Interstitial Cystitis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

• Care notes
• Aftercare
• Ambulatory
• Español

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a long-term condition that causes pressure and pain in your bladder and pelvic area. IC is also called bladder pain syndrome and painful bladder syndrome. The cause of IC is not known.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your doctor or urologist if:

• Your symptoms get worse, or you develop new symptoms.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Elmiron
• Pyridium
• Uristat
• Azo Urinary Pain Relief
• phenazopyridine

View more treatment options

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
• Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
• Other medicines may be given to decrease symptoms, such as the need to urinate urgently or often. These medicines may be taken by mouth or placed directly into your bladder.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Manage your symptoms:

• Keep a log. Include how much liquid you drink and how much you urinate. Bring this log to your appointments.
• Go to physical therapy. A physical therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and decrease pain.
• Nutrition changes may be needed. Citrus and spicy foods may irritate your bladder. Ask your healthcare provider which foods are best for you.
• Drink liquids as directed. You may need to drink extra water, or you may need to drink less. Carbonated drinks and caffeine may irritate your bladder. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
• Manage stress. Stress may worsen symptoms. Your healthcare provider may recommend you find ways to manage stress, such as relaxation techniques.
• Train your bladder to urinate less often. This can be done by going to the bathroom at scheduled times. Try to hold your urine when you feel the urge to go. For example, hold your urine for 5 minutes when you feel the urge to go. As that becomes easier, hold your urine for 10 minutes.
• Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can worsen your symptoms. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

Follow up with your doctor or urologist as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer