This medication is used to treat a certain bladder
condition (interstitial cystitis). Dimethyl sulfoxide is also known as
DMSO. It is believed to reduce swelling and pain due to interstitial
cystitis and may improve blood supply to the treated area.
This medication is placed into the bladder, usually
through a tube (catheter device). The medication is kept in the bladder for
at least 15 minutes or as directed by your doctor. After this time, urinate
to remove the drug from the bladder.
This treatment is usually repeated every two weeks until
relief of symptoms occurs. Follow your doctor's instructions
carefully.
This medication is not meant to be given in any other
way such as injection into a vein, muscle, or joint. Also, DMSO should not
be placed into the bladder at the same time as any other
medications.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets
worse.
Bladder pain and discomfort may occur. A garlic-like
taste in the mouth may be noticed within minutes of placing this medication
in the bladder. This taste may last several hours, and an odor on the
breath or from the skin may be noticed for up to 3 days following use of
this medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your
doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using dimethyl sulfoxide, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- cancer of the urinary tract
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669. This medicine may be harmful if
swallowed.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as liver/kidney function,
complete blood counts, eye exams) should be done while you are using this
medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for
more details.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature away from light. Keep all
medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.