What is Elmiron prescribed for?

Interstitial cystitis, often called painful bladder syndrome, is somewhat of a tricky situation. While there is treatments for this syndrome that make life with it better, there is unfortunately no cure.

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic bladder problem. What happens is that your bladder holds your pee after your kidneys have filtered it but before you pee it out. This condition causes pain and pressure below your belly button. Symptoms for this disorder can come and go or they may be constant. The condition causes urgent and often painful bathroom trips, and may make you have to go pee as much as 40 to 60 times a day in severe cases.

This medication is used to treat the pain and discomfort interstitial cystitis can cause. It may work by forming a layer on the bladder wall and protecting it from any harmful substances in the urine. This medication also works as a weak blood thinner and therefore it may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

This medication comes in the singular dose of 100mg.  Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

This medication is to be taken by mouth about 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. And it is usually taken 3 times a day, unless directed otherwise by your doctor.

Use this medication on a regular basis to gain the most benefit. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often then what has been prescribed to you. Your condition will not improve at a faster rate and you may increase the risk of side effects. If you condition does not improve or worsens, inform you doctor.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium; or to heparin or low molecular weight heparin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems

Before using this medication, tell your doctor of your medical history, especially if you have experienced any of the following; bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia, thrombocytopenia), blood vessel disorders (e.g., aneurysm), liver disease, spleen disorders, stomach/intestinal disorders (e.g., stomach ulcers, polyps, diverticula).

Common side effects of this medication do include the following; Diarrhea, hair loss, nausea, headache, stomach upset or abdominal pain.  It is best to speak with your doctor promptly if you are experiencing any of these side effects.

There is some serious but unlikely side effects that may occur, speak with your doctor if you are experiencing any of the following; unusual bruising/bleeding (e.g., blood in stool), mental/mood changes, heartburn, discomfort when swallowing.

Inform you doctor right away if you are experiencing these rare, but very serious side effects; tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), shortness of breath, vision changes, eye pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, persistent nausea/vomiting.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: severe rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What is Elmiron?

Elmiron is an oral medication (capsule form) available only with a prescription.  Each capsule contains 100mg of pentosan polysulfate sodium, a miscellaneous genitourinary tract agent which works similar to anticoagulant drugs. You can buy Elmiron online at My Drug Center.

What is Elmiron used for?

Elmiron is prescribed to patients who have cystitis, also known as interstitial cystitis (bladder inflammation or irritation); a condition which causes frequent and painful bathroom trips commonly accommodated with unwanted symptoms. So what does Elmiron do? Using Elmiron will help treat the symptoms of this condition; pain, pressure, and discomfort.

How does Elmiron work?

Though there are a couple different reasons that are thought to be the cause of this condition, Elmiron focuses on one in particular; harmful substances like bacteria ending up in the bladder, irritating the lining of the bladder and causing inflammation and cystitis. Elmiron works by forming a protective layer around the bladder wall to protect it from these substances to reduce the symptoms the harmful substances would have otherwise caused.

How long does it take for Elmiron to work?

The exact amount of time it takes for Elmiron to become effective will vary from person to person. Some patients have reported symptom relief as soon as 3-4 weeks after starting treatment, where others require 6 months of treatment before seeing an improvement.

How to take Elmiron?

Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, to use Elmiron; take one capsule orally 3 times per day. Each capsule should be swallowed whole with water, either 1 hour prior or 2 hours following a meal.

Why is Elmiron so expensive?

In the United States, Elmiron is the only oral drug specifically meant for interstitial cystitis, which may be why it is listed as a tier 4 drug, the second most expensive tier a drug can fall under, next to specialty drugs. So, how much does Elmiron cost? At My Drug Center, we carry Elmiron for as low as $2.07 per pill; that’s roughly 13 times cheaper than the average retail price per pill in the United States.

Who makes Elmiron?

Elmiron is made by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, which is owned by Johnson & Johnson.