What is Phenazopyridine: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Sep 2, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Phenazopyridine is a generic drug that relieves the burning, discomfort, urgency, and pain of urinary tract infections. Although it’s available in prescription and lower OTC strengths, people take roughly the same dose (about 200 mg) three times daily, no matter what version they’re using. Phenazopyridine should not be taken for longer than two days except under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Phenazopyridine overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • AZO, Cystex Max UTI Pain Relief, Maintain UTI 2-in-1, Phenazo, Pyridium (Rx), Uricalm Max, Uro-Pain, Uristat

Generic Names:

  • Phenazopyridine HCl

Uses:

  • Relieves symptoms caused by urinary tract infections

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Analgesic

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Phenazopyridine used for?

Phenazopyridine is a urinary analgesic that relieves painful urination, burning, urgency, and frequency associated with urinary tract infections.

What form(s) does Phenazopyridine come in

  • Tablet

    • 95 mg (OTC)

    • 97.5 mg (OTC)

    • 99.5 mg (OTC)

    • 100 mg (Rx)

    • 200 mg (Rx)

What are common Phenazopyridine doses?

  • For pain relief due to urinary tract infections: Two 100 mg Rx tablets, one 200 mg Rx tablet, or two OTC tablets (95 mg, 97.5 mg, 99.5 mg) taken three times daily

Common Phenazopyridine prescriptions

  • Phenazopyridine HCl
    30 tablets box

  • Phenazopyridine HCl
    100mg tablet

  • Phenazopyridine HCl
    200mg tablet

How to take Phenazopyridine

  • Follow all the healthcare provider’s instructions when taking phenazopyridine.

  • Follow the package instructions when taking OTC phenazopyridine.

  • Doses are taken three times daily.

  • Most people will take prescription or OTC phenazopyridine for no longer than two days.

  • Phenazopyridine can be taken with or without food.

    • To minimize stomach problems, take the tablets with or shortly after a meal.

  • Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water. Do not crush or chew.

  • Store phenazopyridine tablets at room temperature in a dry place protected from light.

What to do if you miss a dose of Phenazopyridine

  • Take a missed dose when remembered.

  • Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for the next regular dose.

  • Do not take two doses at the same time.

Phenazopyridine contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone.

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to phenazopyridine.

Phenazopyridine warnings

  • Do not use OTC phenazopyridine for longer than two days without talking to a healthcare provider.

  • Before using phenazopyridine, consult with a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have:

    • Kidney disease

    • Allergies to foods, preservatives, or dyes

    • A hereditary condition called G6PD deficiency

  • Stop using this medicine and contact a healthcare professional if:

    • Symptoms last for longer than two days

    • Your skin or eyes start turning yellow

    • You experience an allergic reaction to the drug

  • Phenazopyridine is a red-orange dye.

    • Urine may turn red or orange. This is normal.

    • Tears may also change color and permanently stain contact lenses, so you may not want to wear them while taking this medicine.

    • See a healthcare provider if skin or eyes change color (yellow).

Phenazopyridine interactions

  • Phenazopyridine has no known drug interactions.

  • Tell any healthcare provider treating you that you are taking phenazopyridine before they administer urine tests.

Phenazopyridine side effects

Serious side effects

Stop taking this medicine and contact a healthcare provider if you notice any signs of a possible serious side effect, including:

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes

  • Allergic reaction: skin rash, hives, itching, trouble breathing, low blood pressure, confusion, fatigue

Less serious side effects

  • Stomach upset

  • Headache

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