Relieves bladder pain caused by a bladder disorder called interstitial cystitis
Brand Names:
Elmiron
Contraindications:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pentosan polysulfate sodium or related medicine such as heparin
Uses:
Capsule
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often. You should not use more of the medicine or take it more often than your doctor ordered.
Take the medicine with water at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal (unless your doctor tells you differently).
If a dose is missed:
Take the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
You should not use two doses at the same time.
Storage:
Store the capsules at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Special precautions:
Before taking, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to any medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure or liver disease. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking, call your doctor
Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking aspirin (including products that may contain aspirin, such as cold medicines or pain relievers) or blood thinners such as Coumadin® or heparin. Pentosan polysulfate taken with these medicines may increase the risk of bleeding problems.
Warnings:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before taking this medicine. If you become pregnant while being treated with this medicine, tell your doctor right away.
This medicine is like a weak anticoagulant (blood thinner). It can slow down your blood's ability to make clots, so you may bruise more easily or bleed longer if you are injured. If you have nosebleeds, bleeding from your gums, or unusual bruising, tell your doctor.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have liver disease, spleen problems, any bleeding problems such as hemophilia or stomach ulcers, or if you have polyps or diverticulitis.
Before having any surgery or dental work, make sure you tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medicine.
Side Effects:
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Bleeding from your gums or nose
Bloody or black bowel movements
Coughing up blood
Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Severe stomach pain or diarrhea that does not stop
