Stomach problems from Elmiron

[Teddysmom]

I need some advice re: Elmiron. I took it for two weeks, and it caused severe gastritis. It's been a month off the drug and I am still suffering the effects of the Elmiron. The dr. wants to do an upper GI, (barium drink) and my question is, can this have a bad effect on the bladder? I am already on prilosec for the gastritis, which is not good for my bladder. Has anyone ever had an upper GI, and did it harm them? I'm kinda leary of anything drs. suggest for me now but I don't think I have a choice.
Thank you.

[tbokay]

I had a GI scope done twice when I had gallbladder problems 6 yrs ago.

I also had problems with Elmiron. I took it for 3 wks in Dec 2004 - and ended up spending New Years very ill and hospitalized for the vomiting and bladder infection. It took a couple of weeks to feel better from taking it.

I took Protonix for a month in May/June for possible GERD - that seemed to help me alot and haven't had much trouble with heartburn since.

Good luck with your scope and I hope you feel better soon.

[emilyrose197377]

I don't know If the test would effect your bladder or not. I am so sorry you are still having problems with your stomach.

:grouphug:

[Katrina]

I don't think upper GI's have hurt my bladder...and Prilosec normally helps my IC. If it really is there are other meds out there. Hope you get some answers and relief.
:grouphug:

[fullcircle]

Hi,

I can tell you that I have been on Elmiron now since may of 07 when I first dx with IC. In the past 3 months, I have been in remission from IC, to the point where I can drink low acid OJ, eat a tangerine, have a small serving of yogurt, and have a cup of Euromild coffee. It seems my bladder switched places with my bowels! I have quite a bit of gas, and bloating. Sometimes my abdomen, stomach bloats so much it looks like I am 6-7 months pregnant. I feel very full and uncomfortable. I have urgency to have a bowl movement in the morning and it isn't normal. I eat healthy, and exercise and practice holistic health. I am beginning to think it is caused by the Elmiron. I have been flare free since October of 07, so I am beginning to decrease my medication from 300 mg. to 200 mg and then eventually ( if I am still flare free in another month go down to 100mg and then off. I'm going to try Cystoprek instead.

I do not drink alcohol, smoke, drink sodas and do my best to avoid foods that cause flares. I eat organic foods, I have used chinese medicine (herbs) and acupuncture. I practice Tai Chi and exercise and practice stress management. Heating pads and hot baths are wonderful too! I use tums and prerelief prophylactically when going out to dinner. I do not use pain medication unless I am in a severe flare. I refuse to use Elavil and Lyriac and Nerontin because of the "doped" up feeling I get and weight gain terrifies me. especially since I have this horrible bloating. In one year, this disease has brought me to a point where I don't even recognize my body anymore.

I apologize for the lengthyness of this note, just trying to help you, myself and others put the puzzle together and find out why this is happening. I have an apt with a G.I. doc in the next month who is also familiar with IC at OHSU. I 'll let you know what happens. Good Luck!