Methenamine (Hexamine hippurate)

Methenamine (Hexamine hippurate) In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Urinary antiseptic.

Uses of Methenamine (Hexamine hippurate)

• Long-term control of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• It is bacteriostatic and mainly indicated for the prevention of recurrent infection.
• It requires an acidic urine to be effective.
• Evidence for efficacy currently lacking in animals

Dose of Methenamine (Hexamine hippurate) in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Management of recurrent UTI: 1–3 tablets p.o. q24h (methenamine/sodium acid phosphate) or 500 mg/dog p.o. q12h (methenamine).

Cats:

• Management of recurrent UTI: 1 tablet p.o. q24h (methenamine/sodium acid phosphate) or 250 mg/cat p.o. q12h (methenamine).

Side Effects of Methenamine (Hexamine hippurate) in Dogs and Cats

• Methenamine may cause GI disturbances.
• Bladder irritation or a rash.
• Often poorly tolerated by cats.

Contraindications of Methenamine (Hexamine hippurate) in Dogs and Cats

• Severe renal or hepatic impairment.
• Dehydration and metabolic acidosis.

Some Notes:

• Efficacy is reduced when drugs that alkalinize urine (potassium citrate) are used concurrently.