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Methenamine (Hexamethylenetetramine): Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side Effects

sachinkumar244
1 min read

Chemical Formula:

  • C6H12N4

Structure of Methenamine/Hexamethylenetetrenine
Structure of Methenamine/Hexamethylenetetrenine

Mechanism of Action:

  • Methenamine is a urinary antiseptic with antibacterial properties.

  • When it reaches the acidic environment of the urine, it decomposes into ammonia and formaldehyde.

  • The formaldehyde is toxic to bacteria, as it denatures their proteins and nucleic acids, leading to bacterial cell death.

Uses:

  • Methenamine is primarily used for the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections in patients with a history of frequent UTIs.

Side Effects:

Some common side effects of methenamine include:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhea

  • Abdominal pain

  • Loss of appetite


Serious side effects may include:

  • Crystalluria (crystals in the urine)

  • Hematuria (blood in the urine)

  • Bladder irritation

  • Hypersensitivity reactions


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