The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Appraisal Committee has published a draft final appraisal regarding Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) for bladder pain syndrome.

The organisation recommended that the drug is used in accordance with specified considerations, as the only licensed oral medication for BPS with glomerulations or Hunner’s lesions – also known as interstitial cystitis/BPS.

Elmiron is thought to work by restoring a damaged, thin, or “leaky” bladder surface which has a coating of mucus which protects the bladder wall from bacteria and irritating substances in urine. It is believed that the drug functions as a synthetic GAG layer, but its exact mechanism of action in IC/BPS is unclear.

Mr Jonathan Goddard, consultant urological surgeon, Leicester General Hospital commented on the draft guidance, saying “BPS is a chronic condition and difficult to treat, and patients often try several treatments before finding one that is effective. It’s crucial that clinicians have access to a range of treatments; Elmiron is effective and well-tolerated, and should be an available option.”

The recommendation came after Consilient Health agreed a Patient Access Scheme with NICE which makes Elmiron available to the National Health Service (NHS).