Methenamine Hippurate

Generic Name: methenamine hippurate

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Methenamine Hippurate

DESCRIPTION Each white to off-white capsule shaped tablet contains 1g Methenamine Hippurate, USP which is the Hippuric Acid Salt of Methenamine (hexamethylene tetramine). The tablet also contains inactive ingredients colloidal silicon dioxide, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, povidone and sodium starch glycolate.

Overview

DESCRIPTION Each white to off-white capsule shaped tablet contains 1g Methenamine Hippurate, USP which is the Hippuric Acid Salt of Methenamine (hexamethylene tetramine). The tablet also contains inactive ingredients colloidal silicon dioxide, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, povidone and sodium starch glycolate.

Uses

INDICATIONS Methenamine hippurate tablets, USP is indicated for prophylactic or suppressive treatment of frequently recurring urinary tract infections when long-term therapy is considered necessary. This drug should only be used after eradication of the infection by other appropriate antimicrobial agents. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of methenamine hippurate tablets, USP and other antibacterial drugs, methenamine hippurate tablets, USP should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy.

Dosage

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION 1 tablet (1.0 g) twice daily (morning and night) for adults and pediatric patients over 12 years of age. 1/2 to 1 tablet (0.5 to 1 g) twice daily (morning and night) for pediatric patients 6 to 12 years of age. Since the antibacterial activity of methenamine hippurate tablets, USP is greater in acid urine, restriction of alkalinizing foods and medications is desirable. If necessary, as indicated by urinary pH and clinical response, supplemental acidification of the urine should be instituted. The efficacy of therapy should be monitored by repeated urine cultures.

Side Effects

ADVERSE REACTIONS Minor adverse reactions have been reported in less than 3.5% of patients treated. These reactions have included nausea, upset stomach, dysuria, and rash. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Jubilant Cadista Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-800-313-4623 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Warnings

WARNING Large doses of methenamine (8 grams daily for 3 to 4 weeks) have caused bladder irritation, painful and frequent micturition, albuminuria, and gross hematuria. CONTRAINDICATIONS Methenamine hippurate tablets are contraindicated in patients with renal insufficiency, severe hepatic insufficiency, or severe dehydration. Methenamine preparations should not be given to patients taking sulfonamides because some sulfonamides may form an insoluble precipitate with formaldehyde in the urine.

Storage

HOW SUPPLIED Methenamine Hippurate Tablets USP, 1 g are white to off-white capsule shaped tablet, debossed with “L” and “59” on one side and break line (functional) on other side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Methenamine Hippurate used for?

INDICATIONS Methenamine hippurate tablets, USP is indicated for prophylactic or suppressive treatment of frequently recurring urinary tract infections when long-term therapy is considered necessary. This drug should only be used after eradication of the infection by other appropriate antimicrobial agents. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of methenamine hippurate tablets, USP and other antibacterial drugs, methenamine hippurate tablets, USP should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy.

What are the side effects of Methenamine Hippurate?

ADVERSE REACTIONS Minor adverse reactions have been reported in less than 3.5% of patients treated. These reactions have included nausea, upset stomach, dysuria, and rash. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Jubilant Cadista Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-800-313-4623 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What are the important warnings for Methenamine Hippurate?

WARNING Large doses of methenamine (8 grams daily for 3 to 4 weeks) have caused bladder irritation, painful and frequent micturition, albuminuria, and gross hematuria. CONTRAINDICATIONS Methenamine hippurate tablets are contraindicated in patients with renal insufficiency, severe hepatic insufficiency, or severe dehydration. Methenamine preparations should not be given to patients taking sulfonamides because some sulfonamides may form an insoluble precipitate with formaldehyde in the urine.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.