What is Dimethyl sulfoxide?
Dimethyl sulfoxide can be used to relieve pain and swelling associated with bladder or urinary problems, including cystitis. Dimethyl sulfoxide is not effective in treating a urinary infection. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of dimethyl sulfoxide.
Side effects of Dimethyl sulfoxide
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing and swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat. Seek medical assistance immediately. If you experience severe pain or irritation while the medication is being inserted or held in your bladder, tell your caregivers. Repeated treatments may make this less obvious. While receiving dimethylsulfoxide, you may experience a taste similar to onion or garlic. You may notice this effect for several hours following the administration of dimethyl sulfoxide. It may also be noticeable on your skin or breath. This is a common side effect and should not be a cause for alarm. There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contacting the FDA in regards to potential side effects is also easy - call them on their toll free line: 1-800-FDA-1088 and report any adverse reactions you notice.
Similar/related drugs
Amoxicillin, Ciprofloxacin, Cephalexin, Levofloxacin, Nitrofurantoin, Keflex, and Phenazopyridine
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, allergies, and medicines.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to dimethyl sulfoxide, it is best not to use this treatment.
Inform your physician immediately of any of the following conditions:
- Cancer of the bladder or kidney
- Vision problems
Dimethyl sulfoxide is not known to harm unborn babies. Inform your doctor immediately if you are expecting or intending to become pregnant. Breast-feeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.
How to take Dimethyl sulfoxide?
The dimethyl sulfoxide will be injected into your bladder with a syringe or catheter inserted in the urethra. (the tube that allows you to pass urine from your bladder) This medicine will be administered by a healthcare provider in a clinic. You will need to wait 15 minutes after dimethyl sulfoxide has been placed in the bladder before you can empty it. You may receive anesthesia before dimethyl sulfoxide treatment if you have severe bladder cystitis.You will usually receive dimethyl sulfate every two weeks until you feel better. Do not forget to follow your doctor's instructions.You may be prescribed other medications by your doctor to treat bladder spasms or pain. You should read the patient instructions or medication guide that comes with your medicine.Blood and urine tests may be required frequently.You may need to undergo eye examinations before and after treatment, as dimethyl sulfoxide is known to cause damage to your eyes.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for cystitis:
The medication will be expelled spontaneously by voiding after 15 minutes. Repeat every two weeks until the symptoms are relieved.
Duration: The time intervals between treatments can be increased.
Use: To relieve symptoms of interstitial cystitis
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are unable to attend your appointment, call your doctor and ask for instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
As dimethyl sulfoxide injections are administered into the bladder and not the bloodstream, as is the case with other drugs, it is unlikely that an overdose will occur.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you take are unlikely to affect dimethyl sulfoxide. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
