Activated Charcoal Methenamine
Activated Charcoal/Methenamine is a combination medication used primarily for urinary tract conditions. Activated charcoal acts as an adsorbent that can bind to toxins and certain substances in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, while methenamine serves as a urinary antiseptic that converts to formaldehyde in acidic urine to help eliminate bacteria. This combination may be prescribed for patients with urinary tract infections or as a prophylactic treatment for recurrent urinary issues.
A multi-ingredient urinary antiseptic and adsorbent combination used to treat and prevent urinary tract infections.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1007188
- Generic
- Activated Charcoal / Methenamine
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections, including cystitis and recurrent UTIs. May be used when combined antibacterial and adsorbent properties are deemed appropriate by a healthcare provider.
Methenamine (hexamethylenetetramine) is hydrolyzed to formaldehyde in acidic urine, which provides antibacterial activity against susceptible organisms. Activated charcoal acts as a adsorbent that can bind to various substances in the urinary and gastrointestinal tracts.
Requires acidic urine (pH below 6) for methenamine to be effective; urine acidification may be recommended. Activated charcoal may reduce absorption of other medications if taken simultaneously. Not indicated for poisoning/toxicity emergencies. Complete full course as prescribed. Consult healthcare provider about potential drug interactions.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy