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Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) Bladder Irrigation

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is a liquid solution that treats pain and discomfort in your bladder caused by interstitial cystitis, also known as bladder pain syndrome. A healthcare provider will give you this solution as an injection into your bladder in a hospital or clinic setting. The brand name of this medication is Rimso-50®.

What is this medication?

DIMETHYL SULFOXIDE (dye meth il suhl FOK sahyd) relieves the symptoms of bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis). It works by protecting your bladder from substances in the urine that may irritate it.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Rimso-50

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Bladder cancer
  • Cataracts
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to dimethyl sulfoxide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is given by a catheter or syringe infusion into the bladder. It is given by your care team in a hospital of clinic setting. Try to hold this medication in your bladder for 15 minutes after treatment.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

Keep appointments for follow-up doses as directed. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better of if they get worse.

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

Your vision may be tested before and during use of this medication.

You may need blood work while taking this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Change in vision

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Bladder irritation
  • Change in taste

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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