Elmiron

What Are the Generic and Trade Names for Elmiron?

Elmiron^® is the brand name for this medication. The generic name is pentosan polysulfate sodium.

 

Who Makes Elmiron?

Elmiron is manufactured by Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc.

 

What Is It Used For?

Elmiron is used to help relieve bladder pain or discomfort associated with interstitial cystitis (IC). It is the first and only oral medication to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this purpose.

 

This medication has not been approved for use in children.

 

How Does It Work?

Elmiron is actually a weak blood thinner. It is not completely understood how the drug works, but it is believed to work by helping to rebuild the mucous lining of your bladder.

 

After taking Elmiron, the drug dissolves and eventually ends up in your bladder. Here, it sticks to the bladder wall (instead of being removed with urine) and helps rebuild the lining.

 

Effects of Elmiron

In clinical studies, Elmiron was able to improve bladder pain in about 38 percent of women with chronic interstitial cystitis, while 18 percent of women taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredient) had improved symptoms of interstitial cystitis. People may not feel relief from interstitial cystitis pain for the first two to four months. A decrease in urinary frequency may take up to six months. You should continue with Elmiron for at least six months to give the drug an adequate chance to relieve interstitial cystitis symptoms.