Users of the drug Elmiron may be eligible to file claims against the manufacturers of the drug if they have experienced serious vision problems from use of the drug. Elmiron, or pentosan polysulfate sodium, is a popular drug manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals to treat pain in the abdomen, pelvic, and genital regions associated with the urinary tract condition Interstitial Cystitis (IC). Elmiron, which has been on the market and is frequently prescribed to patients since its approval in 1996, has been more recently studied for its’ long-term negative side effects. Researchers have found that not only is the drug not as helpful as they may have thought for treating bladder irritation, but it also may result possible loss of vision.
In 2019 the American Academy of Ophthalmology found a major link between long-term use of Elmiron and possible retinal damage, loss of vision, and blindness. Researchers with the organization found that users of Elmiron showed unusual changes to the center of their retina (the macula) which is responsible for providing clear and focused vision. Many of these users have developed maculopathy, or macular degeneration that has resulted in permanent vision loss. These users have begun to seek claims against the manufacturers of this drug, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, for failing to provide the public with accurate information about the risks of potential vision loss and associated problems.
Though Janssen Pharmaceuticals had not issued warnings about potential damage to vision, the American Academy of Ophthamology and other research organizations have found evidence that the drug can be dangerous to users’ vision. Researchers from Kaiser Permanente in Northern California found that the use of Elmiron caused retinal damage in nearly 25% of patients. The Academy of Ophthamology reported that patients might also experience additional symptoms to vision damage, including:
- Drug toxicity
- Vision loss
- Problems with vision focus and reading
- Macula. Retinal damage (maculopathy
- Difficulty adjusting to dim/dark lighting
You may or someone you know may be eligible to file a lawsuit with claims against Elmiron if they have been prescribed the drug for at least two years and developed maculopathy symptoms, eye disorders or other vision problems from taking the drug. Possible symptoms and injuries that may be eligible for claims include but are not limited to:
- Macular degeneration or maculopathy
- Vision impairment or loss
- Unilateral or bilateral blindness
- Reduced nighttime and dark light vision
- Macular dystrophy, and retinopathy.