It is believed that Elmiron functions as a synthetic GAG layer, but the drug's mechanical action in IC is unknown. It may take up to four months to see improvement, but patients are urged to continue therapy for at least six months before discontinuing this treatment.
Pain subsides first, but a decrease in frequency often takes six to nine months.
The side effects of Elmiron include minor gastrointestinal disturbances. Some patients have also experienced hair loss that is reversible upon discontinuing the drug. There are no reports that Elmiron has any negative interactions with any other medications. In controlled trials, no adverse effect occurred more frequently with Elmiron than with placebos. Since Elmiron is metabolized by the liver, it is recommended that blood tests be performed periodically to test liver function.