Methenamine Description

Generic Name : METHENAMINE

Pronunciation : (meth en' a meen)

Trade Name(s) : Mandalamine

Why it is prescribed: Methenamine eliminates bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. It is usually used on a long-term basis to treat chronic infections and to prevent recurrence of infections.

When it is to be taken: Methenamine is usually taken either two times a day for every 12 hours or four times a day after meals and at bedtime.

How it should be taken:
1. Methenamine comes in the form of regular tablets, coated tablets, granules, and oral liquid.
2. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose.
3. The granules should be dissolved in two to four ounces of water. Stir the mixture well and take it immediately. To get the full dose, rinse the glass with more water and drink it.
4. Take the tablets with a full glass of water or with food.
5. Swallow the coated tablets whole. Do not crush them.
6. Shake the liquid bottle well before each use to mix the medication evenly. You may obtain a specially marked measuring spoon to be sure of an accurate dose.

Special Instruction :
1. Take all of the Methenamine prescribed, even if you begin to feel better. Symptoms of the infection may disappear before the infection is cured.
2. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory so that your doctor can determine when you may stop taking this medication.
3. If you have taken all of the medication prescribed and still have symptoms, contact your doctor.
4. Methenamine works best when your urine is acidic. Your doctor may instruct you to follow a special diet and to test your urine with special paper.
5. Do not take antacids while taking this drug.
6. If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals.

Side Effects :
1. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, loss of appetite. Take Methenamine with meals or a snack. If these effects continue or are severe, contact your doctor.
2. Skin rash, hives, itching. Contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions :
1. Tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially antacids and sulfamethizole.
2. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to aspirin or tartrazine, a yellow dye present in some processed foods and medications, including certain forms of Methenamine.
3. Before taking Methenamine, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems.
4. If your doctor tells you to stop taking Methenamine, throw away any unused medication.
5. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.
2. Store it at room temperature, away from excess heat.

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