3 Ways to Take AZO

This article was medically reviewed by Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS. Sarah Gehrke is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Sarah has over 10 years of experience teaching and practicing phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) therapy using physical, psychological, and emotional support. She received her Massage Therapist License from the Amarillo Massage Therapy Institute in 2008 and a M.S. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013.

There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
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AZO is an over-the-counter medication that many people use for relief from urinary or bladder problems. There are numerous different types of AZO to choose from, including preventative cranberry supplements. Before you start AZO, talk with your doctor. Then, spend some time on the main AZO website researching the various product offerings. When you’ve decided which product to use, follow the dosage instructions precisely to get the most effectiveness.[1] X Research source

Steps

Identifying the Right AZO Product for You

1. 1Choose the AZO product based on your symptoms. AZO offers a number of different options to treat urinary tract infections or bladder control issues. Read over the packaging of each product to see which one addresses your specific health concerns. If you need something fast-acting, then going with the maximum strength option might be the best.[2] X Research source
2. 2Select an AZO medication form based on your personal preferences. While AZO comes in pill and tablet form, they also offer other options for consumers. The cranberry supplements, in particular, are available in gummies, caplets, and softgels. The gummies are a good option if you dislike taking pills.[3] X Research source
   • If you do decide to go the pill or tablet route, you should avoid chewing or breaking them up. They need to be swallowed whole for maximum effectiveness and chewing them can also stain your teeth and mouth.[4] X Research source

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3. 3Ask your doctor for a phenazopyridine prescription. If none of the AZO offerings appeal to you, your doctor may be able to give you a prescription for the primary active ingredient, phenazopyridine. This is a good option if you suffer from recurring urinary tract or bladder issues. Be aware that the dosage amounts and protocols may differ from those used with AZO.

Following AZO Dosage Guidelines

1. 1Adhere to the dosage instructions on the label. Scan down the back of the package until you reach the area labeled “Directions.” Read over these instructions and follow them exactly. For maximum strength AZO, you’ll need to take 2 tablets up to 3 times per day. Try to evenly space out your dosages throughout the day.[5] X Research source
   • For example, you might take a 1 pill at 7am, another at 1pm, and a final pill at 7pm.
2. 2Take your pills with or after meals. The pill or tablet form of AZO works best if you pair it with a full stomach. This also lessens the possibility of stomach upset. To boost the effectiveness of your dosage even more, swallow your pills with a full glass of water.[6] X Research source
   • If you can’t take it with a full meal, even a small snack will work, too. For example, eat a few crackers along with your AZO.
3. 3Do not double-up on doses. If you miss a dose, take it as close to the original time as possible. If you get too close to your next dosage time, simply count the prior one as missed and skip it. Go ahead and take your next does as planned. Do not take 2 doses at once or you’ll risk overdosing on the AZO medication.[7] X Research source
4. 4Stop using AZO after 2 consecutive days. If you’ve been taking a standard dosage of AZO and are still suffering from a urinary tract infection, then it’s time to stop and see your doctor. It’s possible that your infection has progressed and needs an antibiotic or other specific treatment.[8] X Research source
   • Continuing to use AZO beyond this period can increase the possibility of suffering from side effects, such as loose stools.
5. 5Store AZO in a cool, dry place. As with many medications, extreme temperatures can cause AZO to lose its effectiveness. Keep it in a medicine cabinet or other area away from direct sunlight. Aim for a storage temperature of between 59-86 degrees Fahrenheit.[9] X Research source

Taking AZO Safely

1. 1Do not panic if your urine turns reddish. This is a normal after effect from taking a product with phenazopyridine, such as AZO. Your urine may change color to a red or orange tone while you are using AZO. This change is only temporary, but the color can dye your clothing upon contact.[10] X Research source
2. 2Talk to your doctor before taking AZO if you are pregnant. Women who believe they might be pregnant or who are breastfeeding should reach out to their doctor to discuss their options before starting AZO. The same advice goes for any medicines that contain the active ingredient of phenazopyridine.[11] X Research source
   • If you suffer from liver or kidney issues, it’s also a good idea to consult with your doctor before using AZO.
3. 3Alert any laboratory personnel if you are on AZO. The main ingredient of AZO, phenazopyridine, can interfere with the results of some urine tests. Before you provide a urine sample, tell the lab techs and your doctor that you are taking AZO. They may give you an alternate version of the test based upon this information.[12] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
4. 4Watch out for side effects. If you experience a less serious side effect, such as stomach upset, reach out to your doctor for advice. If you have a more extreme side effect, such as hives or breathing problems, stop taking the medication immediately. Seek emergency medical attention if your health continues to worsen.[13] X Research source

Expert Q&A

Tips

• Be careful when handling AZO pills, they may stain anything they come into contact with.[14] X Research source
• AZO is generally more effective at treating urinary ailments if you start taking it at the first sign of any issues.

Warnings

• Children under the age of 12 should generally not take AZO unless they’ve consulted with a doctor beforehand.[15] X Research source

References

1. ↑ https://reference.medscape.com/drug/azo-standard-pyridium-phenazopyridine-343349
2. ↑ https://www.azoproducts.com/products
3. ↑ https://www.azoproducts.com/products
4. ↑ https://www.azoproducts.com/products/azo-max-strength
5. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-77838/azo-oral/details
6. ↑ https://reference.medscape.com/drug/azo-standard-pyridium-phenazopyridine-343349
7. ↑ http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=45&pid=45&gid=0109
8. ↑ https://www.drugs.com/dosage/phenazopyridine.html
9. ↑ https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=ba13a608-e4c5-4465-8be8-be0fd1fd46ae

1. ↑ http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=45&pid=45&gid=0109
2. ↑ http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=45&pid=45&gid=0109
3. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682231.html
4. ↑ http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=45&pid=45&gid=0109
5. ↑ https://www.azoproducts.com/products/azo-max-strength
6. ↑ https://www.azoproducts.com/products/azo-max-strength

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