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Having Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. On Steroid Pills. Strong Ammonia Smelling Odor In Urine. Reason?

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Posted on Mon, 11 Nov 2013
Question: I have recently been diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. About 3 weeks ago I was in the hospital with acute bronchonitis and had 2 iv antibiotics, steriod iv every 6 hours and breathing treatments every 4 hours. Since getting out of the hospital I had 3 days of steriod pills and an inhaler. I have been off all of it for over 2 weeks now but I have noticed a strong, foul, ammonia-smelling odor in my urine every time I go (and I drink plenty of water daily). Also, there is a metallic smell with the ammonia and also a metallic taste in my mouth and smell to my breath. I have not had any pain in urination, but have experienced some pain in my legs and swelling in my ankles. I have had a doppler done to rule out blood clots in my legs. The only medication I currently take is famotidine for heartburn and maxzide when my ankles swell. What could be causing this odor, it is very embarassing and annoying.
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Answered by Dr. Manjeth Kumar G (4 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Maxzide containing trimaterene is the cause.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to XXXXXXX

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Maxzide contains Triamterene and Hydrochlorothiazide.

Triamterene is known to cause Ammoniacal smelling in breath and urine.
It also cause metallic taste in mouth.

Thus all these smell and taste are not due to doctor to change the drug and get another proper drug.

Hope this helps.
Please reply for further queries.
WIshing you good health.
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Manjeth Kumar G

Anesthesiologist

Practicing since :2010

Answered : 1120 Questions

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Having Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. On Steroid Pills. Strong Ammonia Smelling Odor In Urine. Reason?

Brief Answer:
Maxzide containing trimaterene is the cause.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to XXXXXXX

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Maxzide contains Triamterene and Hydrochlorothiazide.

Triamterene is known to cause Ammoniacal smelling in breath and urine.
It also cause metallic taste in mouth.

Thus all these smell and taste are not due to doctor to change the drug and get another proper drug.

Hope this helps.
Please reply for further queries.
WIshing you good health.