Elmiron Class Action Attorney: Cleveland

Have You Taken the Medication Elmiron and Now Suffer with Vision Problems? You are Not Alone!

The prescription drug Elmiron, developed by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, is a commonly prescribed blood thinner. This medication is used treat interstitial cystitis.

Elmiron has been shown to cause a very serious eye condition called retinal maculopathy. This has lead to numerous Elmiron lawsuits.

Retinal maculopathy causes the pigment cells in the retina of the eye to change color.  As such, significant vision loss may occur.  This condition is similar to another eye condition called macular degeneration.

Sadly, Elmiron eye issues can show up even after a person discontinues taking the drug!

Why Would Someone Be Prescribed Elmiron?

Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) is an oral prescription medication primarily used to treat interstitial cystitis, a painful bladder syndrome. This condition is characterized by pelvic pain, urinary urgency, and frequency. It is the only FDA-approved oral medication specifically indicated for interstitial cystitis.

Elmiron works by forming a protective coating on the bladder wall, which helps to alleviate the symptoms associated with interstitial cystitis. It is believed to accomplish this by reducing inflammation and preventing irritating substances in the urine from reaching the sensitive tissues of the bladder.

Why Elmiron Cause Retinal Maculopathy?

The Janssen Pharmaceuticals drug Elmiron has been associated with a rare but serious side effect known as retinal maculopathy or pigmentary maculopathy. The exact reasons behind this side effect are not fully understood, but there are several factors that have been proposed as potential contributors:

Drug Accumulation

Elmiron is believed to accumulate in the retina over time. Prolonged use and high cumulative doses of Elmiron may increase the likelihood of retinal toxicity.

Retinal Cell Damage

It is hypothesized that Elmiron may cause toxic effects on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a layer of cells that support the function of the retina. The damage to RPE cells can lead to the development of retinal maculopathy.

Oxidative Stress

Elmiron may induce oxidative stress in retinal tissues, leading to cellular damage. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the ability of the body’s antioxidant defenses to neutralize them.

This Janssen Pharmaceuticals product is a prescription drug that helps with Interstitial Cystitis. It is very possible that you were prescribed Elmiron if you suffered from this painful bladder syndrome. If after taking this drug, you suffered from a retinal disease, you need to call me today. I will determine if you can participate in a class action lawsuit, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Symptoms Of Retinal Maculopathy?

Retinal maculopathy associated with Elmiron use may present with the following symptoms:

Blurred Vision

Blurred vision refers to a loss of sharpness or clarity in eyesight, resulting in difficulty seeing fine details or objects appearing hazy or out of focus. In retinal maculopathy, blurred vision can occur due to damage to the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.

Difficulty Reading

Difficulty reading involves challenges in perceiving and understanding written text. In retinal maculopathy, damage to the macula can lead to impaired central vision, making it harder to read or recognize words, particularly when focusing on small print or fine details.

Visual Distortions

Visual distortions involve the perception of distorted or skewed images, such as straight lines appearing wavy or bent. Damage to the macula can disrupt normal vision processing, leading to distortions in the visual field.

Dark Spots or Blind Spots

Dark spots or blind spots refer to areas of the visual field where there is a partial or complete absence of vision. In retinal maculopathy the formation of dark spots or blind spots, impacting central vision.

Color Vision Changes

Color vision changes involve alterations in the perception of colors, such as colors appearing less vibrant or faded. The macula which plays a crucial role in color perception.

Treatment for Retinal Maculopathy

The treatment options for retinal maculopathy associated with Elmiron use are currently limited, and the primary approach involves discontinuing Elmiron. There are no specific medications or therapies approved for directly treating retinal maculopathy. It’s crucial to consult with an eye care specialist for personalized recommendations and to discuss potential off-label treatment options, which may include:

Discontinuation of Elmiron

The first step in managing retinal maculopathy is discontinuing the use of Elmiron. Stopping further exposure to Elmiron may help prevent the progression of retinal toxicity. Possible side effects of discontinuation may include the recurrence or worsening of interstitial cystitis symptoms for which Elmiron was originally prescribed.

Supportive Care

Supportive care involves managing the symptoms and promoting overall eye health. This may include regular eye examinations, nutritional supplements (e.g., antioxidants and vitamins), and lifestyle modifications. Side effects of supplements are generally minimal, but may include gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in rare cases.

Referral to Retinal Specialist

Referral to a retinal specialist is crucial for the ongoing monitoring of retinal health and any potential treatment advancements. The eye disease specialist may provide additional recommendations based on the individual case and the latest research. The side effects associated with retinal procedures or treatments would depend on the specific interventions employed. These include intravitreal injections or laser therapies, and should be discussed with the retinal specialist.

Issues Living With Permanent Vision Loss

Living with permanent vision loss can present various challenges and difficulties. Here are some common difficulties associated with this condition:

Impaired Mobility and Navigation

Vision loss can make it challenging to navigate and move around independently. Tasks such as walking, using stairs, crossing streets, and identifying obstacles become more difficult, requiring reliance on other senses or assistive devices like canes or guide dogs.

Difficulty with Daily Activities

Performing daily activities such as reading, writing, cooking, or personal grooming may become more challenging or require adaptations. Visual information and cues that are typically relied upon become inaccessible. This may necessitate alternative techniques such as using braille, assistive technology, or adaptive strategies.

Reduced Independence

Vision loss can lead to a decreased sense of independence and reliance on others for assistance. This can impact one’s ability to accomplish tasks, access information, or participate fully in social and recreational activities without support or accommodations.

Emotional Impact

Coping with permanent vision loss can lead to emotional challenges such as grief, frustration, anxiety, or depression. Adjusting to the loss of visual abilities, lifestyle changes, and potential limitations may require emotional support, counseling, or joining support groups.

Social Isolation and Communication

Vision loss can affect social interactions and communication, making it difficult to recognize facial expressions, body language, or visual cues. This may result in feelings of isolation, difficulty engaging in conversations, or challenges participating in social events or activities.

Impact on Employment and Education

Vision loss can impact career choices, job performance, or educational pursuits. Accommodations and assistive technology may be necessary to ensure equal access and opportunities in the workplace or educational settings.

Safety Concerns

Vision loss can introduce safety risks, both indoors and outdoors. Hazards such as uneven surfaces, obstacles, or traffic become more difficult to perceive, increasing the need for safety precautions and environmental modifications to minimize accidents or injuries.

Living Expenses With Permanent Vision Loss

Living with permanent vision loss can introduce various expenses in different areas of life. Here are some examples of expenses that individuals with vision loss may encounter:

Home Modifications

Modifying the home environment to accommodate vision loss may involve expenses such as installing additional lighting, tactile markers, and non-slip surfaces. Also helpful are adaptive technologies like talking thermostats, accessible appliances, or voice-activated systems. Renovations to create a more accessible living space or adding assistive devices like screen-reading software for computers can be costly.

Assistive Devices and Technology

Purchasing specialized assistive devices and technologies can be necessary to facilitate independent living. These may include screen readers, magnification devices, braille displays, talking watches or clocks, accessible smartphones or tablets, and other adaptive equipment. The cost of these devices can vary depending on the specific needs and functionalities required.

Transportation Expenses

Individuals with Elmiron vision loss may need to consider transportation alternatives or modifications. This can include expenses related to public transportation fares, ride-sharing services, or specialized transportation services for people with disabilities. Modifications to personal vehicles, such as installing adaptive controls or obtaining a specialized license, are expensive.

Orientation and Mobility Training

Enrolling in orientation and mobility training programs to learn techniques for independent navigation can involve associated costs. This may include fees for training sessions, obtaining mobility aids like canes or guide dogs, or transportation to and from training facilities.

Employment-related Expenses

Vision loss can impact one’s work and may require accommodations or assistive technology in the workplace. Costs related to obtaining accessible software, adaptive equipment, or workplace modifications fall into this category. Additionally, career development programs, vocational training, or retraining for new job opportunities may involve associated expenses.

Social Life and Recreation

Participating in social activities and recreational pursuits may require adaptations or specialized services. Expenses may include fees for audio-described performances, accessible recreational facilities, membership fees for organizations or clubs providing support. Social engagement opportunities for individuals with vision loss is very important.

Medical Expenses and Assistive Services

Ongoing medical expenses related to eye care, regular check-ups, and treatment can be part of the financial burden. Additionally, costs associated with assistive services such as orientation and mobility instructors, low vision specialists, therapists, or vision rehabilitation services may be necessary.

Having difficulty with you vision is factor in many parts of your life. But, you do not have to stop living independently and doing the things you enjoy! Especially when this setback was through no fault of your own. I want to help make sure you get the help you need, without emptying your bank account. As an Elmiron lawyer, call me today to file an Elmiron lawsuit, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

What Is Interstitial Cystitis?

Interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as bladder pain syndrome, is a chronic condition that affects the bladder. It is characterized by recurring pelvic pain, pressure, or discomfort in the bladder region. IC can significantly impact your quality of life, causing urinary urgency, frequency, and nocturia (frequent urination during the night).

Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis:

Pelvic pain or discomfort: Patients with IC may experience pain or pressure in the pelvic region, typically around the bladder area. The pain intensity can vary from mild to severe and may be constant or intermittent.

Urgency and frequency: IC can cause a sudden and urgent need to urinate, often accompanied by increased urinary frequency. Patients may feel the urge to urinate more frequently than usual, even with smaller volumes of urine.

Pain during sexual intercourse: Some individuals with IC may experience pain or discomfort during or after sexual intercourse (dyspareunia).

Nocturia: IC can lead to waking up multiple times during the night to urinate (nocturia), disrupting sleep patterns and causing fatigue.

Treatment for Interstitial Cystitis:

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes: Making certain lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding trigger foods or beverages (such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods), practicing pelvic floor muscle exercises, stress management techniques, and bladder training, may help alleviate symptoms and manage IC.

Oral Medications: Various oral medications can be prescribed to manage IC symptoms. These include pain medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), bladder analgesics (such as phenazopyridine), antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, or certain medications that help protect the bladder lining, like Elmiron.

Bladder Instillations: This treatment involves instilling medications directly into the bladder through a catheter. Common instillations include a solution of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or medications like heparin or lidocaine. These instillations aim to reduce inflammation and alleviate IC symptoms.

Nerve Stimulation: Nerve stimulation techniques, such as sacral neuromodulation or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), involve the application of electrical impulses to the nerves that control bladder function. These techniques can help regulate bladder activity and provide symptom relief.

Bladder Distention: In some cases, a bladder distention procedure may be performed under anesthesia. This involves stretching the bladder by filling it with fluid to help relieve symptoms and improve bladder capacity.

Physical Therapy: Pelvic floor physical therapy can be beneficial for individuals with IC, as it focuses on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and relieving muscle tension in the pelvic region.

Have You Been Diagnosed with the Eye Disorder Retinal Maculopathy, Retinal Pigmentary Endothelium or Macular Degeneration?

If you have been diagnosed with a vision damage or a related condition after taking Elmiron, you may be eligible for monetary compensation and I can help you!  Call me today!

Your vision issues may not be the result of aging, especially if you took or are taking the medication Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium).  Call me free of charge to discuss your claim.

Always remember there will be no out of pocket cost to you!  I have the experience and financial resources to fight the big pharmaceutical companies.