Pentosan capsules

What are pentosan capsules?

PENTOSAN (Elmiron®) is used to treat the pain or discomfort of a bladder disorder called interstitial cystitis. Pentosan is also a very weak blood thinner. Generic pentosan capsules are not yet available.

What should my health care professional know before I take pentosan?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding disorders or blood problems

• high blood pressure

• liver disease

• previous stroke

• stomach, intestinal or bowel disease

• stomach or intestinal ulcers

• an unusual or allergic reaction to pentosan, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take pentosan capsules by mouth on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after meals. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with pentosan?

• agents that dissolve blood clots

• aspirin, especially in higher doses

• blood thinners, such as warfarin

• clopidogrel

• dipyridamole

• fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids) supplements

• herbal supplements, like garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, or horse chestnut

• non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen)

• ticlopidine

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines. Tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking pentosan?

Pentosan is a very weak blood thinner. Watch for any signs of blood in your urine or stools or for any unusual bruising or bleeding. If you take any other medications that may thin the blood (see drug interactions), be especially watchful. You may wish to check with your health care professional prior to taking any non-prescription (OTC) products containing aspirin. Read package labels carefully.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking pentosan if you are going to have a medical procedure or surgery.

What side effects may I notice from taking pentosan?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

Rare or uncommon:

• unusual bleeding

• nosebleeds

• coughing up blood

• blood in your urine or stools

• rash

More frequent:

• bruising

• diarrhea

• abdominal pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• hair loss

• nausea

• headache

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children and in a container that small children cannot open.

Store your medicine at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep your medicine container tightly closed and protect it from light.