Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Pyridium as follows:
- Pyridium use tends to increase the blood sugar levels and can compromise the results on labs drawn. Report to your physician on your Pyridium intake, for any clarification on elevated blood sugar results. Individuals taking Pyridium must be aware of symptoms of elevated blood sugars, such as, trouble concentrating, frequent urination, headaches, weakness, and fatigue. Diabetic individuals taking Pyridium are at increased risk for poor blood sugar control and elevated blood sugar readings. Blood sugars must be closely watched, especially in diabetic individuals taking Pyridium, with log maintenance of everyday blood sugars. Blood sugar results and symptoms of elevated blood sugars should return to your normal, upon discontinuation on Pyridium intake. Report to your physician regarding any uncontrolled symptoms of hyperglycemia with Pyridium intake or continuing symptoms of hyperglycemia, even after discontinuation on Pyridium, so that, a change in plan of care could be considered.
- The metabolites of Pyridium along with the significant unmetabolized portion of the parent drug are excreted in the urine. Individuals with compromised renal function cannot excrete these compounds normally, which allows them to stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, Pyridium could be avoided or used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function, with possible multiple dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for renal functions, and close watch for development of any dangerous side-effects and toxicity symptoms with the medication.
- Take the medication dose for the duration prescribed without fail, to derive the benefit of the medication.
