Hiprex (Methenamine Hippurate) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Hiprex Uses 

Hiprex, with the generic name methenamine hippurate, is an oral medication indicated as a prophylactic or suppressive treatment for frequently recurring urinary tract infections (UTI) if long-term treatment is necessary. This drug should be given after the eradication of bacterial infection using other antimicrobial agents. To maintain the efficacy of this drug and to avoid the development of drug-resistant bacteria, this medication should only be used to prevent or treat infections that are proven to be caused by susceptible bacteria. 

This is available in Hiprex 1 gram scored tablets. 

Hiprex Mechanism of Action 

This urinary anti-infective medicine has anti-microbial properties in a more acidic environment. Methenamine is then hydrolyzed into formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a natural organic compound that is considered to be bactericidal. Its antibacterial activity works by denaturing the protein component and nucleic acid of the bacteria.  

How to use 

To begin, read the Hiprex guide or information leaflet that comes with this product. Do not use any anti-infective medication if you have not yet fully understood the drug information and warnings written in the guide. If you have further inquiries regarding your course of treatment or need more medical advice on your condition, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

Take the tablet orally. This is usually prescribed twice daily or as directed by your doctor. This drug should be taken with food. Take a glass of water after swallowing the pill. Your doctor may ask you to drink cranberry juice or take vitamin C to increase urine acidity. If you need to split the tablets, ask for assistance from your pharmacist. 

Remember to take this oral medication regularly and exactly as prescribed. To avoid forgetting your medications, make a dosage regimen. Do not alter your dosing or length of treatment as it is based on overall health condition, response to treatment, and for children, age and weight. Moreover, do not stop taking this medication abruptly or even for a short while to avoid the return of infection or the development of bacterial resistance. 

Hiprex Side Effects 

Common side effects: 

-Nausea 

-Vomiting 

-Stomach upset 

-Diarrhea 

-Abdominal cramps 

-Loss of appetite 

For the most part, the side effects caused by this anti-infective medication are mild and will resolve even without intervention. If the adverse reactions do not get better or become worse, you must hold the drug and consult your doctor or any health care professional. Also, you must report severe adverse effects, such as: 

-Bloody or pink urine 

-Painful and frequent urination 

-Bladder irritation 

-Unusual headache 

-Mouth sores 

-Muscle cramps 

-Swelling of the extremities 

This is not a complete or full list of the side effects of Hiprex. 

Precautions when using Hiprex 

Before you begin using this medication, you should fully disclose your medical history to your physician, including any history of dehydration, kidney problems, and liver disorders. Some conditions may affect how your body will respond to the medication. Further, you should discuss all prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking because of possible drug interactions with this oral anti-infective. 

While taking this therapy, keep an eye out for an allergic response. Do not take this oral medication if you have a known allergy to methenamine, formaldehyde, or any inactive ingredients each tablet may contain. Signs of severe hypersensitivity are as follows: skin rashes or red patches, severe dizziness, swelling of the face and neck, hives, and breathing difficulty. If this occurs, discontinue using the medication and seek emergency medical attention. 

The effectiveness of this medication may decrease in an alkaline environment. Thus, it may be necessary to avoid alkalinizing agents, milk products, and certain fruits. Your physician may ask for an acidity test if needed. 

Pregnant or breastfeeding moms must use this oral medication only if extremely necessary. It is best to discuss with your physician or health care provider the benefits and possible risks of this type of medication. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is it safe to use Hiprex for UTI? 

This drug is safe and effective in controlling the return or preventing recurrent UTI. 

Does Hiprex cause thrush? 

This adverse reaction is unlikely while taking methenamine. 

Can I divide Hiprex medication in half? 

Yes, this oral tablet could be divided in half. 

Can I take Hiprex with vitamin C? 

It is ok and sometimes recommended to take both Hiprex and vitamin C. 

How much does Hiprex (methenamine hippurate) cost? 

You may check the prices of this medication from this page.