If you have been prescribed Elmiron and experienced negative side effects, you could ask your doctor for alternative medication that can effectively treat interstitial cystitis (IC). Elmiron has been cited for causing long-term and permanent vision damage in some patients.
The controversial drug also comes with other side effects like hair loss and nausea. Here are some suggestions for what you can take instead of Elmiron if you need to continue treating your IC without worry about how Elmiron will affect you.
Taking Generic Elmiron Â
At this time, there is no generic form of Elmiron available in the US. However, there are some online pharmacies that claim to have generic Elmiron. It is best to steer clear of such online drug stores; some of them are likely selling the medication illegally and have not been cleared by the FDA.
What to Take Instead of Elmiron
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are several alternative drugs you could take orally to treat interstitial cystitis. These medicines include:
- NSAIDs. These drugs are often used to relieve pain and can be purchased at your local grocery store. Ibuprofen and naproxen are effective treatments for the pain associated with IC.
- Tricyclic antidepressants. Medications like imipramine or amitriptyline can reduce pain in the bladder and make IC easier to manage.
- Antihistamines. If you normally take medications for seasonal allergies, you may notice that your IC is more manageable when you are taking antihistamines. Choose an allergy medicine with loratadine to prevent frequent urination and discomfort from IC.
Herbal Replacements for Elmiron Â
If you prefer to take an herbal approach to treating IC, there are some natural remedies you could try to get rid of the pain and discomfort normally associated with IC.
Evening primrose, a North American plant, helps to relieve bladder inflammation. The herb is high in gamma-linolenic acid and can also be used to help other health conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. You could take evening primrose oil in tea form. Drinking the tea in the evenings can relax both the body and mind so you can get a good night’s sleep. Evening primrose oil is also available in capsules.
Kava is a native Polynesian plant that relaxes the muscles in the digestive tract and has a calming and analgesic effect on the body. You could take kava in a tea or capsule to help reduce the uncomfortable feeling you may experience in the pelvic area.
Kava is also an effective herbal treatment for anxiety and insomnia. It is important not to take too much kava since the herb can be toxic when ingested in large amounts.
St. John’s wort is another herb that has been proven to relieve some of the symptoms of IC. This perennial is native to Europe and has long been a treatment for depression, anxiety, and nervous conditions. If you’re dealing with the pain and swelling that comes from IC, you may experience anxiety and stress as well.
St. John’s wort can also help eliminate nerve pain and reduce swelling associated with IC. If you are already taking an antidepressant, you should refrain from taking St. John’s wort unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
If you are considering any of these medications, be sure to speak with your physician about any natural treatments you may want to try for IC. Some of these herbal remedies could interact with your prescription medication, which could cause additional health issues and make your IC worse.
However, most medications work well with natural remedies to help you craft a personalized long-term plan for IC care.
To Wrap It Up
Elmiron has caused many unwitting patients harmful side effects that could last for a lifetime. If you live in the New York area, you could learn more about recent New York law case investigations spurred by Elmiron. This info can help you choose the best drug alternatives and give you insight into the next steps to take if you need to file a lawsuit against Elmiron maker so you can receive a fair settlement for your injuries and pain.
