Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium

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Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium Prescription Drug Information

Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium (By mouth)
Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium (PEN-toe-san pol-ee-SUL-fate SOE-dee-um)

Relieves bladder pain caused by a bladder disorder called interstitial cystitis.

Brand Name(s):Elmiron
There may be other brand names for Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium.

When Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium Should Not Be Used:
You should not use Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium if you have had an allergic reaction to pentosan polysulfate sodium or related medicine such as heparin.

How to Use Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium:
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 of Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium 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.

How to Store and Dispose of Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium:

• Store the capsules at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid While Taking Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• 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 While Using Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before taking Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium. If you become pregnant while being treated with Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium, tell your doctor right away.
• Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium 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 Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium.

Possible Side Effects While Using Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• 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
• Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding from cuts or wounds that does not stop
• Easy bruising, purple spots on the skin

If you notice these less serious side effects while taking Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium, talk with your doctor:

• Hair loss
• Upset stomach, indigestion, or nausea
• Mild stomach pain or diarrhea

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088