-2%
Methenamine is a heterocyclic compound used in the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections. In urinary conditions, it is commonly administered as a salt such as methenamine hippurate. Its antibacterial activity depends on an adequately acidic urinary environment.
Methebac is used for the prevention and management of urinary tract infections (UTIs). It may be prescribed for:
- Maintenance treatment after successful antibiotic therapy for an acute UTI
- Long-term prevention of recurrent cystitis
- Suppression of urinary infections in patients with indwelling urinary catheters and reduction of catheter blockage
- Prevention of infection during urinary tract instrumentation or procedures
- Management of asymptomatic bacteriuria
- Adults and children over 12 years: 1 g twice daily.
- Children 6–12 years: 0.5–1 g twice daily, as prescribed.
Methenamine works more effectively when the urine is acidic. Therefore, excessive consumption of alkalinizing foods or medicines should generally be avoided. Urine pH and clinical response may be monitored, and additional urine acidification may be considered when medically appropriate. Repeated urine cultures can be used to assess treatment effectiveness.
রেজিস্টার্ড চিকিৎসকের পরামর্শ মোতাবেক ঔষধ সেবন করুন।
Contraindications
Methebac should not be used in patients with:
- Significant kidney impairment
- Severe liver impairment
- Severe dehydration
It should not be used alone to treat acute infections involving the kidney tissue when systemic symptoms are present.
Side Effects
Methebac is generally well tolerated. Reported adverse effects are uncommon and may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Itching
- Skin rash
- Pain or discomfort during urination
In children receiving recommended prophylactic or suppressive doses, side effects have been reported only rarely.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Methenamine should only be used during pregnancy when the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Adequate controlled studies in pregnant women are not available.
Breastfeeding: Methenamine passes into breast milk. Because potentially serious effects in nursing infants cannot be excluded, a healthcare professional should decide whether breastfeeding or treatment should be discontinued.
Precautions & Warnings
- Methebac should only be used when there is a confirmed or strongly suspected bacterial infection or an appropriate preventive indication. Unnecessary use may contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
- Maintaining an adequately acidic urine is important for its antibacterial activity, particularly when treating infections caused by urea-splitting organisms such as Proteus species.
- Patients with liver problems should use the medicine cautiously.
- Periodic liver function monitoring may be considered, particularly in patients with existing liver dysfunction.
- The medicine is intended mainly for prevention or suppression and should not replace appropriate antibiotic treatment when an acute, systemic UTI requires antibiotics.
Overdose
In case of an overdose, medical attention should be sought promptly. Depending on the situation, measures to reduce further absorption may be considered, followed by supportive treatment and adequate fluid administration under medical supervision.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.