Which of the following is a common side effect of urinary tract analgesics like Pyridium?

Urinary tract analgesics, such as Pyridium (phenazopyridine), are primarily used to relieve pain, burning, and discomfort caused by irritation of the urinary tract. One notable and common side effect of these medications is the alteration of urine color. Specifically, Pyridium can turn urine a bright orange or red color as it is excreted. This change occurs due to the drug's active components, which are excreted through the kidneys and into the urine.

This side effect is not harmful, but it can be startling for patients who are not informed beforehand, leading to potential concerns about the presence of blood in the urine. Understanding this side effect is crucial for patients, as it helps differentiate between the expected effects of the medication and potential pathological conditions.

In contrast to this, the other options do not align with the pharmacological action and the known side effects of Pyridium. Staining of teeth is typically associated with other types of medications, fluid retention is not a common side effect of this analgesic, and while drowsiness can be a side effect of many medications, it is not a characteristic effect of urinary tract analgesics. This highlights the importance of patient education regarding expected side effects when prescribing medications like Pyridium