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Home > Drug Category > Disorders of the Digestive Tract (IBS,Crohns Disease,Stomach) > Elmiron and Equivalent

Elmiron Information

Elmiron (Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium) is used to manage the chronic pain and pressure associated with interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome. This is a debilitating condition in which the bladder wall becomes inflamed, scarred, or easily irritated due to the breakdown of the protective mucus lining that usually prevents urinary toxins from reaching sensitive bladder tissues.

The active ingredient in Elmiron is pentosan polysulfate sodium, a semi-synthetically produced compound that is chemically and structurally similar to natural glycosaminoglycans. While the exact way it works appears somewhat complex and isn't fully understood, researchers believe it helps by adhering to the bladder's mucosal membrane, acting as a replacement for the defective natural glycosaminoglycans layer. This effectively serves as a buffer to block irritating solutes in urine from penetrating the bladder wall. The reinforcement of this barrier reduces the inflammation and hypersensitivity that trigger the intense pelvic pain and urgent, frequent urination associated with this disease.

Elmiron Side Effects

Like other medications, Elmiron has its own side effects, some of which are transient and mild, such as stomach upset, diarrhea, dizziness, hair loss, headache, itching, and nausea. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

In recent years, Elmiron has been closely scrutinized due to a link with a specific, rare type of eye damage called pigmentary maculopathy. It may cause symptoms such as difficulty reading, blurred vision, or a slow adjustment to low light, which may not resolve even after stopping this medication. It is however recommended to get regular eye exams while taking this medication and contact your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your vision.

Also, stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Bleeding problems such as unusual nosebleeds, bruising, blood in urine, rectal bleeding, coughing blood, bleeding gums, cuts that don't stop bleeding

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Elmiron Precautions

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to pentosan polysulfate sodium, other ingredients in Elmiron, or any other medicines. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Bleeding disorders;
• Brain aneurysm;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Personal or family history of eye disorders

You must inform your surgeon or dentist that you are on Elmiron. You may be required to stop taking it at least 1 to 2 weeks before any invasive procedure to prevent excessive bleeding. This medication is generally not recommended for use in pregnant and breastfeeding women. It should be used only during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, if recommended by your doctor after careful evaluation of its risks and benefits. Elmiron is not recommended in children under 18 years, as safety and efficacy have not been established in this group.

Because Elmiron has weak anticoagulant effects, combining it with other blood thinners (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or warfarin) significantly increases the risk of bruising and internal bleeding. Therefore, before taking this medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medicines and supplements, to determine whether Elmiron is safe to use with them.

Take Elmiron capsules orally, as directed by your doctor. The generally recommended dose is 100 mg per capsule, taken three times daily at evenly spaced intervals. It’s important to swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water on an empty stomach, meaning at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. This timing is necessary because food can interfere with the absorption of the medicine. Take this medication consistently as prescribed, as it may take several weeks before you begin to experience symptom relief. Check out the leaflet in the medication pack for more usage instructions. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Elmiron?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Elmiron.