Medications and Drugs

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GENERIC NAME: PENTOSAN POLYSULFATE SODIUM - ORAL (PEN-toe-san paw-lee-SULL-fate SO-dee-um)

BRAND NAME(S): Elmiron

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used in the treatment of interstitial cystitis, a bladder disorder.

HOW TO USE: This medication is taken by mouth as directed usually three times a day. Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water at least one hour before or two hours after meals. It is important to continue taking this medication for the full time prescribed to receive maximum benefit. It may take up to several months of continued use to see a relief in symptoms.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication is generally well tolerated. Stomach upset, nausea, headache, dizziness or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: rash, hair loss, unusual bleeding or bruising. Very unlikely but report: vision problems, insomnia, persistent sore throat, yellowing of the eyes or skin, vomiting, fever, sun sensitivity, itching, trouble breathing, chest pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other illnesses, liver disease, blood or bleeding disorders, ulcers, stomach or digestive disorders, recent or scheduled surgical procedures, any allergies. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. It is unknown if this medication is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you use, including: warfarin, heparin, other blood thinners, aspirin or aspirin-like NSAIDS (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.