Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes Pyridium (Phenazopyridine). If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking Pyridium (Phenazopyridine). Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• dizziness
• headache
• indigestion
• itching of the skin
• orange or red colour of the urine or feces
• staining of contact lenses (orange or red)
• stomach cramps or pain

Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• blue or blue-purple colour of skin
• Fever and confusion
• skin rash
• sudden decrease in the amount of urine
• swelling of face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• weight gain

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• shortness of breath, tightness in chest, wheezing, or troubled breathing
• yellow eyes or skin

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking Pyridium (Phenazopyridine).

Do not take Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) if you:

• are allergic to Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) or any ingredients of the medication
• have reduced kidney function
• have liver disease

There may be an interaction between Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) and ciprofloxacin.

If you are taking ciprofloxacin, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with Pyridium (Phenazopyridine). Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the Nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

Before you begin taking a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should take Pyridium (Phenazopyridine).

Discoloration of body fluids: Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) produces an orange-to-red colour in the urine and feces, and may cause staining. Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) may cause discoloration of other body fluids and staining of contact lenses has been reported.

If the medication has been broken or held in the mouth before swallowing, it may cause tooth discoloration. If your skin or eyes turn a yellowish colour, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately.

Laboratory tests: Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) may interfere with certain laboratory tests. If you are having lab tests done, make sure your doctor knows that you take Pyridium (Phenazopyridine).

Length of treatment: Take Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) for only 2 days. If symptoms persist beyond 2 days, contact your doctor.

Medical conditions: If you have an inherited condition called G-6-PD deficiency, discuss with your doctor how Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Pyridium (Phenazopyridine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Pregnancy: Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Pyridium (Phenazopyridine), contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: It is not known if Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Pyridium (Phenazopyridine), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) have not been established for children.

Seniors: The safety and effectiveness of using Pyridium (Phenazopyridine) have not been established for seniors.