Painful symptoms of interstitial cystitis (IC), otherwise known as painful bladder syndrome, may be occasional or constant. Symptoms of interstitial cystitis can mimic other conditions such as a urinary tract infection, so your doctor will conduct a thorough medical history, physical exam, urine tests, and possibly a cystoscopy (using a cystoscope to get a clear view of your bladder) to rule out other causes of your pain.

Since the causes of IC are not fully understood, your doctor will work with you closely to see what combination of therapies alleviate your symptoms. Only two treatments for IC are approved by the FDA, other medications and pain management techniques may help treat your symptoms.

FDA Approved Treatments for Interstitial Cystitis

Oral pentosan polysulfate is the only oral medication that's FDA-approved for the treatment of IC. Though it's not fully understood how it works, it is believed to prevent irritating solutes from reaching the bladder wall by sticking to it. Results are gradual and may take between 3 to 6 months of treatment.

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is another FDA approved treatment for IC which is injected directly into the bladder through a catheter. DMSO is usually administered once a week for six weeks, but people who respond well to DMSO may use it as a maintenance treatment at longer intervals (not once a week), longer term.

Some doctors combine DSMO with other medications to good effect. Heparin, which is similar to oral pentosan polysulfate, or steroids, which decrease inflammation are often combined with DSMO. Your doctor can administer a local anesthetic into your bladder if your find the procedure painful.

Off Label Treatments for Interstitial Cystitis

Although not recommended by the FDA specifically for IC treatment, there are a number of other drugs which may alleviate painful IC symptoms.

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine which may alleviate the pain. It can cause a sedative feeling, but the combination of a lesser need to urinate at night and a sedated feeling may help you get a good night sleep.

Although amitriptyline is known as an antidepressant, it has been used to treat chronic pain. It may reduce symptoms of IC by acting as an antihistamine, decreasing bladder spasm, and slowing pain signals carried by the nerves.

Heparin is another drug which can be used. Although the FDA has not yet approved heparin specifically for IC treatment, some doctors are finding that it acts similarly to pentosan polysulfate to alleviate symptoms. Heparin is injected directly into the bladder through a catheter.

Pain Management

When patients do not respond to known IC therapies, pain can be managed through pain management therapies. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, nerve blocks, moderate opiates and stronger long-acting opiates may help manage the chronic pain associated with IC. Acupuncture or other non-drug therapies may also be helpful.

Talk to your doctor about alleviating your interstitial cystitis symptoms.