Pentosan capsules

What is this medicine?

PENTOSAN (PEN toe san) is used to treat the bladder pain or discomfort caused by interstitial cystitis.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. Do not take with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• changes in vision

• signs and symptoms of bleeding such as bloody or black, tarry stools; red or dark-brown urine; spitting up blood or brown material that looks like coffee grounds; red spots on the skin; unusual bruising or bleeding from the eye, gums, or nose

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• dizziness

• hair loss

• headache

• nausea

• upset stomach

What may interact with this medicine?

• aspirin, especially in higher doses

• certain medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin, enoxaparin, dalteparin, apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban

• clopidogrel

• dipyridamole

• NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen

• ticlopidine

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding disorders

• bleeding in the brain

• eye disease, vision problems

• history of low blood counts caused by a medicine

• liver disease

• stomach or intestine problems

• take medicines that treat or prevent blood clots

• an unusual or allergic reaction to pentosan, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your healthcare professional for regular checks on your progress. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine. Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine. It is important not to miss any appointments.

Tell your health care professional right away if you have any change in your eyesight. Your vision may be tested before and during use of this medicine.

This medicine may increase your risk to bruise or bleed. Call your health care professional if you notice any unusual bleeding.

Avoid sports and activities that might cause injury while you are using this medicine. Severe falls or injuries can cause unseen bleeding. Be careful when using sharp tools or knives. Consider using an electric razor. Take special care brushing or flossing your teeth. Report any injuries, bruising, or red spots on the skin to your healthcare professional.

If you are going to need surgery or a procedure, tell your healthcare professional that you are using this medicine.