Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

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This section refers to OTC symptomatic medications (not antibiotics)

Phenazopyridine is OK, Oxybutynin is not

Phenazopyridine is a urinary analgesic, an azo dye that soothes the lining of the urinary tract to relieve pain, burning, urgency, and irritation from UTIs, surgery, or injury; it's not an antibiotic, so it doesn't cure infections but provides rapid comfort, often alongside antibiotics, and famously turns urine orange-red and can stain. Common side effects include stomach upset, headache, and orange urine, but serious ones like yellowing skin, dark urine, or breathing trouble require immediate medical attention. Use is short-term (around 2 days with antibiotics) due to potential side effects and toxicity concerns.

Generally Safe to Fly (GO) Avoid (NO GO)

Phenazopyridine

Common US Brand Names for Phenazopyridine

Azo-Gesic

Azo-Septic

Azo-Standard

Baridium

Phenazo 95

Prodium

Pyridiate

Pyridium

RE-Azo

Urinary Pain Relief

Uristat

UTI Relief

Oxybutynin (Oxytrol for women)

Common US Brand Names for Phenazopyridine

Oxytrol for women

Oxytrol for women

Ditropan

Ditropan XL

FAA Rationale: Oxybutynin can cause sedation and dizziness.

Phenazopyridine is generally allowed after adequate ground trial to monitor for side effects. Symptoms should be resolved other than slight residual irritation, and as always if symptoms persist pilots should seek more formal medical workup.

Disclaimer: Neither the FAA nor FlightPhysical.com will attempt to publish all-inclusive references. Online guidance does not replace medical advice from your PCP and/or AME. Most doctors are not AMEs, and your regular Primary Care Provider (PCP) or specialist will know more about you and/or your specific medical condition than an AME, but is probably untrained or unfamiliar with aviation medicine. Follow 14 CFR 61.53 (duty to self-ground when ill) for your safety and that of your passengers. Don't fly after taking a new medication for the first time until 48 hours have past without side effects. When in doubt - DO NOT FLY.
FAA and MayoClinic