The drug Elmiron – also known as pentosan polysulfate sodium, or PPS – has been linked to a condition that results in irreversible vision loss. Recent studies show a significant connection between Elmiron and damage to the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision.
If you or a loved one suffered vision loss after taking Elmiron, you may be able to file a claim against Janssen Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Elmiron. An experienced product liability attorney can help you build your case.
Dreyer Boyajian LLP has more than 30 years of experience serving clients who have suffered injury as a result of dangerous drugs and other defective products. Contact our attorneys today for a free consultation.
Elmiron is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. Also known as bladder pain syndrome, patients with interstitial cystitis experience chronic pain and pressure in and around the bladder, especially as it gets full.
Other symptoms of interstitial cystitis include:
Elmiron is one of only two drugs approved by the FDA to aid in the treatment of interstitial cystitis. It is the only FDA-approved oral medication for treating bladder pain syndrome.
The most common side effects of Elmiron reported by Janssen Pharmaceuticals include hair loss, nausea, and diarrhea. However, Elmiron lawsuits claim that the company failed to warn consumers about the risk of vision loss associated with long-term use of Elmiron.
Multiple studies have shown an increased risk of retinal pigmentary maculopathy among patients taking Elmiron. Also known as macular degeneration, maculopathy is a condition where the macula (part of the eye’s retina) is damaged, resulting in vision loss.
Maculopathy is most often characterized by a loss of central vision. Objects in the center field of vision may become blurry or dim. As the condition progresses, patients may develop blind spots in which their vision is highly distorted or completely lost.
Other symptoms associated with maculopathy include:
Concerns around Elmiron and macular degeneration first arose in 2018, when an ophthalmologist at Emory University in Atlanta identified alarming changes to the macula in patients taking Elmiron. Since then, multiple studies have found evidence that pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) can result in toxicity that damages the macula.
PPS toxicity is the only known cause of pigmentary maculopathy. Patients with this condition have abnormal pigment formations in the retina, resulting in vision impairment.
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Healthy vision is crucial to nearly all aspects of our lives. The ability to see is key to our day-to-day activities, our jobs, our hobbies, and so much more.
Interstitial cystitis patients who took Elmiron and suffered maculopathy are currently seeking damages for economic and non-economic damages stemming from vision impairment and loss. The compensation you may be able to recover depends on the specific losses you and your family have sustained.
Product liability claims involving dangerous drugs are complex. Drug manufacturers frequently contest that their product resulted in harm to consumers, making it more difficult for those who suffer adverse effects to recover the compensation they deserve.
For this reason, it is crucial to contact a dangerous drug lawyer for assistance building your claim. An experienced attorney will have the knowledge and resources to investigate what caused your injuries and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Claims against Janssen Pharmaceuticals for vision loss related to Elmiron represent an emerging area of litigation. Dreyer Boyajian LLP is currently investigating these cases. If you or a loved developed visual impairments after taking Elmiron, our team would be happy to meet with you and discuss your legal options during a free consultation.
Dreyer Boyajian LLP has been serving clients in Albany, Troy, Schenectady, Saratoga Springs, and throughout the Capital District and other areas of New York State for over 30 years. Please call (518) 463-7784 to speak with an Elmiron attorney today.