If you or someone you love has experienced vision problems after receiving Elmiron to treat a bladder condition, you may want to speak to an attorney at The Joel Bieber Firm. Elmiron has recently been linked to macular degeneration and maculopathy, an eye disease affecting the retina.
Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium)
Elmiron is intended to ease discomfort in patients suffering from interstitial cystitis, a painful bladder condition. Pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS), is the active ingredient in Elmiron and is currently manufactured by Janssen, a pharmaceutical company of Johnson & Johnson. Urologists commonly prescribed Elmiron to guard against irritation and discomfort caused by bladder conditions.
Elmiron use linked to macular degeneration
Recently, medical research has linked Elmiron to macular degeneration. Macular degeneration or maculopathy affects the macula. Responsible for producing accuracy in vision, the macula is part of the retina. In a study conducted at Emory University, researchers discovered a significant link between retinal maculopathy and patients being treated for interstitial cystitis, or painful bladder conditions. Utilizing advanced retinal imaging, researchers found a dangerously high rate of macular degeneration among bladder patients. In the study, all those affected were women.
Kaiser health care and scientists at UCLA found the same dangerous link. Patients taking Elmiron suffered macular degeneration at a high rate, and the longer the patient was treated with the drug, the more likely the incidence of eye disease.
Prior to the studies out of Emory, Kaiser, and UCLA, it is believed that many physicians treated patients for age-related macular degeneration and macular/pattern dystrophy. However, the studies reveal what is likely a unique retinal injury caused by the drug.
What are the symptoms of the disease caused by Elmiron?
Patients suffering from Elmiron-induced retinal disease may have difficulty with simple tasks that require keen vision. Reading, handiwork, and using a mobile phone may prove frustrating.
Patients may also have trouble adjusting to dim lighting or transitioning from bright to dim light. Other vision problems include blurred vision (typically in the center of the field of vision), lines appearing curved or squiggly (a condition called Metamorphopsia), and a lack of visual vibrance.
If you were treated with Elmiron and are suffering from any of the following, you may deserve compensation for your drug-related injury:
- Loss of vision
- Blurry vision
- Lines appear curved/squiggly
- Colors appear less vibrant
- Difficulty reading
- Difficulty adjusting from dim to bright light
Lawsuits Filed for Elmiron Patients Suffering Vision Loss
In both state and federal courts, suits have been filed alleging that Elmiron manufacturers withheld data from the FDA and willfully injured patients. Further, these suits allege that the pharmaceutical company failed to warn patients and doctors of the risk of macular degeneration in an effort to maximize profits from the sale of Elmiron.
Take Action Today
It is illegal and immoral to put profits ahead of patients. The Joel Bieber Firm fights for the rights of patients who suffer from the neglect and greed of drug companies.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with macular degeneration, or suffer from vision loss following the use of Elmiron to treat bladder conditions, contact The Joel Bieber Firm as soon as possible. Consultations may lead to compensation from Janssen Pharmaceuticals for related medical and other expenses.
Further, many states recognize a claim known as Loss of Consortium. Loss of Consortium refers to the damage caused to marriage by another’s misconduct. In states that recognize the such loss, spouses of patients who may have suffered as a result of these complications may join the Elmiron lawsuit and may also be entitled to compensation. Cases involving the loss of vision to a spouse can result in significant damages.
As always, consultations with a member of The Joel Bieber Firm is free. Don’t delay. Let us know how we can help you recover from your loss.