Elmiron is the primary oral medication agreed to treat bladder pain and discomfort associated with interstitial cystitis. Even if it is not totally understood how the drug works, it is known to help rebuild the mucous lining of the bladder. It is vital to carry on taking Elmiron for at least six months to give the drug an adequate chance to relieve symptoms.

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 reduce bladder pain or discomfort associated with interstitial cystitis (IC). It is the first and merely oral medication to be agreed 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 totally 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 finally 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 get better 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 sense relief from interstitial cystitis pain for the first two to four months. A reduce in urinary frequency may start to six months. You should carry on with Elmiron for as a minimum six months to give the drug an adequate chance to relieve interstitial cystitis symptoms.