Popular Over-the-Counter Drug Linked to Cancer
Over-the-counter medicine may seem harmless because a prescription from a doctor isn't needed to get it. But over-the-counter drugs are still medicine, and it's always important to check with a doctor before taking any meds.
"Over-the-counter medicine is also known as OTC or nonprescription medicine," the Food and Drug Administration states on the agency's website. "All these terms refer to medicine that you can buy without a prescription. They are safe and effective when you follow the directions on the label and as directed by your health care professional."
Now, a drug that has been available for decades is being singled out as having a possible link to cancer and other health issues.
According to a May 19 report in Bloomberg, phenazopyridine is a drug used to control pain from urinary tract infections. "Sold under such brand names as Azo and Uristat, it's available in most U.S. pharmacies or groceries with a well-stocked health aisle and doesn't require a prescription," Anna Edney of Bloomberg states in the piece.
"Phenazopyridine is used to relieve the pain, burning, and discomfort caused by infection or irritation of the urinary tract," the Mayo Clinic says of the medicine.
