Uses
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.
How To Use
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.
Inform your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects
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.
Precautions
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 breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
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.
Overdose
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 their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
Notes
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.
Missed Dose
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.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. 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.
