Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is the only FDA-approved bladder instillation drug for Interstitial Cystitis (IC). Possible side effects may include a burning sensation during and after instillation, and your skin and breath could smell a little of garlic for up to three days following treatment.
I did DMSO instillations after I was diagnosed in 1995. I did an instillation once a week for 6 weeks. Unfortunately the instillations did not help me but I was willing to try anything to get some relief. I would go do my DMSO bladder instillation in the late afternoon and then head to my graduate evening class smelling like garlic. If someone in my class would make a comment about the garlic smell, I would just say I had spaghetti for supper. A couple of years ago I did try to start DMSO instillations again but my bladder was not cooperating. My bladder went into “spasm overload” however, I do know that DMSO instillations have been helpful for other IC patients.
Let me know if you have had any sucess with DMSO instillations or any other instillations.
What is DMSO for bladder instillations?
Dimethyl sulfoxide is a purified preparation used in the bladder to relieve the symptoms of the bladder condition called interstitial cystitis. A catheter (tube) or syringe is used to put the solution into the bladder where it is allowed to remain for about 15 minutes. Then, the solution is expelled by urinating.
What does DMSO do for interstitial cystitis?
It is believed that DMSO can reduce swelling and pain due to Interstitial Cystitis and may improve blood supply to the treated area.
Is DMSO bladder instillation painful?
You may notice a garlic like taste in your mouth shortly after instillation of DMSO. This taste may last several hours. An odour on the breath and skin may be present for up to 72 hours. You may experience moderately to severe discomfort on administration.
What is the success rate of bladder instillation?
The average number of instillations was 12.2. Eighty-five percent of patients reported symptom improvement; 55% had no or minimal bladder symptoms after therapy.
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TREATING INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS 
Hi Michael, Years ago when I was living in Germany (where my IC began) I also did the bladder instillations. I’m not sure if it was ‘wishful thinking’ but they seemed to help… Years later when I had a recurrence and tried this approach again it did absolutely nothing. The thing that has helped me MOST of all is marshmallow root tincture. I take the dried herb (1 cup herb to 4 cups water) – let it soak for about 8 hours, strain and drink some of the tincture every morning as a preventative. If I’m suffering with a bout of IC, I take it a little more frequently. Also quercetin and vitamin A. These things have really helped and I hope they help you and others as well. Take care, Maureen in Birch Bay, WA
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Thank you for sharing. I have marshmallow root that I can make tea but I am not very good and drinking it regularly. I will definitely try to add this as a part of my daily routine. I have been having a really difficult time with increased pain. Thanks again for sharing. I really appreciate it. Hope all is well with you.
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