The medicines below all contain the following active ingredient(s): pentosan polysulfate sodium. You can select a medicine from this list to find out more - including side effects, age restrictions, food interactions and whether the medicine is subsidised by the government on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS).
Safety advice: Risk of pigmentary maculopathy (changes in the retina of the eye), especially after long-term use
A warning has been issued in consultation with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) about pigmentary maculopathy, or changes in the retina of the eye, for pentosan polysulfate sodium. This is considered a rare side effect.
Pentosan polysulfate sodium is used to treat bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis) and is marketed in Australia under the brand name Elmiron. People may take the medicine for many years for ongoing relief of symptoms associated with the syndrome.
Information for consumers
If you or someone you provide care for takes pentosan polysulfate sodium (Elmiron), be aware of this new safety information. You may require regular eye examinations to help monitor for changes to your retina. If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, talk to your doctor or other health professional.
More information: For more details and the latest updates, see TGA's alert on Pentosan polysulfate sodium (Elmiron).
