Can Blindness be Caused by Elmiron?
It has been suggested by recent studies that using Elmiron long-term can cause maculopathy. This eye disorder can result in blindness. Some of the doctors who have studied this drug have identified pigmentary maculopathy in several patients who developed the condition after they took Elmiron.
What is Elmiron?
This drug is commonly prescribed for treating interstital cystitis, which is a bladder disorder that belongs to a group of diseases that are called bladder pain syndrome and is also referred to as painful bladder syndrome. When interstital cystitis is not treated, it may cause bladder pressure and pelvic pain and bladder pain ranging from moderate pain to severe pain. This disorder affects women most frequently and can result in the sensation of having to go to the bathroom more frequently.
Although doctors are unsure of how Elmiron interacts with the human body exactly, it is believed to work through attaching to the bladder’s wall and provides a buffer against irritating substances. This can allow the drug to reduce bladder pain and pressure. Elmiron is the only drug that has been approved by the FDA for treating bladder pain syndrome or interstitial cystitis. Although the patent on Elmiron expired in 2010, lacking in substitute drugs means thousands of dollars are paid by many patients for the medication out of pocket. Janssen Pharmaceuticals, which is a Johnson & Johnson division as well as the current marketer and manufacturer of Elmiron, has not give any explanation for Elmiron’s increasing prices.
What are maculopathy’s symptoms?
Patients who have taken Elmiron and then develop maculopathy normally report vision problems as their first symptom. The following symptoms have been reported:
– Paracentral scotoma, an area of loss of vision within the field of vision
– Dimming of vision
– Difficulty with seeing close objects
– Adjusting to the dark takes a long time
– Difficulty reading
You should contact a medical professional to plan your next steps if you are experiencing any of the symptoms above. You should never stop taking a medication before you consult with a medical professional.
What is claimed in the Elmiron Maculopathy lawsuit?
Janssen Pharmaceuticals is accused by plaintiffs of failing to warn doctors and patents about the entire dangers associated with Elmiron. Although some side effects associated with taking the drug are disclosed by Janssen, the Elmiron package doesn’t include a Maculopathy warning.
Do I have a valid Elmiron case?
The best way to determine whether or not you have a valid Elmiron case is to contact a lawyer. An attorney is the best one to evaluate your case and assist you with obtaining the maximum recovery. The knowledgeable and experienced staff and lawyers at US Drug Lawsuit are here to help. We will listen carefully to your story and help you retain the best legal path forward. We offer free and confidential case evaluations. Give us a call today to learn more about the Elmiron lawsuit.