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ELMIRON (pentosan polysulfate sodium) is the only prescription drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of discomfort or pain of interstitial cystitis (IC). Elmiron is helping to restore and repair the damaged lining of the bladder. While using this medication, some people can experience relief of symptoms in about four weeks after starting therapy, while others after three months. Usually, longer use of Elmiron shows better results. The person, using Elmiron, should keep in touch with a doctor during the full therapy process. While using this medication, the patient can find future relief by changing certain lifestyle habits including gentle exercises, new diet, and bladder training. Improvements of the symptoms are usually gradual. If no improvement occurs within six months, the person must talk to doctor. Scientists suggest that Elmiron is working by helping to build up the bladder lining’s protective mucous layers. Elmiron is usually well tolerated. Common side effects of this medication may include dizziness, blood in stool, abnormalities of liver function, abdominal ache, stomach upset, rash, headaches, hair loss, nausea, and diarrhea. Usually such side effects are mild and did not interfere with continuing therapy. If loss of hair occurs, it nearly always limited to a single scalp area, and it is growing back, when Elmiron treatment is stopped. The medication is a weak blood thinner(anticoagulant), which can increase bleeding. The person should contact doctor before undergoing surgery or starting anticoagulant treatment with such drugs as anti-inflammatory medications, including ibuprofen; high doses of aspirin or heparin; or warfarin. Pregnant women should talk to their doctor before starting Elmiron treatment about risks or benefits. Breast-feeding mothers also should talk to their doctor before taking Elmiron. Effectiveness and safety in children under 16 years old is not established. The drug must be used exactly as prescribed by doctor. Overdose can lead to abnormalities of liver function, thrombocylopenia, bleeding, and anticoagulation. In overdose cases, the person must contact emergency room or local poison control center immediately. Elmiron is manufactured in form of capsules, containing 100mg pentosan polysulfate sodium. One bottle contains 100 capsules. The medication must be used with full glass of water at least two hours after or one hour before meals. Usual dose is 1 capsule 3 times a day. Elmiron must be stored in tightly closed container at room temperature, away from heat, direct light, moisture, children, and pets.
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