Elmiron or pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) is prescribed to treat pain and discomfort linked to interstitial cystitis (IC), which is a chronic bladder condition. The drug has been prescribed for many years; however, new studies link long-term Elmiron use to potential retinal damage, blindness, and vision loss. Those who took the drug showed unusual changes to their macula, which is the center of the retina that gives clear, focused vision. Users of the drug are at risk of developing maculopathy, a disease that can cause permanent vision damage. If you are one of them, you may be eligible to take part in an Elmiron vision loss lawsuit. Get in touch with an injury attorney as soon as possible to learn about your eligibility and the steps you must take to pursue compensation.
How Elmiron May Blindness
Before June 2020, the prescribing information for Elmiron given by Janssen Pharmaceuticals listed the side effects and warnings of the drug; however, did not warn about the risks of retinal pigmentary maculopathy. The product’s current information lists a warning about retinal pigmentary changes. In 2018, studies were started to document irreversible issues associated with the long-term use of Elmiron.
The macular is the retina’s backside. The retina senses light and sends a signal to the brain, letting people see. Retinal damage can impact an individual’s vision. Maculopathy is one of the most common causes of blindness.
The kind of maculopathy associated with Elmiron is known as pigmentary maculopathy. Researchers claim that this kind of maculopathy is unique to those who use Elmiron. The damage can be resolved by taking medications when discovered in its early stages. However, in its late stages, the disease can result in permanent vision loss.
Do You Qualify for an Elmiron Lawsuit?
A lot of attorneys are accepting cases from those who took Elmiron for a minimum of two years and suffered vision issues. Such issues should have stated while taking the drug or within a year of stopping the treatment. Injuries in lawsuits include degenerative maculopathy, halo vision, blurred vision, maculopathy, macular retinopathy, reduced night vision, pigmentary maculopathy, vision loss, vision impairment, and more.
Victims who want to file a lawsuit should be open with their lawyer about how their vision issues have affected their ability to do some daily activities. Also, the attorney will need to know about the emotional took these vision issues have taken on the victim.