Elmiron Side Effects

Serious Side Effects of Elmiron

easy bleeding (including nosebleeds, coughing up blood or bleeding from the gums or rectum) or strange bruising
gastrointestinal bleeding with symptoms of dark or tar-like stools which may have blood in them, vomit that has the appearance of coffee grounds or vomit that is bloody
faintness or lightheadedness
serious allergic reaction: hives, rash, swelling of the mouth, tongue, throat, or face, and difficulty breathing

Common Side Effects of Elmiron

headache
stomach aches or pain, indigestion and diarrhea
reduction of hair
redness of the skin or a skin rash
changes in mood
trouble sleeping
feeling dizzy or disoriented

Warnings & Recalls for Elmiron

Elmiron and Pregnancy

Elmiron is an FDA pregnancy Category B medicine. The ingredients in Elmiron are not known to cause harm to the fetus if taken during pregnancy. It has not been confirmed if Elmiron may pass through breast-milk or if it may harm a baby that is nursing. Consult your doctor before taking Elmiron if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

General Warnings

Be sure to let your doctor know about any pre-existing conditions you may have before taking Elmiron. Include information about:

blood clotting problems or if you bleed easily
if you have ever had a stroke (when there is not enough oxygen reaching the brain) or an aneurysm (an unusual widening of an artery)
liver problems or disease
any stomach ulcers
intestinal issues such as intestinal polyps or diverticulitis (formation of small sacs in the lining of the intestines)
any medicines you are using, particularly drugs that may increase bleeding such as anticoagulants, blood thinners, blood clot treatments, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Elmiron Treatment and Use

Elmiron | Pentosan polysulfate is classified as a low molecular weight heparin and an anticoagulant marketed by Janssen Pharmaceuticals for reducing side effects of interstitial cystitis in which the lining of the bladder becomes inflamed for a long period of time. Elmiron may be effective in reducing irritation or pains caused by interstitial cystitis.

How Does Elmiron Work?

Elmiron is a blood thinner that is believed to help relieve interstitial cystitis by assisting in the production of mucous to protect the lining of the bladder.

Elmiron Dosage

Elmiron is prescribed in 100mg capsules to be taken three times each day. Capsules should be taken with a full glass of water one hour before eating or two hours after eating so that you have an empty stomach when taking the medicine. Elmiron is normally effective within three months of usage; however, it may be taken for up to six months or more if advised by your doctor.

Do not take more Elmiron than prescribed or in any way not listed on the label. Let your healthcare provider know if your symptoms worsen or do not improve.

Other Names for Elmiron

Brand name: Elmiron

Generic name: Pentosan Polysulfate