Which oral medication is used to treat interstitial cystitis and may help restore bladder wall integrity?

• A. Amitriptyline
• B. Tagamet
• C. Elmiron - Pentosan polysulfate sodium
• D. Hydroxyzine

Answer: (C)

The key idea is selecting an oral therapy that directly targets the bladder’s protective lining in interstitial cystitis. Pentosan polysulfate sodium (Elmiron) is used for this purpose because it replenishes the bladder’s glycosaminoglycan (GAG) layer, helping to restore the integrity of the bladder mucosa and reduce permeability to irritating urinary substances. This mechanism addresses the underlying barrier dysfunction seen in IC, which is why it’s the most appropriate oral option for potentially improving bladder wall integrity and related symptoms like pain, urgency, and frequency.

Amitriptyline can help with IC symptoms such as pain and sleep disturbance, but it doesn’t rebuild the bladder lining. Tagamet is a stomach-related medication (an H2 blocker) and does not address bladder mucosal integrity. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine used for allergy or anxiety-related symptoms and is not a standard IC therapy for restoring the bladder wall.

So, the best answer is pentosan polysulfate sodium because it targets the bladder’s protective lining, aiming to restore integrity and reduce IC symptoms. Note that long-term therapy requires medical supervision due to potential rare risks and individual response.