Uses
Pentosan polysulfate is used to relieve bladder pain and discomfort related to interstitial cystitis, a disease that causes swelling and scarring of the bladder wall. It is similar to a class of medications called low molecular weight heparins. It works by preventing irritation of the bladder walls.
Side Effects Of Pentosan Polysulfate
Pentosan polysulfate may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- hair loss
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- heartburn
- headache
- rash
- stomach pain
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- moodiness
- dizziness
Some side effects of pentosan polysulfate can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- nosebleed
- heavy gum bleeding
- black and tarry stools
- red blood in stools
- bloody vomit
- vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds
Pentosan polysulfate may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking pentosan polysulfate:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to pentosan polysulfate, danaparoid (Orgaran), heparin, or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: anticoagulants (‘blood thinners’) such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had an aneurysm, hemophilia, ulcers, low platelet count, an intestinal blockage, or liver or spleen disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking it, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking pentosan polysulfate.
- you should know that pentosan polysulfate has a blood-thinning effect and may cause increased bleeding.
Pentosan Polysulfate Dosage
Pentosan polysulfate comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken with water three times a day, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take pentosan polysulfate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will examine you after 3 months to see if your symptoms have improved.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription of pentosan polysulfate.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
