Elmiron Vision Loss
Between 4 and 12 million people may suffer from interstitial cystitis. Interstitial cystitis is a painful bladder syndrome with no known cure. However, there are treatments available to help lessen the pain. One treatment is linked to some serious undisclosed side effects. Elmiron vision loss lawsuits seek to help those harmed by this medication.
Elmiron – The Only FDA Treatment
There is only one FDA-approved drug to combat painful interstitial cystitis. Elmiron. But, Elmiron is linked with patients going blind. There have been several side effects after use of this medicine including loss of vision.
Janssen Pharmaceuticals
Lawsuits are already underway against the manufacturer of Elmiron – Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Here is the information you need to know about Elmiron and associated vision loss:
What is Elmiron?
Elmiron is a medication that is made up of pentosan polysulfate sodium—or otherwise known as PPS. It is used to treat interstitial cystitis, and severe bladder or pelvic pain.
Pigmentary Maculopathy
Over time, scientists have found a direct link between Elmiron and pigmentary maculopathy. Pigmentary maculopathy is one of the leading causes of blindness. The symptoms can include:
- sensitivity to light
- loss of low-light visibility
- blurred vision
- gradual loss of vision
Unfortunately, pigmentary maculopathy is preventable but irreversible. There are treatments available, but there is no cure for pigmentary maculopathy. Patients taking Elmiron weren’t warned of the danger of possible blindness.
The Risks
Although Elmiron assists with relieving bladder pain, the risks may outweigh the benefits. Many studies have shown a positive connection between its use and vision loss. Whether reading or daily eyesight, the vision begins to wane.
The Structure of the Retina
Elmiron has been found to change the structure of the retinal pigment mechanism. The medication creates this issue without the issue originally being present in the patient.
Elmiron Side Effects
Here is a list of other potentially dangerous side effects Elmiron patients may experience:
- retinal maculopathy
- pigmentary maculopathy
- patter dystrophy
- blindness (in either one or both eyes)
- visual disturbances
- macular degeneration
- blurred vision
Product Liability
Prescription drug manufacturers have a legal duty to ensure their products are safe for people. The area of law that deals with this is “product liability” law. Patients depend on manufacturers, distributors and physicians to be transparent and keep them safe. This is especially true for prescription medications that people depend on.
Elmiron Manufacturer
Janssen Pharmaceuticals is alleged to have intentionally hidden the dangers of Elmiron. The lawsuits against them state that they failed to properly notify physicians of the dangerous, life-changing side effects.
Are you an Elmiron User?
Have you or a loved one used Elmiron and suffering from loss of vision? You may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
You have the right to know the side effects of the medicine you are prescribed. Call us today to discuss the details of your case.