the pain of a urinary tract infection, injury or urinary tract irritation. According to MedlinePlus, Pyridium is not an antibiotic medication that destroys bacteria and subsequently cures infection. Pyridium is available as a tablet that should be taken as your doctor prescribes.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Pyridium typically causes itchy skin, headache, dizziness, stomach pain or indigestion. Skin itching can be a sign of an allergic response to Pyridium as histamine is released from mast cells (histamine-containing cells found throughout your body). Stomach pain and indigestion occur when Pyridium irritates your gastrointestinal lining. Pyridium will also make your urine turn a red-orange color. Although these symptoms are not life threatening, inform your doctor if they remain for more than two days.
Serious Side Effects
Pyridium can cause an eclectic array of serious side effects. According to MedlinePlus, Pyridium can cause jaundice (yellowing of the white parts of your eyes and skin), shortness of breath and decreased urination. Jaundice is typically an indication of liver destruction. Decreased urination can lead to dehydration and acute renal failure. Pyridium can also cause confusion, skin bruising and swelling of the face, fingers or legs. Call your doctor if Pyridium causes these side effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Pyridium if you are hypersensitive to phenazopyridine. An allergic reaction consists of trouble breathing, swelling of the face, tongue or throat and hives. Get medical help immediately if any of these effects occur.
Inform your physician if you have diabetes, liver disease or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Your doctor may have to adjust Pyridium's dosage or you may not be able to take this medication at all because it may lead to the aforementioned side effects.
It is unknown whether Pyridium can affect the baby during pregnancy or contaminate breast milk. It is important to tell your doctor if you decide to breastfeed or become pregnant.
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