Cystopen (other name Elmiron)

Common use

Elmiron is used to treat bladder pain and discomfort caused by cystitis (bladder inflammation or irritation). It helps protect and repair the bladder lining to reduce discomfort. The medication requires regular use over weeks or months for effectiveness.

Dosage and direction

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Take Elmiron with a full glass of water. Take on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Swallow the capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have ever had: a bleeding or blood clotting disorder; eye problems (especially a problem with your retina) in you or a family member; an aneurysm or stroke; a stomach ulcer, intestinal polyps or diverticulitis; or liver disease.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Contraindications

You should not use Elmiron if you are allergic to it.
Taking Elmiron can make it easier for you to bleed. Call your doctor at once if you have any unusual bleeding (nosebleed, blood in your urine or stools, rectal bleeding, coughing up blood, bleeding gums).

Possible side effect

Elmiron may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have: nosebleeds, bleeding gums; blood in your urine or stools; rectal bleeding; coughing up blood; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; or vision problems (blurred vision, trouble reading, trouble seeing in low light).
Common side effects of Elmiron may include: bruising, blood in your stools; hair loss; nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach; headache; swelling, weight gain; dizziness; rash; or abnormal liver function tests.

Drug interaction

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially: a blood thinner - warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven; medication used to prevent blood clots - apixaban, heparin, rivaroxaban, Eliquis, Xarelto, and others; or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) - aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib, diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and others.

Missed dose

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep away from children and pets.