Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms April 2013
CystitisCystitis is an inflammation of the bladder, and is
typified by a burning sensation when passingwater and a frequent
need to urinate. Both of these symptoms are due to the presence
ofbacteria in the urine, which makes it more acidic than normal.
Sometimes the urine becomesdark or cloudy and may smell unpleasant.
A raised temperature, vaginal discharge or pain inthe lower back
may also be reported.
Potassium and sodium salts are the mainstayOTC treatments. These
products make theurine more alkaline and render conditions
lessfavourable for bacteria.Cranberry juice appears to act by
stoppingbacteria sticking to the walls of the bladder.There is
evidence supporting its use in cystitisprevention, but less for
cystitis treatment.
1 A man or child reporting symptoms ofcystitis.
1 Cystitis that persists despite trying anOTC remedy.
1 Symptoms accompanied by fever,vomiting, unusual vaginal
discharge orblood in the urine.
I Pregnant women.I Recurrent symptoms accompanied by an
increased thirst, weight loss and thrush, asthis may indicate
undiagnosed oruncontrolled diabetes.
1 Patients with high blood pressure or heartconditions, as they
should not takepotassium or sodium-containing medicineswithout
their doctor knowing.
Assoctii advice
< Start taking the remedy as soon as possibleafter onset of
symptoms, and complete thecourse of treatment even if
symptomsappear to resolve.
increase fluid intake to help flush out theinfection and
encourage urination. Similarly,reduce caffeine and alcohol
intake.
Refer women who suffer from frequent boutsof cystitis to their
doctor for investigation.
Repeated trauma in the genital area cancause cystitis, and can
be eased by usinglubricants, avoiding irritants such asspermicides,
and cleaning the ano-genitalarea before and after sex.
Avoid toiletries containing perfumes orcolourings, as they can
cause irritation.
Observe good toilet hygiene by wiping fromfront to back.
Avoid tight fitting clothes and underwear, asthese can encourage
bacterial growth.
Avoid acidic drinks and spicy foods as thesecan cause bladder
irritation.
For more information, contact the Cystitis andOveractive Bladder
Foundation. Tel: 01908569169. vwvw.cobfoundation.org.
Guide to OTC Medicines
April 2013 Over-the-Counter Medicines Guide
Canesten
Canesten Oasis SachetsBayer Pic Consumer CareSodium citrate
4glsachetSymptomatic relief of cystitis in womenAdults: One sachet
in water 3 timesdaily over 48 hoursCaution: Contraindicated in
patientswith heart disease, high blood pressure,kidney problems,
diabetes, or if patientis on a tow-sodium diet. Consult doctorif
symptoms persist for more than 48hours. Not recommended for
childrenand men6 5.15
Cymalon GranulesActavis UK LtdCranberry flavoured
gratudescontainifig sodium citrate dihydrate 4gper sachetFor the
relief of the symptoms ofcystitis in womenAdult women: One sachet
dissolved ina glass of water 3 times daily for 2 daysCaution: Not
to be used in diabetes,heart disease, hypertension, history ofrenal
disease or by those on a low saltdiet. Consult a doctor if
symptomspersist after the 2 day course oftreatment is completed.
Notrecommended for men or children6 4.54
Cymaclear Oral SolutionPotassitmi citrate 1.5g/ 5inlSymptomatic
relief of dysuriaassociated with mild urinary tractinfections,
especially cystitisAdults and children over 6 years:10ml diluted
with water 3 times a dayafter mealsCaution: Not to be used
inhyperiialaemia, renal dysfunction,ventricular arrythmias,
Addison'sdisease. Caution in cardiac dysfunctionand the
elderly.60ml 4.99
Cystocaim SachetsCalPharm International LtdLemon-flavoured
powder with sodiumcitrate dihydrate 4.0g/sachetFor the relief of
the symptoms ofcystitis in womenAdult women: Take the contents of
1sachet dissolved in cold water 3 times aday for 2 daysCaution: Not
to be taken by patientswith heart disease, diabetes, high
bloodpressure, have ever suffered fromkidney disease, or are on a
low salt diet.Not recommended for men or children6 3.19
Cystopurin SachetsBayer Pic Consumer CareCranberty-flavoured
granules insachets containing potassium citrate 3gSymptomatic
relief of cystitisOne sachet dissolved in water 3 times aday for 2
days. All 6 must be taken tocomplete the treatmentCaution: Consult
a doctor first inkidney or heart disease and before useby men or
children. Not recommendedfor children under 6 years. Patientsshould
seek medical advice ifsymptoms persist after 48 hours6 5.85
Effercitrate TabletsCambridge HealthcareSuppliesEffervescent
tablets containing citricacid 0.2Sg and potassium citrate
l.SgCystitis symptomsAdults and children over six years:Two tablets
dissolved in water up to 3times a day after mealsCaution: Not to be
used by patientswith intestinal ulcration, hypertension,heart
disease or impaired kidneyfunction.12 4.85
Prices in this section are correctat the time of going to
press.For latest packs and prices, seeC+D Price Service.
Guide to OTC ivtedicines
