Elmiron Lawyer | Elmiron Lawsuit

Why are lawsuits being filed against Elmiron manufacturers?

Evidence that Elmiron is linked to permanent and serious eye damage has opened the door for affected patients to file lawsuits. These lawsuits allege that manufacturers failed to warn patients and doctors about the ocular toxicity and the risks of permanent eye damage. If you took Elmiron, you may be able to hold drug manufacturers for your eye injuries.

What is Elmiron?

Elmiron, or pentosan polysulfate sodium, is a medication used to treat pain or discomfort from a bladder disorder called interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome. This condition causes bladder pressure or pain and sometimes pain in the entire pelvic region. Elmiron theoretically works by restoring the inner surface of the bladder which protects the bladder wall from substances in urine that could irritate it. The drug is only available by doctor’s prescription and works by forming a layer on the bladder wall and protecting it from harmful/irritating substances in the urine.

In addition to bladder conditions, doctors also prescribe the drug for osteoarthritis.

What is interstitial cystitis?

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition that causes bladder pressure, bladder and some pain in the entire pelvis. Sufferers of the condition can range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain. It is part of a spectrum known as painful bladder syndrome.

Evidence linking Elmiron to eye damage

Elmiron was considered a relatively safe drug with very few risk factors or side effects. However, two years ago doctors from the Emory Eye Center began noticing abnormal damage to the eyes of six their patients. Eventually, doctors realized these patients were all taking Elmiron.

Is Elmiron the only drug available for Interstitial Cystitis?

Yes, Elmiron is the only oral medication approved by the U.S. FDA specifically to treat interstitial cystitis. Interstitial cystitis is a rare disease that occurs mostly in women. Elmiron was approved in 1996 under the Orphan Drug Act (ODA). The ODA gives special status and incentives to manufacturers of medications that treat rare diseases.

Does Elmiron Cause Blindness?

Yes. Studies have consistently linked Elmiron to damage to a part of the retina called the macula.

Are there alternatives to Elmiron?

While Elmiron is the only FDA approved oral medication, there are other coating therapies available for those who suffer interstitial cystitis. The Mayo Clinic notes the following treatments for painful bladder syndrome, including the following:

• Physical therapy
• Oral medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, tricyclic antidepressants and antihistamines
• Nerve stimulation procedures
• Bladder distentions
• Medications instilled into the bladder

In severe cases, doctors may recommend surgery. If you suffered injuries as a result of pentosan polysulfate sodium, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a qualified mass torts lawyer to help you determine your next legal steps.

Should I stop taking Elmiron?

Yes. Experts and researchers encourage users to stop taking Elmiron when and if the signs of eye disease or vision loss are present.

What injuries are associated with Elmiron?

Our Elmiron Lawyers are taking clients who have suffered vision loss and other vision problems. If you have experienced any of the following Elmiron injuries, contact a defective drug Lawyer today:

• Total vision loss
• Unilateral or bilateral blindness
• Scotoma
• Retinotherapy
• Macular retinopathy
• Metamorphopsia
• Blurred vision
• Halo vision
• Vision impairment
• Degenerative maculopathy
• Pigmentary maculopathy

Often, when patients begin noticing their symptoms, they may stop taking Elmiron to prevent further damage. However, when damage occurs to the macula, the damage is permanent. If you took Elmiron and noticed your vision failing in the following ways, it is important to contact us to make sure you receive the treatment you deserve.

Symptoms associated with Elmiron:

• Vision loss in the field vision
• Difficulty adjusting to dim light or darkness
• Difficulty reading
• Problem with seeing objects close up
• Vision dimming

What type of Retinal Maculopathy is linked to Elmiron?

Retinal maculopathy is a disease related to the center of the retina called the macula. When the macula becomes damaged, it can lead to irreversible vision loss. Maculopathy is a general term that refers to any condition that affects the retina. It is also the type of vision loss that is associated with long-term use of Elmiron.

The specific type of maculopathy linked to Elmiron is identified as pigmentary maculopathy of unknown etiology. This type of macular injury has no known cause. However, symptoms include any or all of the following:

Parafoveal pigmented deposits

This condition occurs when capillaries and small blood vessels around the macula become abnormal. Parafoveal can lead to permanent vision loss.

Vitelliform deposits

Also called adult pattern macular dystrophy, when this condition is present, round and yellowish lesions form underneath the macula.

Retinal pigment epithelium atrophy

In instances of blindness, this a common symptom of age-related macular degeneration.

Hyperpigmentation

Patients with hyperpigmented or dark on the retina may also be an indication of maculopathy.

What did Janssen Pharmaceuticals do wrong?

In 2018, researchers began documenting the irreversible damage caused by Elmiron. Janssen Pharmaceuticals lists side effects and other warnings but does not mention the risks of maculopathy. On its packaging, the company lists the following side effects:

• Alopecia (hair loss)
• Bruising
• Headaches
• Skin rash
• Sleep disorders
• Gastroesophageal reflux

Since 1996, Elmiron was the only FDA-approved drug to treat interstitial cystitis. Plaintiffs allege that had Janssen revealed that the drug was associated with blindness they may have opted not to take Elmiron. In fact, hundreds of thousands of people may have taken the drug without knowing its potential to cause permanent vision loss.

If you are one of the people who took Elmiron, contact our law firm to speak with a qualified lawyer right away. The Carlson Law Firm is handling individual Elmiron lawsuits. We will work tirelessly on your behalf to get you the relief you deserve.

Do I need an Elmiron Lawsuit Lawyer?

Yes. Elmiron users have experienced unique eye damage that leads to a decline in the quality of their lives. If a doctor prescribed you or someone you know Elmiron and either of you experienced vision loss, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

How to Contact an Elmiron Lawyer

If you or a loved one has suffered from blindness or any other kind of vision loss as a result of taking Elmiron, call an Elmiron Lawyer at 800-359-5690. The Carlson Law Firm has been representing victims of dangerous drugs like Elmiron for more than 40 years.

What should I expect when I contact an Elimiron Lawyer?

A compassionate defective drug Lawyer from The Carlson Law Firm will begin your individual lawsuit by determining the extent of your injuries. Our lawyers understand the pain you are experiencing as a result of Jenssen Pharmaceuticals’ dangerous medication. Our attorneys offer free consultations and will be with you every step of the way.

An Elmiron Lawyer from our firm can help you recover the following damages as a result of your injuries:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Mental and emotion damages
• Lost wages (past and present)
• Disability and disfigurement
• Physical therapy
• Longterm care

A successful Elmiron Lawsuit requires the experience of a skilled Mass Torts attorney, backed by a firm with the in-house resources to prove your case. The Carlson Law Firm has a team of in-house nurses, investigators and a fully staffed legal team that will be dedicated to demonstrating your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation. We are available 24/7.

The Carlson Law Firm Can Help

You have legal options if you’ve suffered vision injuries after using Elmiron. A free, no-obligation with a qualified Elmiron Lawyer can help you begin the financial recovery process. Your vision is arguably your most important sense. Vision loss severely limits your ability to earn money or participate in everyday activities. Contact us for assistance with your next legal steps.

Elmiron Lawsuit: FAQS

Is there a lawsuit for Elmiron?

Yes. Thousands of patients living with interstitial cystitis are filing lawsuits against Elmiron manufacturer Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Am I eligible to file a lawsuit for Elmiron?

Anyone who used Elmiron and developed some form of vision loss can call The Carlson Law Firm at 800-359-5690 to schedule a case evaluation. Our Elmiron Lawyers will help you file your lawsuit against Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

How long will the Elmiron Lawsuit take?

The Elmiron Lawsuit falls under an area of law called a mass tort. These types of claims are more complicated than other personal injury claims because of the number of people affected by them. Claims against Elmiron manufacturers can take years to resolve.

Can Elmiron cause blindness?

Several studies have concluded that Elmiron leaves patients who use it for extended periods at risk for developing a condition called maculopathy, an eye disorder that leads to blindness.

Is the Elmiron Lawsuit a class action?

The Carlson Law Firm is representing Elmiron clients on an individual basis. In other words, we will represent you in your own lawsuit against Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

Should I consult an attorney about an Elmiron Lawsuit?

Yes. If you have any questions concerning your claims, an Elmiron Lawyer from The Carlson Law Firm will be able to answer all of your questions regarding your potential Elmiron vision loss claim.

Is speaking with an Elmiron attorney free?

The Carlson Law Firm offers free, no-obligation case evaluations and works on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront costs for you to begin filing your lawsuit.

Still have questions? Talk to us!

Elmiron lawsuits will require the specific skills of a qualified dangerous drugs lawyer. The assistance of a qualified and experienced Elmiron attorney from The Carlson Law Firm can answer your questions. Contact us today. We are available 24/7.