Skip to main content
Elmiron Coupon - Elmiron 100mg capsule

Elmiron

pentosan
Used for Cystitis
Used for Cystitis

Elmiron (pentosan) is a urinary analgesic used to treat bladder pain and discomfort caused by bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis). This medication has been studied in people 16 years and older. The usual dosage is 1 capsule taken by mouth three times a day. Potential side effects include nausea and hair loss. More serious side effects can include eye damage like changes in the retina and vision problems.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on September 10, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Elmiron (pentosan)?

What is Elmiron (pentosan) used for?

How Elmiron (pentosan) works

Elmiron (pentosan) is a urinary analgesic. It's not fully clear how it works. But it’s believed that the medication works by forming a protective layer on the bladder wall, which helps to shield the bladder from harmful substances in urine that can cause irritation and pain.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsElmiron
Drug ClassUrinary analgesic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$1287.55(save 18.94%)
GoodRx discount
$1043.71
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Elmiron (pentosan)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Hair loss (4%)
  • Diarrhea (4%)
  • Nausea (4%)
  • Headache (3%)
  • Rash (3%)
  • Stomach pain (2%)
  • Upset stomach (2%)
  • Abnormal liver tests (1%)
  • Dizziness (1%)

Other Side Effects

  • Rectal bleeding
  • Gas
  • Constipation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Bleeding from your gums
  • Changes in your blood count
  • Sore throat
  • Stuffy nose
  • Itchiness
  • Hives

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Changes in the retina of the eye (pigmentary maculopathy): difficulty reading, blurred vision, vision takes longer to adjust to dim light

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine 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:

Less common

Black, tarry stools

bleeding of the gums

blindness

blood in the urine or stools

blue-yellow color

blurred, decreased, or other changes in vision

bruising

burning, dry, or itching eyes

burning feeling in the chest or stomach

chest pain or tightness

chills

cough

difficulty breathing or swallowing

discharge, excessive tearing

dizziness

eye pain

fast heartbeat

heartburn

hives, itching, skin rash

indigestion

large, flat, blue or purplish patches in the skin

loss of appetite

nosebleed

painful or difficult urination

pain or burning in the throat

pale skin

pinpoint red spots on the skin

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or tongue or inside the mouth

stomach cramps, tenderness, or upset

swollen glands

uncontrolled eye movements

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

watery or bloody diarrhea

weight loss

Rare

Yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects 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:

Less common

Belching

bloating

body aches or pain

constipation

continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in ears

diarrhea

discouragement

dizziness

dryness of the throat

excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels

feeling sad or empty

full feeling

headache

hearing loss

hoarseness

increased body movements

increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight

increased sweating

indigestion

irritability

itching of the vagina or genital area

loss of interest or pleasure

nausea

pain during sexual intercourse

passing gas

redness or other discoloration of the skin

runny or stuffy nose

severe sunburn

sneezing

stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

thick, white vaginal discharge with no odor or with a mild odor

thinning or loss of hair

trouble concentrating

trouble sleeping

voice changes

Rare

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

difficulty in moving

joint pain

muscle pain or stiffness

stopping of menstrual bleeding

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Elmiron (pentosan)

thumbs-up

Pros

Only oral medication approved by the FDA for bladder pain syndrome

Can relieve bladder discomfort and pain

Can be used in people 16 years and older

thumbs-down

Cons

Must be taken 3 times per day

Can take 3 to 6 months to start working

Needs to be taken on an empty stomach

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Elmiron (pentosan)

pharmacist

  • Take Elmiron (pentosan) 3 times per day with water on an empty stomach. To make sure your stomach is empty, take the medication 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

    • It's important to take Elmiron (pentosan) consistently, even if you don't feel relief right away. It might take 3 to 6 months for you to see any improvement in your bladder symptoms.

      • Elmiron (pentosan) can make you bleed more easily, especially if you're taking blood thinners or NSAIDs. Speak to your prescriber if you have blood in your stool, nosebleeds, or if you're bruising easily.

        • Let your prescriber know if you have a medical procedure or surgery planned. They might have you stop taking Elmiron (pentosan) before the procedure.

          • Elmiron (pentosan) can cause changes in the retina of the eye, which can occur even after you stop taking the medication. Make sure to get all recommended eye exams done on time and tell your care team if you notice any changes in your vision.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Elmiron (pentosan)

            Can you buy Elmiron (pentosan) over the counter?
            No, Elmiron (pentosan) isn't available over the counter. You'll need a prescription from a healthcare professional (HCP) to take this medication.
            Does Elmiron (pentosan) cause eye damage?
            Elmiron (pentosan) can cause changes in the retina of your eye, which can damage your vision. These changes can be permanent. If you experience difficulty reading, blurred vision, or if your vision takes longer to adjust to dim light, let your prescriber know right away.
            Does Elmiron (pentosan) cause hair loss?
            Hair loss is a common side effect of Elmiron (pentosan). In studies, hair loss started within the first 4 weeks of using Elmiron (pentosan), and it usually affected one small area of the scalp. The hair loss is typically reversible once you stop taking the medication.
            Does Elmiron (pentosan) cause weight gain?
            Weight gain isn't a common side effect from taking Elmiron (pentosan). Speak to your prescriber if you have any concerns about weight changes while taking this medication.
            Does Elmiron (pentosan) cure interstitial cystitis?
            No, Elmiron (pentosan) doesn't cure interstitial cystitis. But it can help relieve symptoms such as bladder pain and discomfort.
            Does Elmiron (pentosan) have a generic?
            No, there's currently not a generic version of Elmiron (pentosan) available.
            How long does Elmiron (pentosan) stay in your system?
            It takes around 5 days for most of Elmiron (pentosan) to leave your system. This is based on the medication's half-life, which is a measure of how long it takes for a substance to leave your body. Everyone responds to medications differently, and it can take shorter or longer depending on factors like your other health conditions.
            How long does it take Elmiron (pentosan) to work?
            You might experience symptom relief a few weeks after starting Elmiron (pentosan). But it can take as long as 3 to 6 months to work. It's important that you continue to take Elmiron (pentosan) every day as prescribed, even if you don't see results right away. If you haven't seen any improvement after 6 months, let your prescriber know. You might have to try a different treatment.
            GoodRxEducationalIcon

            How to save using GoodRx

            Compare Prices
            1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
            Select your free coupon
            2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
            Show coupon to your pharmacist
            3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
            Get free couponLearn more
            warings-icon

            What are the risks and warnings for Elmiron (pentosan)?

            Elmiron (pentosan) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Changes in the retina of the eye (pigmentary maculopathy)

            Taking Elmiron (pentosan) can cause changes in the retina of your eye, known as pigmentary maculopathy, which can affect your vision. These changes might be permanent even after you stop taking Elmiron (pentosan). If you experience difficulty reading, blurred vision, or if your vision is slow to adjust to dim light, contact your prescriber right away. They will recommend regular eye exams while you're taking Elmiron (pentosan) to catch any changes to your eye early on.

            risk-warning

            Risk of bleeding

            • Risk factors: Taking Elmiron (pentosan) with blood thinners, high doses of aspirin, or NSAIDs

              Elmiron (pentosan) can cause bleeding. If you're taking blood thinners, high doses of aspirin, or NSAIDs, your risk of bleeding is even higher. Let your prescriber know right away if you have blood in your stool, nosebleeds, or if you're bruising easier.

              risk-warning

              Risk of liver problems

              • Risk factors: History of liver problems

                Elmiron (pentosan) can cause abnormal liver tests, though that doesn't always lead to liver problems. Your liver is involved in breaking down Elmiron (pentosan) and clearing it from your body. Let your prescriber know if you have a history of liver problems because your risk of having side effects from taking this medication might be higher.

                dosage

                Elmiron (pentosan) dosage forms

                The average cost for 90 capsules of 100mg of Elmiron (pentosan) is $1043.71 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 18.94% off the average retail price of $1287.55.
                capsule
                Capsule
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                100mg90 capsules$1043.71$11.60

                Typical dosing for Elmiron (pentosan)

                The typical dose is 100 mg by mouth 3 times per day with water, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

                interactions

                Interactions between Elmiron (pentosan) and other drugs

                Elmiron (pentosan) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Elmiron (pentosan). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                • Chondroitin
                • Coenzyme Q10
                • Curcumin
                • Dong Quai
                • Ginger
                • Vitamin A
                drug-cost

                How much does Elmiron (pentosan) cost?

                To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                Elmiron (brand)
                GoodRx lowest price

                $1043.71

                (save 18.94%)
                View prices & coupons
                contraindications-icon

                Elmiron (pentosan) contraindications

                Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Elmiron (pentosan) will not be safe for you to take.

                • Allergy or sensitivity to Elmiron (pentosan) or heparin products

                images

                Elmiron (pentosan) images

                White Bnp 7600 Bnp 7600 - Elmiron 100mg Capsule
                This medicine is White Capsule Imprinted With "Bnp 7600 Bnp 7600".White Bnp 7600 Bnp 7600 - Elmiron 100mg Capsule

                Get savings updates for Elmiron (pentosan)

                Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Elmiron (pentosan) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                By providing your email, you consent to receive marketing communications from GoodRx, which may include content and/or data related to men’s health, women's health, reproductive care, or sexual health. You agree to the GoodRx Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

                References

                Best studies we found

                American Urological Association. (2022). Diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (2022). 

                Grigoryan, B., et al. (2022). Pentosan polysulfate in patients with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis with Hunner's lesions or glomerulations: systematic review and meta-analysis. Therapeutic Advances in Urology.

                Interstitial Cystitis Association. (n.d.). Pentosan polysulfate sodium.

                View All References (3)

                Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2024). Elmiron- pentosan polysulfate sodium capsule, gelatin coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Pearce, W. A., et al. (2018). Pigmentary maculopathy associated with chronic exposure to pentosan polysulfate sodium. Ophthalmology.

                Teichman, J. M. (2002). The role of pentosan polysulfate in treatment approaches for interstitial cystitis. Reviews in Urology.

                GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                Was this page helpful?

                Compare other Cystitis drugs

                Nitrofurantoin vs ElmironUrispas vs ElmironAmoxicillin vs PenicillinAugmentin vs AmoxicillinAugmentin vs BactrimAzithromycin vs AmoxicillinBactrim vs AmoxicillinBactrim vs CefdinirBactrim vs CiproBactrim vs ClindamycinBactrim vs KeflexCefdinir vs AmoxicillinCephalexin vs AmoxicillinDoxycycline Hyclate vs AmoxicillinDoxycycline vs BactrimErythromycin vs AmoxicillinFlagyl vs BactrimFosfomycin vs NitrofurantoinLevaquin vs BactrimMacrobid vs BactrimMacrodantin vs BactrimMalarone vs BactrimMetronidazole vs AmoxicillinMinocycline vs BactrimNitrofurantoin vs AmoxicillinNitrofurantoin vs BactrimPenicillin vs BactrimSivextro vs BactrimSpectracef vs BactrimUrispas vs Nitrofurantoin
                View More

                Browse medications

                View All

                Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.