Elmiron
Brand Names
Pentosan polysulfate sodium, ElmironWhat is Elmiron
Elmiron is a medication that works like an anticoagulant (blood thinner) that prevents the formation of blood clots. However, it is used to treat bladder pain and discomfort caused by cystitis (bladder inflammation or irritation).
Side effects of Elmiron
There is a list of serious side effects caused by this medication:
- signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat;
- nosebleed;
- blood in your urine or stools;
- rectal bleeding;
- coughing up blood;
- bleeding gums;
- feeling like you might pass out.
Less serious side effects can be:
- hair loss;
- nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain;
- headache;
- mild dizziness;
- depressed mood;
- mild itching or skin rash.
Indication
Elmiron is intended to prevent the formation of blood clots. However, it is used to treat bladder pain and discomfort caused by cystitis (bladder inflammation or irritation).
Precautions
It is highly recommended to inform your doctor if you have:
- Are taking anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin sodium (Coumadin), heparin, high doses of aspirin, or anti-inflammatory pain medications (like ibuprofen)
- Liver disease
- An aneurysm
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelets)
- Hemophilia
- Peptic ulcer or stomach ulcer
- Colon polyps
- Diverticulosis or diverticulitis
- Are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding
Dosage forms
Elmiron dose
The recommended starting dose for the treatment of interstitial cystitis is 100 mg, 3 times a day. It is recommended that you take your Elmiron capsule with water, either one hour before or two hours after a meal.
After 3 months of treatment with Elmiron, you should be re-evaluated by your doctor. If your interstitial cystitis symptoms are not improving, you can continue taking Elmiron for another 3 months. If symptoms of interstitial cystitis have not improved after 6 months, your doctor may recommend stopping Elmiron.
