Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) is a mild blood-thinner prescribed to treat bladder pain caused by interstitial cystitis, or bladder inflammation.
Elmiron is approved for 300 mg doses in those 16 or older, but is often prescribed for up to 1,500 mg per day for severe symptoms of IC.
The FDA approved Elmiron in 1996, and it has been prescribed to millions of people since as the only oral medication to treat bladder pain or discomfort associated with IC.
Unfortunately, recent studies show patients taking Elmiron may have a higher risk of developing a rare but serious eye disease called retinal maculopathy. Similar to macular degeneration, this condition alters pigment cells in the retina, causing significant eye dysfunction and vision loss.
And, doctors warn that most people who’ve suffered retinal maculopathy may have been misdiagnosed with macular degeneration, meaning they don’t even know the drug was the cause.
Unfortunately, however, the company gave no prior warnings about the cancer risks, putting thousands of patients at risk. Therefore, anyone affected may be entitled to substantial compensation.
Elmiron Lawsuits Details
Before publishing their study in The Journal of Ophthalmology, doctors at the Emory Eye Center reviewed early clinical trials of Elmiron performed by the manufacturer, Janssen Pharmaceutica.
They found that in an unmasked clinical trial of nearly 2,500 patients taking Elmiron, researchers noted both vision loss and eye related side effects.
Specifically, the clinical trials informed Janssen that certain patients developed optic neuritis and retinal hemorrhage while taking Elmiron.
Although Janssen had this information for more than 20 years, the company never added any warnings to Elmiron’s label, or conducted any further research to explore if there was a way to explain how Elmiron could cause such serious eye disorders.
Instead, they ignored the risks, continuing to earn billions of dollars selling Elmiron. Now, they face thousands of lawsuits from patients that suffered severe eye disease. If you are among those affected, contact us today for more information about filing a claim.
If you or a loved one have suffered eye disease or vision loss after taking the IC drug Elmiron, it’s important to find out if your medication was a factor.
Our qualified Elmiron lawyers will fully investigate your case, reviewing your medical records, pharmacy records and recent studies that your doctor may not normally discuss. However, there’s only a limited amount of time to file a claim.
DrugNews works only with attorneys and law firms that have successfully handled thousands of pharmaceutical injury lawsuits against the largest companies. And, we make it easy to speak directly with a lawyer or patient advocate to learn all about your legal options.
You won’t pay anything unless you receive an award. Our qualified lawyers can handle most aspects of your case without you ever having to leave your home or attend court hearings.
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