Class: Urinary Analgesic
Dosage Forms: Capsule: 100 mg
Common FDA Label Indication, Dosing, and Titration.
1. Pain relief from interstitial nephritis: 100 mg po tid
Off-Label Uses. None
MOA. Pentosan is a low-molecular-weight heparin-like compound. It has anticoagulant and fibrinolytic effects. The mechanism of action of pentosan in relieving pain associated with interstitial cystitis is not known, but it has been found to adhere to the mucosal membrane of the bladder wall and may act as a buffer to control cell permeability, which prevents irritating solutes in urine from reaching the cells.
Drug Characteristics: Pentosan
Medication Safety Issues: Pentosan
Drug Interactions: Pentosan
Adverse Reactions: Pentosan
Efficacy Monitoring Parameters. Resolution of signs and symptoms of interstitial nephritis, including nocturia, urinary pain, urinary frequency, or urinary urgency.
Toxicity Monitoring Parameters. Pentosan is a low-molecular-weight heparin-like product, so monitor for bleeding complications.
Key Patient Counseling Points. Take 1 h before or 2 h after meals. Avoid NSAIDs or aspirin-containing products.
Clinical Pearls. Patients should be evaluated after 3 mo, and if treatment has not provided benefit a second 3-mo trial may be attempted (provided no adverse effects have occurred). If the patient does not respond after 6 mo, the product is not likely to provide benefit.