Thrombocid

Indications

Pentosan polysulfate sodium taken by mouth is used to relieve bladder pain and discomfort in interstitial cystitis, also called bladder pain syndrome (a long-term condition with bladder pain, pressure and frequent urination). As a gel or ointment applied to the skin, it is used for bruises, swelling and superficial vein inflammation (superficial thrombophlebitis).

How It Works

When taken by mouth, part of the medicine passes into the urine and is thought to coat and repair the protective inner lining of the bladder, so irritating substances in urine cause less pain. It also has a mild blood-thinning (anticoagulant) and anti-inflammatory action, which helps bruises and swollen veins settle when it is applied to the skin.

Dosage and Administration

Capsules: the usual adult dose is 100 mg three times daily, taken with water at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Benefit often takes 3 to 6 months; your doctor will review whether to continue. Skin gel or ointment: apply to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily and spread gently, as directed on the label. Do not apply to broken skin or open wounds.

Interactions

• Warfarin, Heparin and other anticoagulants: higher bleeding risk.
• Aspirin, Clopidogrel and other antiplatelet medicines: higher bleeding risk.
• NSAID painkillers such as Ibuprofen: higher bleeding risk.
• Alteplase and other clot-dissolving medicines: higher bleeding risk.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Pentosan polysulfate or similar substances.
• Active bleeding, or a bleeding disorder.
• Previous low platelets caused by Heparin or Pentosan polysulfate.
• Skin products: on open wounds, broken or infected skin.

Side Effects

With capsules, possible side effects include diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain, headache, hair thinning, rash, easy bruising and raised liver tests. Long-term use has been linked to a pigment change in the retina at the back of the eye (pigmentary maculopathy), which can affect vision. Skin products rarely cause local redness or itching.

Get urgent medical help if you have signs of bleeding such as blood in urine or stools, black stools, vomiting blood, nosebleeds that will not stop, or if you notice changes in vision such as difficulty reading, dim vision or trouble adjusting to the dark, or signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is limited information in pregnancy, so capsules should only be used if your doctor considers it clearly needed. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk; speak to your doctor before breastfeeding. Skin use on small areas is less of a concern but should still be discussed with a doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

• Have an eye examination before starting and regularly during long-term treatment, and report any vision changes.
• Tell your doctor about liver problems, stomach ulcers, aneurysm, or planned surgery or dental work.
• Your doctor may check liver tests and blood counts.

Overdose

An overdose may cause bleeding, stomach upset and liver problems. Seek medical help at once.

Therapeutic Class

Urinary tract analgesic (bladder lining protectant) and weak anticoagulant; topical anti-inflammatory for bruising.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.