question

[hazellin31]

Hi, I wasn't sure where to put this so I just am writing it here. My question is about Pyriduim. I have been reading that Pyridium is not good to take long term because of the effects it has on your liver (or kidney I forget). I wish I could take this everyday because it helps so much. I've also been reading about Pyridium Plus. What is the difference between the two? Also, I do take Uristat once and awhile which sometimes is a Godsend! How often can I take that and not have to worry about its effects?

[sunshine_77us]

I take Pyidum Plus several times during the month. I have taken it 2 weeks straight, then miss a week. I just have bloodwork and have liver checked which has always been fine. It helps me a lot. The pyridum plus has a little pain medication plus numbs the bladder. I hope this helps

[kelly McC]

Pyridium plus helps me I believe it has a anti spasm blocker in it.
Kelly

[Sarojini]

Pyridium Plus contains phenazopyridine (red-orange dye) like the regular Pyridium, but it also contains hyoscyamine, which is an antispasmodic, and butalbarbital, which is a light pain reliever. It just has a little extra "oomph" to it, and I find it works a little better than the reg. stuff. You may want to give it a try.

The part that's not good for your liver and kidneys, unfortunately, is the dye -- however, if your doctor is willing to check your liver and kidney function periodically you can take it pretty often. In fact, my doctor told me a story of a patient she has who took it long enough and often enough that her skin turned orange -- but her liver and kidneys were fine. Now, I'm not advising you do that without a doctor's okay and supervision, but it is possible for some to take it longer term as long as they are monitored. Ask your doctor what the pros and cons are.

In addition, there are other meds, like Urised, Urelle, Urimax, and Prosed that can help... these will turn your urine blue instead of red-orange and may be a bit gentler on your system. This is another option to discuss with your physician.

Good luck :)