What is Methenamine Hippurate: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Methenamine Hippurate overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Hiprex

Generic Names:

  • Methenamine Hippurate

Uses:

  • Treats bladder and kidney infections.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antiseptic

Forms:

  • Tablet, Coated Tablet, Liquid, Granule

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Methenamine Hippurate used for?

What form(s) does Methenamine Hippurate come in

  • Tablet

  • Coated Tablet

  • Liquid

  • Granule

What are common Methenamine Hippurate doses?

  • Tablet 1GM

Common Methenamine Hippurate prescriptions

  • Methenamine Hippurate
    1gm tablet

How to take Methenamine Hippurate

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.

  • Drink plenty of water or cranberry juice every day while you are using this medicine.

  • Keep using this medicine for the full time treatment time. If you stop using this medicine too soon, your infection may come back.

  • Swallow the tablet or coated tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break it.

  • Measure the oral liquid with a measuring spoon or dropper. Shake the bottle before using. Take with a full glass of water or with food.

  • Empty the granules into a full glass of water and let them dissolve before you drink the mixture.

  • Empty the granules into a full glass of water and let them dissolve before you drink the mixture.

  • Measure the oral liquid with a measuring spoon or dropper. Shake the bottle before using. Take with a full glass of water or with food.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.

  • Drink plenty of water or cranberry juice every day while you are using this medicine.

  • Keep using this medicine for the full time treatment time. If you stop using this medicine too soon, your infection may come back.

  • Swallow the tablet or coated tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break it.

What to do if you miss a dose of Methenamine Hippurate

  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

  • Take the missed dose as soon as possible.

  • If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.

Methenamine Hippurate contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to methenamine or tartrazine.

Methenamine Hippurate warnings

  • Check with your doctor before using this medicine if you have liver or kidney problems, severe dehydration, or other medical problems.

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine

Methenamine Hippurate interactions

  • This medicine works best in acidic urine. Drinking cranberry juice will help keep urine acidic. Avoid foods that lower the acid in your urine, such as nuts or milk and other dairy products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a sulfa drug (such as Bactrim® or Septra®).

  • It is best to avoid using antacids (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) while taking methenamine.

Methenamine Hippurate side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Severe itching or rash

  • Hives

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild nausea or upset stomach

  • Pain when going to the bathroom (urinating)

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