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Over the Counter Medicine for Urinary Infections

Over the counter urinary tract infection medications have caught on due to a high number of people suffering from infections. Many offer treatment of the symptoms, sometimes allowing for the infection to clear up on its own. Others are effective in combating minor infections, for an overall cure for the infection.

  1. Identifying a UTI

    • A urinary tract infection (UTI) is noted by pain during urination accompanied by foul smelling or cloudy urine.

      UTI's are occasionally accompanied by pain in the back or lower abdomen, and a low grade fever.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Increasing the amount of water consumed can assist in shortening the duration of a UTI.

      For women, when using the restroom, it is important to wipe front to back to avoid contamination of the urethra with fecal matter. It is also imperative to change pads and tampons frequently during the menstrual cycle to prevent the buildup of bacteria.

    Cranberry

    • Cranberry juice has been used for treatment of urinary tract infections for a long time, and is available in capsule form. Cranberry raises the hippuric acid in the urine and can cure minor infections.

      6-8 ounces of cranberry juice, drank daily, can prevent the development of urinary tract infections.

    Over the Counter Pharmaceuticals

    • Over the counter drugs with phenazopyridine hydrochloride have proved to aid in helping the discomfort associated with urinary tract infections.

      Phenazopyridine hydrochloride pills often contain a dye that will stain the urine a dark red or orange color. Be cautious when handling pills as they may stain the hands and skin as well.

      Medicines containing phenazopyridine hydrochloride are marketed under different brand names. Uristat and Azo are two of the most popular on the market today.

    When to See a Doctor

    • Over the counter remedies may assist in providing comfort for the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, occasionally allowing for the acid content of the urine to raise and make the urinary tract inhospitable for bacteria.

      Urinary tract infections lasting more than two days should be treated with an antibiotic, available only through prescription.

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