What it is used for
- Potentially helping reduce recurrent urinary tract infections in some people
- Use as a urinary-health supplement while recognising that evidence is limited
- It is not used to treat current cystitis or kidney infection
How it is used
- Swallow capsules or tablets with water, or use syrup or an effervescent product as directed by the leaflet
- Choose a reliable product because active constituents vary greatly between products
- Drink adequate fluids if your clinician has not restricted them, and never use the supplement instead of prescribed treatment
- Check every ingredient in combination products to avoid duplicating vitamins or minerals
Possible side effects
- Stomach upset or nausea
- Diarrhoea with large amounts
- Rarely, rash or an allergic reaction
- It may increase the tendency to form selected kidney stones in susceptible people
Who should not use it
- Allergy to cranberry or any ingredient in the product
- A history of recurrent oxalate stones requires medical advice before use
Before and while using it
- Seek medical assessment for urinary burning or frequency with fever, flank pain, blood in urine or vomiting
- Do not delay antibiotics or medical review when a urinary infection is diagnosed
- Evidence does not guarantee prevention and products are not equivalent in content
- People with kidney disease or fluid or potassium restrictions should ask a clinician
- Some syrups and effervescent products contain added sugar or salts
Medicine interactions
- It may increase warfarin's effect in some people; tell your clinician and attend clotting monitoring
- Tell your clinician about kidney medicines, diuretics and all supplements
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Ask a clinician before using a concentrated supplement during pregnancy or breastfeeding because information on different products is limited
How to store it
- Store as directed by the leaflet away from heat, moisture and children's reach, and discard syrup after the stated period following opening
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.