Mandelamine (Methenamine Mandelate)

What is Mandelamine?

Mandelamine (methenamine) is an antibiotic that stops bacterial growth in the urine. It is important to note that the drug is active against bacterial infections in the urinary tract only and does not treat viral infections or other bacterial infections like those in the blood.

What is Mandelamine used for?

Mandelamine is indicated for the prevention of urinary tract infections. However, it is to be noted that the medication does not treat an active infection. A patient may use other medications to treat the infection and can use Mandelamine later to control returning urinary tract infections.

How does Mandelamine work?

One of the ingredients in Mandelamine helps make the urine acidic. Acidic urine makes methenamine turn into formaldehyde that kills bacteria.

How to use Mandelamine

Mandelamine should be used in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Using it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended may cause health troubles.

Dosage is based on the brand of Mandelamine you are taking, your medical history and response to treatment. Therefore, read the prescription label carefully before taking the medicine and inform your doctor about your medical history. For children, the doctor will prescribe the dosage depending upon their age and weight.

Each dose should be taken with a full glass of water. In order to reduce instances of upset stomach, the medicine should be taken with food. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them.

While taking the liquid form of the medicine, measure the dose in a special dose measuring device only and not a standard tablespoon or teaspoon.

It is advised that you take the medication for the full prescription period. Take it at regularly spaced intervals and around the same time each day.

Mandelamine warnings and precautions

Prior to taking Mandelamine, inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, or any other medical condition. You may be advised to not take this medicine or might need special tests to be done before being prescribed Mandelamine.

Drink plenty of fluids while on the prescription period of this medicine. It is advisable that you increase the intake of protein so as to have more urine acidity. Your doctor may ask you to avoid citrus fruits, antacids, milk and dairy products while you are being treated with this medicine. Follow his instructions wisely.

It is unknown if the drug could harm a fetus if consumed by an expecting mother, therefore pregnant females are advised to consult their doctors before using Mandelamine. Lactating women should not take this medicine (unless prescribed by the doctor) as it is known to pass through breast milk and may harm a nursing infant.

What do I do if I have missed a Mandelamine dose?

If you have missed your Mandelamine dose you can take it as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Mandelamine overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Mandelamine, you should seek medical help.

Mandelamine interactions

Before taking Mandelamine, inform your doctor about all the prescribed and non prescribed dosages that you are on; especially if you are using sulfa products, diuretics (water pills), carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, or products containing aluminum, magnesium, calcium, sodium bicarbonate, sodium citrate, potassium, or citric acid.

Do not start using any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Mandelamine side effects

Mandelamine side effects may include pain in the lower back or sides, bloody urine, pain or difficulty while urinating, or allergic reactions such as hives, swelling, feeling short of breath, closing of throat, etc. If you get any of these side effects after using Mandelamine, contact your doctor right away.

Nausea, decreased appetite, stomach upset, or skin rash are some less serious side effects of Mandelamine.