Generic name: cranberry [ KRAN-ber-ee ]
Brand names: Azo cranberry, AZO Cranberry Gummies, Azo-Cranberry, Cranberry Fruit, Cranberry with Vitamin C, ... show all 10 brands Ellura, TheraCran HP for Kids, TheraCran One, TheraCran HP, Cranberry with Hibiscus
Dosage forms: oral capsule (-), oral tablet (-), oral tablet, chewable (-), oral tablet, disintegrating (125 mg)
Drug class: Herbal products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 16, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is cranberry?

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

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

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.

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

Cranberry side effects

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 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.

Warnings

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.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this product if you are allergic to 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 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 cranberry to a child without medical advice.

How should I take cranberry?

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 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 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 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 cranberry does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Related/similar drugs

amoxicillin, doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, levofloxacin, Augmentin

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use 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.

What happens if I overdose?

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

What should I avoid while taking cranberry?

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

What other drugs will affect cranberry?

Do not take 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.

Popular FAQ

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Further information

• Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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