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Phenazopyridine

Brand names: Pyridium, Azo Urinary Pain Relief

Phenazopyridine numbs the bladder to relieve burning and urgency from a UTI. It doesn't treat the infection.

Brand namesPyridium, Azo Urinary Pain Relief
Type of medicineUrinary pain reliever
Prescription?Over the counter (lower strength) and prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It turns urine bright orange. It's used for only 2 days.

What it's used for

  • Burning, pain, and urgency with urinary tract infections

How to take it

  • Take it after meals for no more than 2 days.
  • See a provider for antibiotics; it doesn't cure a UTI.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Orange-red urine (harmless, stains clothes and contact lenses)
  • Headache
  • Upset stomach
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes
Call your provider todayPeeing much less
Call your provider todayBluish skin or shortness of breath (rare blood reaction)
Call your provider todayFever, back pain, or vomiting (possible kidney infection)

Warnings

  • Not for people with kidney disease or G6PD deficiency.
  • It can affect urine test strips.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Few interactions.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.