Elmiron (Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium)

What is Elmiron?

Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) acts as a blood thinner (an anticoagulant). It prevents formation of blood clots in the body.  Even though it is a blood thinner it is used in the treatment of a specific bladder disorder.

What is Elmiron used for?

Elmiron is used to treat pain or discomfort caused by a certain bladder disorder called interstitial cystitis.

How does Elmiron work?

Elmiron works by forming a layer on the bladder wall. The layer protects the bladder from harmful or irritating substances in the urine.

How to use Elmiron

Elmiron should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

The drug is usually taken thrice daily, on an empty stomach, with a full glass of water. It is advisable to take Elmiron 2 hours after or at least an hour before meals. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

Get your blood tested on a regular basis while using Elmiron.

Elmiron warnings and precautions

Do not use this drug if you are allergic to pentosan polysulfate sodium.

Prior to taking Elmiron, tell your doctor if you have a liver disease, a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, stomach ulcer, diverticulitis or intestinal polyps, a history of stroke or aneurysm. You may need a special test to safety or dose adjustment if you have any of these problems.                                              

Follow your diet schedule and avoid sudden changes in the diet plan. Since Elmron is a weak blood thinner, it may enhance the risk of bleeding or bruising. Therefore, be cautious while brushing teeth and performing other such activities.

If you need to undergo a surgery, tell your surgeon in advance about the use of this drug. You may need to temporarily stop

What do I do if I have missed a Elmiron dose?

If you have missed your Elmiron dose, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Elmiron overdose?

If you have taken an Elmiron overdose, you should seek medical attention.

Elmiron interactions

Before taking Elmiron, tell your doctor if you take aspirin, anistreplase (Eminase), streptokinase (Streptase, Kabikinase), clopidogrel (Plavix), heparin or warfarin (Coumadin), urokinase (Abbokinase), alteplase (Activase), ticlopidine (Ticlid), dipyridamole (Persantine); or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as piroxicam (Feldene), nabumetone (Relafen), etodolac (Lodine), meloxicam (Mobic), diflunisal (Dolobid), mefenamic acid (Ponstel), indomethacin (Indocin), flurbiprofen (Ansaid), ketorolac (Toradol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), ketoprofen (Orudis), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), or naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve). Such products can interact with Elmiron and can increase the risk of bleeding.

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use. Also, do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Elmiron side effects

Elmiron side effects include hives, breathing trouble, nosebleed, bloody stools, rectal bleeding, blood in urine, coughing up blood, bleeding gums, swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Elmiron, contact your doctor right away.

Hair loss, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, depression, mild dizziness, skin rash or mild itching are some less serious side effects of Elmiron.