According to a recent report, hundreds of people who have used the medication Elmiron for interstitial cystitis (IC) are now filing lawsuits. IC is a chronic bladder condition that causes urinary frequency and pelvic pain. Elmiron is the only FDA-approved treatment for IC, but it has been linked to severe side effects, including vision problems. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with IC and has taken Elmiron, you may be entitled to compensation.
What is Elmiron?
Elmiron is a medication used to treat interstitial cystitis (IC), which is a condition that causes bladder pain and frequent urination. Elmiron works by reducing the amount of urinary urgency and frequency. In some cases, people with IC can take Elmiron for long periods, up to years.
Who Makes Elmiron and Why Are They Being Sued?
Elmiron is a drug used to treat interstitial cystitis, a condition that causes urinary frequency and pelvic pain. The active ingredient in Elmiron is pentosan polysulfate sodium, which is thought to work by forming a protective coating on the bladder. Elmiron is manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson.
In 2020, the first Elmiron lawsuit was filed, alleging that the drug caused vision problems. Since then, filings for Elmiron lawsuits are nationwide by people who claim that Elmiron has caused them to develop severe eye disorders, including maculopathy, a degenerative eye disease.
Janssen has denied any link between Elmiron and vision problems, arguing that millions worldwide have safely used the drug. However, some experts have raised concerns that the active ingredient may accumulate in the retina and cause long-term damage.
What Kind of Vision Loss is Associated With Elmiron?
Elmiron can cause vision problems, including decreased night vision, decreased color vision, and blurred vision. These vision problems can be permanent. In some cases, it can lead to blindness. Specific diseases linked to Elmiron include macular degeneration, retinal maculopathy, and pigmentary maculopathy.
What To Do If You’re Experiencing Vision Problems While Taking Elmiron
If you experience vision problems while taking Elmiron, you must contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will likely want to perform some tests to determine if the medication causes vision problems or if there is another underlying condition. If it is determined that Elmiron causes vision problems, your doctor may recommend stopping the medication or adjusting the dosage. You will also likely be referred to an eye doctor to determine the precise vision loss you are experiencing. It’s important to report issues with your vision as early as possible, as macular conditions can lead to severe complications that cannot be reversed.
Bottom Line
As more and more people become aware of the potential side effects of Elmiron, we will likely see more lawsuits filed against the drug’s manufacturer. While the company may try to downplay the risks, the facts are that Elmiron has been linked to severe health problems in some users. If you have experienced any adverse effects after taking this medication, you should speak to a lawyer to discuss your legal options.
