Fitzpatrick asked
I was prescribed Pyridum to help with the pain of a urinary tract infection. I was wondering if it was safe to take with Benadryl.
Answer
Pyridium (phenazopyridine) and Benadryl (diphenhydramine) do not have any known drug interactions. They are safe to take together.
Phenazopyridine
Phenazopyridine is used to relieve pain from urination in patients who have inflammation in their urinary tract. It is available by prescription (brand name Pyridium) and over the counter (brand name Azo) in a lower dose.
It works by exerting a local anesthetic effect to the urinary tract. It is often used in conjunction with an antibiotic for treatment for those patients who have been diagnosed with a bladder infection. This medication does not have any antibiotic properties alone.
Headache, dizziness, and stomach upset are the most commonly seen side effects with this medication. It can also turn the patient’s urine orange, and they should be warned of this prior to administration so they are not alarmed if they see this change occur
Benadryl
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a "first-generation" antihistamine and is used to treat allergic reactions and is also commonly used as a sleep aid for patients who have difficulty falling asleep.
Sedation and drowsiness are the side effects that are most often seen in patients when they take this medication. Other side effects include constipation, urinary retention, and blurred vision.
