Pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS), also known as Elmiron, is a prescription medication used to treat bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC). BPS/IC is a chronic bladder condition that causes pain, pressure, and discomfort in the bladder and pelvic region. PPS is thought to work by coating and protecting the lining of the bladder, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
PPS is typically taken orally, once or three times a day. The dosage of PPS will vary depending on the individual patient’s needs. PPS is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.
In addition to its use for BPS/IC, PPS is also being investigated for potential use in the treatment of other conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis: PPS may help to reduce pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis.
- Painful bowel syndrome: PPS may help to reduce pain and inflammation in people with painful bowel syndrome.
- Vulvodynia: PPS may help to reduce pain and inflammation in people with vulvodynia.
- Interstitial cystitis in men: PPS may help to reduce pain and inflammation in men with interstitial cystitis.
- Radiation cystitis: PPS may help to reduce pain and inflammation in people who have received radiation therapy to the bladder.
- Chemotherapy-induced cystitis: PPS may help to reduce pain and inflammation in people who have received chemotherapy drugs that can damage the bladder.
- Overactive bladder: PPS may help to reduce bladder spasms and the frequency of urination in people with overactive bladder.
- Recurrent urinary tract infections: PPS may help to reduce the frequency of recurrent urinary tract infections.
Research on the use of PPS for these conditions is still ongoing, but the results so far have been promising.
How to use PPS
PPS is typically taken orally, once or three times a day. The dosage of PPS will vary depending on the individual patient’s needs. PPS is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.
It is important to take PPS exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less PPS than prescribed, and do not take it more often than prescribed.
PPS should be taken with food to help reduce the risk of stomach upset.
If you forget to take a dose of PPS, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Side effects of PPS
PPS is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur, such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Hair loss
- Pigmentary maculopathy (a rare eye condition that can lead to vision loss)
If you experience any side effects while taking PPS, be sure to talk to your doctor.
PPS is a safe and effective medication for the treatment of BPS/IC. It is the only FDA-approved medication for this condition. PPS is also being investigated for potential use in the treatment of other conditions, such as osteoarthritis, painful bowel syndrome, vulvodynia, and interstitial cystitis in men.
If you are considering taking PPS, it is important to talk to your doctor first. Your doctor can help you to determine if PPS is right for you and can monitor you for any side effects.
