Methenamine

pronunciation

pronounced as (meth en' a meen)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Methenamine, an antibiotic, eliminates bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. It usually is used on a long-term basis to treat chronic infections and to prevent recurrence of infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.


How should this medicine be used?

Methenamine comes as a tablet and a liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken either two times a day (every 12 hours) or four times a day (after meals and at bedtime). Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take methenamine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Swallow the coated tablets whole. Do not crush or break them. Take the tablets with a full glass of water or with food. Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the drug evenly.


What are the precautions to be followed?

Before taking methenamine,
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to methenamine, aspirin, tartrazine (a yellow dye in some processed foods and drugs), or any other drugs.
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially antacids, sulfamethizole, diuretics ('water pills'), and vitamins.
  • tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease.
  • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking methenamine, call your doctor.

What are possible side effects of this medication ?

Methenamine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
  • upset stomach
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • stomach cramps
  • loss of appetite
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
  • skin rash
  • hives
  • itching (allergic reaction)


How to store the medication and dispose it of after its use later?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.


Drug Category/Class

Methenamine has 3 Brands listed


Mandalamine (1 gm)Mandalamine (500 mg)
Mandelamine (0.5 mg)

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