What is Elmiron used for?

Elmiron and the generic alternative Pentosan polysulfate sodium is used to treat pain or discomfort from a certain bladder disorder known as interstitial cystitis which causes swelling and scarring of the bladder wall. It is also a weak "blood thinner" and therefore may increase the risk of bruising/bleeding (e.g., bleeding from the nose/gums).

How Does Elmiron work?

Elmiron works like an anticoagulant or blood thinner that prevents the formation of blood clots. However, it is also used to treat bladder pain and discomfort caused by cystitis resulting in bladder inflammation or irritation. It works by forming a layer on the bladder wall and protecting it from harmful or irritating substances in the urine.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Pentosan polysulfate comes as a capsule to take by mouth.
• It is usually taken with water three times a day.
• Take the medicine on an empty stomach either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
• Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
• If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture so not in the bathroom.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history especially of bleeding disorders such hemophilia or thrombocytopenia, blood vessel disorders, aneurysms, liver disease, spleen disorders, stomach disorders and intestinal disorders such as stomach ulcers, polyps or diverticula.
• If you are pregnant, planning on pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Also be aware that:

• Pentosan polysulfate has a blood-thinning effect and may cause increased bleeding.
• To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor will need to check your progress every 3 months. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with Elmiron. You may also need blood tests to check for certain side effects. Visit your doctor regularly.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Hair loss.
• Nausea, diarrhea or stomach pain.
• Headaches.
• Mild dizziness or a depressed mood.
• Mild itching or skin rash.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Nosebleeds or bleeding gums.
• Rectal bleeding, coughing up blood or blood in your urine or stools.
• Feeling like you may pass out or shortness of breath.
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing.
• Tiredness, fast beating heartbeat, signs of infection such as fever or persistent sore throat.
• Yellowing eyes or skin.
• Vision changes or eye pain.

Q: What is the generic alternative to Elmiron?

A: The generic alternative to Elmiron is called Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium and may offer even better savings. You can save up to 90% on both Elmiron and the generic through buying with us.

Q: What is the strength of Elmiron?

A: Both Elmiron and the generic alternative Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium come in a strength of 100mg.

Q: When should I take Elmiron?

A: Elmiron is usually taken with water three times a day. You should take the medicine on an empty stomach either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.</li>

Q: What are the side-effects of Elmiron?

A: Less serious side effects of Elmiron include hair loss, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, headaches, mild dizziness, depressed mood and mild itching or skin rash. You should contact your doctor if you experience nosebleeds or bleeding gums, rectal bleeding, coughing up blood or blood in your urine or stools, feeling like you may pass out or shortness of breath. Other serious side effects include symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing, tiredness, fast beating heartbeat, signs of infection such as fever or persistent sore throat, yellowing eyes or skin and vision changes or eye pain.