About Pyridium

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Pyridium.

The medication pyridium is usually prescribed by a doctor to treat the symptoms associated with a urinary tract infection. This medication is not used to treat the actual infection; a doctor must prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection. Symptoms that are eased by the use of pyridium include burning, pain, an increased urge to urinate and more frequent urination.

Always take this and all medicines as prescribed by a doctor. Typically, pyridium is taken three times per day for two days. Do not take pyridium for more than two days unless instructed by a doctor to do so. In order to avoid an upset stomach, take this medication with food. Always drink a full glass of water with each dose.

This medication may cause soft contact lenses to become stained. Contacts should not be worn while taking pyridium. Be sure to tell the doctor if the patient has a history of liver disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or a G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) deficiency. Pyridium is not thought to be harmful to an unborn fetus or baby. No research has been done to determine if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. Be sure to advise the doctor if pregnant or nursing before starting treatment with this medication.

Darkening of the urine to a red or orange color is possible while taking pyridium. This is a normal side effect and is not an issue unless it occurs in conjunction with more serious side effects. If serious side effects like weakness, pale skin, confusion, jaundice, drowsiness, vomiting, swelling, mood changes or weight gain occur, stop using this medicine and contact a doctor. Certain less serious side effects associated with pyridium are stomach pain or upset, dizziness, headache, and itchy skin. Be sure to tell a doctor if any other unusual side effects occur while taking this medication.