Azo cranberry

Azo cranberry is a type of North American evergreen shrub also known as American Azo cranberry, bearberry, arándano and other names. Azo cranberry leaves and fruits have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes.

Azo cranberry has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in preventing urinary tract infections in adult females, children, and people prone to urinary tract infections. Azo cranberry is not recommended in the treatment of urinary tract infections.

Other uses not proven with research have included: reducing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, reducing urine odor or to improve quality of life in people with urinary incontinence.

It is not certain whether Azo cranberry is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Azo cranberry should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Azo cranberry is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Azo cranberry may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use Azo cranberry, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different forms of Azo cranberry (pills, liquids, and others) at the same time or you could have an overdose.

If you cannot swallow a capsule whole, open it and mix the Azo cranberry with a sweet beverage, pudding or applesauce. Swallow the mixture right away without chewing.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Azo cranberry does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

You should not use this product if you are allergic to Azo cranberry.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• a history of kidney stones;
• diabetes (some Azo Azo cranberry products may contain high amounts of sugar); or
• if you are allergic to aspirin or salicylic acid.

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any Azo cranberry to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of Azo cranberry may include:

• upset stomach;
• nausea, vomiting; or
• diarrhea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Use Azo Azo cranberry as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Do not take Azo cranberry without medical advice if you are taking:

• warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven);
• a medication for high blood pressure such as nifedipine; or
• a medication for high cholesterol such as atorvastatin.

Other drugs may interact with cranberry, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.