Elmiron Side Effects

Generic name: pentosan polysulfate sodium

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 5, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Elmiron.

Applies to pentosan polysulfate sodium: oral capsule Side Effects associated with pentosan polysulfate sodium. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Elmiron.

Applies to pentosan polysulfate sodium: oral capsule.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your or your child's progress at regular visits to make sure this medicine is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Check with your doctor right away if blurred vision, difficulty with reading, slower adjustment to low or reduced light, or any other change in vision occurs during or after treatment. Your doctor may want your eyes be checked by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) and eye tests will be needed, especially within 6 months of starting treatment with this medicine.

This medicine can temporarily lower the number of platelets in your blood, which are necessary for proper blood clotting. Because of this, you may bleed longer than usual or get bruised more easily. If this occurs, there are certain precautions you can take to reduce the risk of bleeding:

• Check with your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising, black, tarry stools, blood in the urine or stools, or pinpoint red spots on your skin.
• Be careful when using a regular toothbrush, dental floss, or toothpick. Your medical doctor, dentist, or nurse may recommend other ways to clean your teeth and gums. Check with your medical doctor before having any dental work done.
• Be careful not to cut yourself when you are using sharp objects such as a safety razor or fingernail or toenail cutters.
• Avoid contact sports or other situations where bruising or injury could occur.

Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. You may need to stop using this medicine several days before having surgery or medical tests.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects of Elmiron

Along with its needed effects, pentosan polysulfate sodium (the active ingredient contained in Elmiron) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking pentosan polysulfate sodium:

Other side effects of Elmiron

Some side effects of pentosan polysulfate sodium may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to pentosan polysulfate sodium: oral capsule, oral delayed release capsule.

General adverse events

The most frequently reported side effects were alopecia, diarrhea, nausea, headache, rash, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, liver function abnormalities, and dizziness.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Alopecia, rash
• Frequency not reported: Ecchymosis, photosensitivity, pruritus, urticaria, sweating increased^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Common (1% to 10%): Liver function abnormal
• Frequency not reported: Liver function test elevated^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Common (1% to 10%): Urinary frequency
• Frequency not reported: Vaginitis, pelvic pain^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain
• Frequency not reported: Vomiting, mouth ulcer, colitis, esophagitis, gastritis, flatulence, constipation, gum hemorrhage, enlarged abdomen
• Postmarketing reports: Rectal hemorrhage^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Headache, dizziness
• Frequency not reported: Hyperkinesia^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Frequency not reported: Anemia, prothrombin time increased, partial thromboplastin time increased, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, coagulation disorder^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Pharyngitis, rhinitis, epistaxis, dyspnea^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Conjunctivitis, optic neuritis, amblyopia, retinal hemorrhage, lacrimation, nystagmus^[Ref]

Immunologic

• Frequency not reported: Allergic reaction^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Anorexia^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Emotional lability/depression, insomnia, mood swings, suicidal ideation^[Ref]

Other

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Weight gain, weight loss
• Frequency not reported: Tinnitus, peripheral edema, asthenia^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Myalgia, arthralgia^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Elmiron side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer