[Interstitial cystitis: drug therapy]

The present job reviews the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic and treatment of interstitial cystitis. An exhaustive revision is made of all the possibilities of pharmacological treatment with a special mention to the two major drugs: dimethylsulfoxide and pentosampolysulphate. A critical judgement of existing clinical trials is made. The conclusion indicates the need of more controlled experimental work in the future to allow a more objective determination of the most appropriate and effective therapy for these patients.