ELMIRON (PENTOSAN POLYSULFATE SODIUM)

About Elmiron and How it Works

If you are experiencing the pelvic pain and discomfort of interstitial cystitis (IC), your doctor may recommend a prescription for Elmiron or generic Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium to relieve the inflammation.

Although there is no cure for interstitial cystitis, Elmiron medication can provide relief from symptoms that may include: chronic pelvic pain; discomfort while the bladder fills and relief after urinating; pain during sexual intercourse; a persistent and frequent need to urinate. IC is a chronic and treatable condition that affects both men and women.

The cause of IC is still relatively unknown, but there are theories. One is that the protective glycosaminoglycan (GAG) layer in the bladder wall has become damaged. A leak in this protective layer allows toxic substances in your urine to irritate the wall of the bladder.

Elmiron medication is thought to work by acting like the natural GAG layer to stop the aggravation of your bladder wall. This will take time so you must be patient while taking Elmiron to allow it to work. It may take two to four months before you begin to feel pain relief and up to six months to experience a decrease in urinary frequency.

Conditions Treated by Elmiron

Interstitial cystitis, also called bladder pain syndrome, may be an autoimmune disease that causes your own body’s defense system to attack the tissues of the GAG layer. As harmful substances penetrate the deep layers of your bladder wall, such as potassium ions and urinary proteases and other solutes, sensory neurons are activated and inflammatory chemicals are sent in response.

Some individuals bothered by IC have found a change in their diet has also helped relieve the symptoms. Everyone is different, so you may have to keep a diary of what you eat and drink and whether your symptoms have improved or worsened. Talk to a professional nutritionist for advice and any other help you need.

Before You Take Elmiron

Before undergoing treatment with Elmiron, advise your doctor if any of the following apply to you:

• Stomach ulcer
• History of aneurysm or stroke
• Intestinal polyps
• Bleeding or blood clotting disorder
• Liver disease
• Diverticulitis
• Hair loss

Make sure your doctor has a complete and current list of prescription medications and over the counter medicines you are taking to prevent any undesirable drug interactions.

Where Will I Find the Cheapest Elmiron Price?

Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium, the generic form of Elmiron, is available through some online pharmacies. While the non-active ingredients in the brand name and Elmiron generic may be different, the active medicinal ingredient is the same at a fraction of the price of the brand name product. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Elmiron Precautions

Elmiron medication should be taken on an empty stomach; at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Elmiron is a weak anticoagulant; if you are scheduled for any dental or surgical procedures, inform the medical staff as you may have to stop taking Elmiron for a specific period of time before, during, or after the procedure is complete.

Possible Elmiron Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Mild itching or rash