Methenamine Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (meth-EN-uh-meen)
Methenamine Oral Uses
This medication is used only to prevent or control returning bladder (urinary tract) infections caused by certain bacteria. Depending on your infection, this medication may also be used with other medications. Methenamine should be used only after usual antibiotics have been used to cure the infection first. Methenamine belongs to a class of drugs known as antibacterials. It works by killing the bacteria in the urinary tract. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
How To Use Methenamine Oral
Take this medication by mouth, usually twice daily (morning and night) or as directed by your doctor.
Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
It is very important to continue taking this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of this drug than prescribed or stop taking it even for a short time unless directed to do so by your doctor. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your doctor may cause the bacterial infection to return, make the bacteria more difficult to treat (resistant), or worsen side effects.
Tell your doctor if symptoms of a urinary tract infection return (e.g., burning, urge to urinate frequently).
