Overview
The purpose of this study is to assess the use of peppermint oil as a treatment for Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS).
Description
After being informed about the study and potential risks, all participants will complete validated IC/BPS symptom questionnaires for baseline screening. Once participants meet eligibility requirements and give written informed consent they will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to peppermint oil (200mg TID) or placebo (also TID). Participants will complete validated IC/BPS questionnaires and follow up surveys over 8 weeks.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Women ages 18-65 years old
- Diagnosed with IC/BPS for at least one month prior to study enrollment
Exclusion Criteria:
- Culture proven urinary tract infection within 1 month of randomization
- Gross hematuria
- Currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Unable to speak and read English
- History of allergic reaction to peppermint, coconut or enteric coating
- History of malabsorption syndrome
- History of gastroparesis
- History of gastric bypass surgery
- History of gastrointestinal, genitourinary or pelvic cancer in the last 5 years
- History of insulin dependent diabetes
- History of active urinary stone disease