DMSO

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. By inhibiting free-radical production, DMSO is thought to reduce inflammation and pain. It also aids in the absorption of other bladder-instilled medicines.  

Dosage & Treatment Plan
The liquid form of DMSO, RIMSO-50, is FDA approved for treating IC. A 50% solution of DMSO is instilled intravesically, meaning that the drug is placed, via catheter, directly into the bladder. It is then held in the bladder for 10 to 20 minutes. This procedure is typically performed in a physician’s office.

IC patients initially receive a series of DMSO treatments. One treatment is given every one or two weeks for four to eight treatments, depending on the patient’s response to the medicine. After this initial series, many patients find some relief, both in pain and frequency. Additional treatments may be necessary, should symptoms recur.

DMSO treatments should not be started until 3 to 4 weeks after IC diagnostic cystoscopy with hydrodistention. This waiting period ensures that bladder biopsy sites have healed. Improvement may not be seen until the third or fourth treatment.

Some patients find they need only one DMSO instillation when a "flare-up" arises. It is best to schedule a treatment as soon as symptoms begin to recur, rather than waiting until symptoms have intensified.

Potential Side Effects
A strong garlic-like taste or smell may be present for 24 hours after DMSO instillation. Many patients don’t notice this odor, though anyone in close proximity to the patient may detect it. Patients may experience a temporary worsening of bladder symptoms lasting 24 to 72 hours after treatment. Also, some patients have reported short-lived flu-like symptoms after DMSO treatment.

Some patients experience pain during treatment, which may subside with repeated instillations. If you experience pain during treatment:

• Ask your physician to prescribe anticholinergics, bladder analgesics, or B&O suppositories to be used prior to instillation.
• Request a pediatric catheter for the instillation.
• Apply an analgesic gel such as lidocaine to the urethra prior to catheter insertion.
• Ask you doctor about inserting a numbing agent such as lidocaine or bupivacaine hydrochloride (Marcaine) into the bladder before DMSO instillation.

DMSO combined with other medicines such as heparin, steroids, bicarbonate and analgesics, may be referred to as a "bladder cocktail."

Pregnancy & Children
No controlled studies have been done on the use of DMSO during pregnancy or lactation. The manufacturer of the product does not recommend its use during pregnancy. No studies have been done on the safety and effectiveness of DMSO instillations in children.

You or your physician can get more information on RIMSO-50 by calling toll-free 888-258-4199 or visiting www.bionichepharmausa.com.

 

Revised November 28, 2008