But true numbers are hard to come by, because many cases are either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. While most cases are in women, at least 10 percent of cases are in men. Although bacteria, fungi or viruses are not found in patients' urine, many researchers believe the cause may be an infectious agent that hasn't yet been identified. In clinical studies, at least 38 percent of IC patients responded to treatment with the new drug. How Elmiron relieves the bladder pain associated with IC is not known, but the hypothesis is that the drug improves the bladder's defective lining.
Some patients see results in weeks.
A few patients may take as long as six months before getting relief. If pain is not relieved in six months, the benefits of continuing treatment are unknown. A package insert for patients includes information on side effects, how to take the drug, and who should take it. IC symptoms are similar to those of a urinary tract infection. Elmiron is marketed by Baker Norton Pharmaceuticals Inc., Miami, Fla.