Clinical response to an oral prostaglandin analogue in patients with interstitial cystitis.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the efficacy of the oral prostaglandin analogue misoprostol in controlling the symptoms of interstitial cystitis in patients with refractory disease.


METHODS
Twenty-five patients were commenced on misoprostol 600 micrograms daily for 3 months. Patients who responded to therapy were offered treatment for a further 6 months. Assessment of the response was by a voiding log and an interstitial cystitis symptom score.


RESULTS
At 3 months, 14 patients (56%) had significantly improved, and after a further 6 months, 12 patients (48%) had a sustained response. The incidence of adverse drug effects was 64%. Most side effects were minimal, and the response rate in patients who were able to tolerate the drug was 87% at 3 months and 75% at 9 months.


CONCLUSIONS
The oral prostaglandin analogue misoprostol is effective in treating the symptoms of interstitial cystitis. It is possible that prostaglandins have a cytoprotective action in the urinary bladder.
Department of Urology, Belfast City Hospital, Northern Ireland.
J D
JD
Kelly
M R
MR
Young
S R
SR
Johnston
P F
PF
Keane
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D018856:Cystitis, Interstitial / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016595:Misoprostol / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects
D016595:Misoprostol