A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection of the urinary system. In most cases, it affects the bladder or urethra. The condition causes a lot of discomfort, especially around the bladder in the lower abdomen, and can also cause frequent and painful urination. 

A painkiller becomes almost necessary to deal with the pain. Various painkillers for UTI pain can help you sleep when experiencing UTI discomfort. Some of them can help you get rid of UTI pain fast. 

Read on to know which Over-the-Counter (OTC) pain relievers are effective and which medications doctors may prescribe for stronger pain that is unmanageable by an OTC medication.

Over-the-Counter Painkillers for UTI Pain

Several OTC medicines are available for UTI pain, including:

  • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): You can control UTI pain and inflammation with medications like Ibuprofen (Brufen 400mg) and Naproxen. NSAIDs also help reduce fever; however, there can be potential side effects
  • Acetaminophen: General painkillers like this reduce UTI symptoms like pain and fever. However, it does not help with inflammation but is safer than NSAIDs for people with kidney disease or gastrointestinal issues
  • Phenazopyridine: This is a popular analgesic, available over-the-counter in low dosage strength, soothes the lining of the urinary tract and helps with urinary pain. It also relieves burning and urgency

Painkiller for Pelvic Pain

You should see a doctor if you are experiencing pain, especially in the pelvic region. What you think is a symptom of a UTI can also be due to other conditions. 

The pain can be due to Endometriosis, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), or menstrual pain. Painful urination and increased urgency are both UTI and Endometriosis symptoms. 

Regestrone 5mg is a highly effective pain medication that you can use for Endometriosis, menstrual pain, and PMS. It is also successful in controlling menstrual irregularities and heavy menstrual bleeding. 

Therefore, though this can be used for pelvic pain, it is not used for UTI-related pain. This emphasizes the importance of a doctor consultation for a proper diagnosis, even before using OTC painkillers for UTI. 

Prescription Pain Relievers for UTI 

If OTC pain relievers prove insufficient, a doctor may prescribe strong painkillers for suppressing pain.

  • Phenazopyridine: Prescription Phenazopyridine with a higher dosage is a stronger urinary analgesic that can help reduce symptoms when the OTC variant fails. It can provide quick relief
  • Antibiotics: While antibiotics are not painkillers, they are the primary UTI treatment. Therefore, they also help relieve UTI pain by resolving the infection

To learn more about the medications to remove the root cause of the UTI pain, read UTI Medicine: Paving the Way to a Healthy Urinary Tract.

Things to do while using painkillers for UTI

Always follow the recommended dosage instructions, whether you’re taking OTC or prescription painkillers. Generally, dosage instructions are provided in the packaging, or your doctor may tell you how much medicine you should take.

Drink sufficient water to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract and reduce discomfort. If you are taking NSAIDs, it is advisable to take them with food or milk.

Avoid alcohol, as it can irritate the bladder and worsen UTI symptoms. Additionally, apply a heating pad to the abdomen for added comfort.

Conclusion

Various OTC and prescription painkillers, such as NSAIDs, Acetaminophen, and Phenazopyridine, can be helpful when dealing with UTI pain. Phenazopyridine stands out specifically for being a urinary analgesic and being available both as prescription medications and OTC. NSAIDs are good for pain and fever, while individuals with gastrointestinal or kidney problems can use Acetaminophen.

Other medications, like Regestrone 5 mg, may be recommended for similar symptoms like pelvic pain but different causes, like Endometriosis or PMS. You should consult a doctor before taking medications. Always follow the recommended dosage while taking painkillers for UTI pain. Additionally, drink water adequately to flush the bacteria, and avoid alcohol for as long as you are taking the painkillers.