Hiprex 1g Tablets 100s

Methenamine Hippurate – Urinary Antiseptic for Recurrent UTI Prevention

Methenamine Hippurate is a urinary tract antiseptic indicated for the prophylaxis and suppression of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Unlike conventional antibiotics, methenamine does not act systemically. Instead, it works locally in acidic urine to release formaldehyde, which provides broad-spectrum antibacterial activity within the urinary tract.

This makes Methenamine Hippurate a valuable antibiotic-sparing option for long-term UTI prevention, particularly in patients experiencing recurrent cystitis.

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Key Benefits

• Helps prevent recurrent urinary tract infections
• Reduces reliance on long-term antibiotics
• Broad antimicrobial activity in urine
• Suitable for chronic suppressive therapy under medical supervision
• Low risk of bacterial resistance development

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Drug Classification

• Therapeutic Class: Urinary Antiseptic
• Active Ingredient: Methenamine Hippurate
• Common Strength: 1 g tablets

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Mechanism of Action

Methenamine is hydrolyzed in acidic urine (pH ≤ 5.5) to release formaldehyde, a non-specific bactericidal agent. Formaldehyde denatures bacterial proteins and nucleic acids, preventing bacterial growth within the urinary tract.

For optimal effectiveness, urine must remain acidic. Healthcare providers may recommend Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) to maintain appropriate urinary pH levels.

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Indications

• Prevention of recurrent uncomplicated UTIs
• Chronic cystitis suppression
• UTI prevention in patients prone to frequent infections
• Post-urological procedure prophylaxis (as directed by a physician)

Note: Methenamine Hippurate is not indicated for the treatment of acute symptomatic UTIs.

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Dosage & Administration

Adults: 1 gram twice daily (morning and evening), or as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• Take with food and a full glass of water
• Maintain adequate hydration
• Avoid concurrent use with urinary alkalinizing agents (e.g., potassium citrate)

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Contraindications

• Severe renal impairment
• Severe hepatic insufficiency
• Severe dehydration
• Known hypersensitivity to methenamine or hippurate

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Precautions

• Monitor urinary pH during prolonged therapy
• Not suitable for febrile or upper urinary tract infections
• Use cautiously in patients with gout
• Avoid use with sulfonamides due to risk of crystalluria

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Possible Side Effects

• Nausea
• Stomach discomfort
• Skin rash
• Bladder irritation (rare)

Seek medical advice if serious allergic reactions occur.

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Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C
• Keep in a dry place
• Protect from moisture
• Keep out of reach of children

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Methenamine Hippurate an antibiotic?

No. It is a urinary antiseptic and does not function as a systemic antibiotic.

Can it treat an active UTI?

No. It is intended for prevention and suppression, not for treating acute infections.

Can it be used long term?

Yes, it may be prescribed for long-term use under medical supervision in patients with recurrent UTIs.

Does it cause antibiotic resistance?

Because it releases formaldehyde locally in urine, resistance development is uncommon.