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Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium

Pronounced

"PEN-toe-san paw-lee-SULL-fate SO-dee-um"

Common brand names:

Elmiron

Uses

This medication is used to treat pain/discomfort from a certain bladder disorder (interstitial cystitis). It may work by forming a layer on the bladder wall and protecting it from harmful/irritating substances in the urine. It is also a weak "blood thinner" and may increase the risk of bruising/bleeding (such as bleeding from the nose/gums).

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking pentosan polysulfate sodium and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times daily.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens or does not improve after 3 months.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.