Could the Common Bladder Medication Elmiron Cause Eye Damage?

Posted by paul walker on October 12th, 2022

For years, the medication Elmiron has been prescribed to treat interstitial cystitis, a chronic bladder condition. Recently, however, reports have begun to emerge linking Elmiron use with serious eye damage. If you or a loved one has taken Elmiron and experienced vision problems, you may be wondering if you have a case. Here's what you need to know about the recent reports of Elmiron Eye Damage Lawsuit and what your legal options might be.

What is Elmiron?

Elmiron is the brand name for pentosan polysulfate sodium, a medication that has been used to treat interstitial cystitis since 1996. Interstitial cystitis is a chronic inflammation of the bladder walls that can cause urinary frequency, urgency, and pelvic pain. While the exact cause of interstitial cystitis is not known, it is thought to be related to an imbalance in the protective glycosaminoglycan (GAG) layer that lines the bladder. Elmiron works by replenishing levels of GAG in the bladder, which helps to reduce symptoms.

What are the Reports of Elmiron Eye Damage?

In recent years, reports have begun to emerge linking Elmiron use with possible vision problems. These reports largely come from patients who have taken Elmiron for years without any issues and then suddenly begin experiencing progressive vision loss, blurry vision, trouble adjusting to changes in light, and tinted or dark areas in their field of vision. Many of these patients also report experiencing these symptoms in both eyes simultaneously. While doctors are still trying to determine exactly how Elmiron might be causing these vision problems, it is thought that the medication might cause damage to the retina or macula—the part of the eye responsible for central vision.

What Are Your Legal Options?

If you or someone you love has taken Elmirin and experienced vision problems as a result, you may be wondering what your legal options are. Currently, there are no class action lawsuits against the makers of Elmiron; however, individual lawsuits are being filed on behalf of patients who have suffered serious side effects. These lawsuits allege that Janssen Pharmaceuticals—a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson—knew or should have known about the potential risks associated with Elmiron but failed to warn patients or doctors. If you believe you have a case, it's important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Conclusion:

The potential link between Elmiron and eye damage is still being investigated by doctors and researchers; however, if you or someone you love has taken this medication and experienced vision problems as a result, it's important to know that you may have legal options available to you. If you think you may have a case against Janssen Pharmaceuticals—the subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson that manufactures Elmiron—it's important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible who can help explain your rights and options under the law.