Pentosan polysulfate sodium is used to relieve symptoms of interstitial cystitis (a long-term condition that causes pain or discomfort in the bladder).
Take Pentosan polysulfate sodium exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This medicine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking Pentosan polysulfate sodium even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you are experiencing bleeding as Pentosan polysulfate sodium may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- history of thrombocytopenia (lower than normal platelet count in the blood) caused by heparin (blood-thinning medicine)
- bleeding disorders e.g. thrombocytopenia, haemophilia (an inherited bleeding disorder which causes the blood to not clot properly)
- aneurysm (weakness and bulging of the blood vessel wall in the brain or lower major blood vessel away from the heart)
- eye problems affecting the retina (layer at the back of the eye that detects light)
- digestive tract problems e.g. ulcerations (open sores or wounds in the lining of the stomach or intestines), polyps (small lumps in the lining of the stomach or intestines), diverticula (small pouches that form in the lining of the intestines, which can sometimes become inflamed)
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are going to have an operation, including minor surgery and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medicine.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Routine tests (e.g. complete blood count, liver function, kidney function, eye examination, calcium level in the blood) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Pentosan polysulfate sodium may cause any of the following side effects: hair loss, headache, dizziness, nausea, enlarged stomach, stomach pain, indigestion, diarrhoea, frequent urination, flu, weakness, pain in the lower stomach area and between the hips, back pain, and swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any signs or symptoms of retina problems including blurred vision, difficulty when reading, and slow vision adjustment to low or reduced light.
Pentosan polysulfate sodium may cause you to bleed more easily. Inform your doctor if you get any unusual bruising (large bruises or several bruises especially if they appear by themselves or if they cover a large area), or bleeding that takes a long time to stop (for example, too much bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth). Alert your doctor if you notice blood in your urine or stool or if you get a nose bleed.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- blood-thinning medicines e.g. aspirin, apixaban, heparin
- medicines used to dissolve blood clots e.g. alteplase
- NSAIDs (medicines for pain and inflammation) e.g. celecoxib
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Pentosan polysulfate sodium.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.