Case Updates
Over the last 25 years, hundreds of thousands of people have been prescribed Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) for their bladder inflammation caused by intestinal cysts (IC), also known as painful bladder syndrome. But recent research shows that side-effects from Elmiron may include serious eye disorders and even lead to blindness.
If you have taken this drug, you should consult with an Elmiron lawsuit attorney to determine your legal rights. The team at Gerling Law Injury Attorneys has been representing clients harmed by pharmaceutical companies and faulty drugs for over 50 years.
We are experienced and confident in our ability to get our clients the compensation they deserve for the injury, loss, and trauma they have incurred. Contact us today for an evaluation of your case.
Elmiron Lawsuit Background
A company is required to list all potential side effects on a prescription label, and not doing so is considered “failure to warn.” The company may be found liable for damages that occur due to this failure.
Janssen Pharmaceuticals produces Elmiron. Since its approval in 1996, the label for Elmiron has not listed maculopathy or any other serious eye disorder on its warning label. The label was updated to include this information in June of 2020 because of mounting concerns from patients claiming that Elmiron caused their eye problems.
Failing to warn doctors and potential patients of the risks involved with using Elmiron has been the driving force behind the Elimron lawsuit influx against Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Other defendants in the Elmiron lawsuits include Teva, Alza, Ortho-McNeil, Bayer, IVAX, and Centocor.
What Damage Does Elmiron Cause to Eyes?
A study conducted in 2019 by ophthalmologists in California found that as much as a quarter of those who regularly use Elmiron may have eye damage. Several other studies have followed suit. Research regarding the potential adverse effects was first published in 2018 and addressed patients studies from 2015 through 2017.
Elmiron vision loss is associated with an eye disorder called maculopathy, though other disorders affecting the retina could potentially be associated with Elmiron. The macula is the central part of the retina. Symptoms of eye disorders related to Elmiron may include:
- Difficulty adjusting to the dark or dim lighting;
- Problems seeing objects that are up close;
- Straight lines looking squiggly;
- Color changes to the actual retina;
- Having trouble reading because of sight;
- Areas of vision loss within the normal field of vision;
- Muted or less-vivid colors; and
- Dimming of vision.
The type of maculopathy associated with Elmiron is called “pigmentary maculopathy.” The condition appears to be uniquely caused by use of the drug. If you are taking Elmiron and have experienced any of these symptoms, you should contact an Elmiron lawsuit attorney.
Elmiron Class Action Lawsuit 2022 Update
The Elmiron lawsuits are not part of a single class-action lawsuit. They are separate lawsuits that will be consolidated into a multi-district litigation (MDL). The purpose of MDL is to streamline litigation. Multiple cases, similar in nature, are transferred to a single district court instead of hundreds of courts across the nation.
As of February 2022, there are over 736 Elmiron lawsuits consolidated in the Elmiron MDL.
One judge is responsible for pretrial rulings, and the first four or five cases (called “bellwether trials”) set the precedent for negotiations in the other cases. This helps conserve court resources and provides consistency in court findings. The U.S. District Court in New Jersey will hear all Elmiron cases.
Unlike in a class-action lawsuit, each case will receive a separate settlement. The amount of compensation for your Elmiron lawsuit depends on the extent of your injury and your individual circumstances.
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Should You File an Elmiron Lawsuit?
There are several questions you can ask yourself to determine whether you have a valid Elmiron lawsuit. These are also answers you will want to have prepared for your Elmiron lawsuit attorney to speed up the process.
What Is the Extent of Your Injuries?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that Elmiron users include auto-fluorescence imaging and optical coherence tomography in their eye exams. Your medical records will help determine the severity of your injuries, which will impact the amount of compensation you receive.
How Does Your Vision Impairment Impact Your Daily Life?
The physical aspects of vision impairment can make life difficult and prevent you from performing normal tasks such as driving or reading. This can also limit your ability to work and earn a living. It is also important to take into consideration the emotional component of vision loss. The hardship of not being able to enjoy life fully may entitle you to additional compensation.
How Long Have You Been Taking Elmiron, and When Did Issues Arise?
Many people who develop Elmiron vision loss issues have been taking the drug for at least two years. That does not mean that symptoms cannot arise sooner or develop after you stop taking the drug. Knowing when you began taking Elmiron, the frequency of usage, and when you developed vision issues can help make a strong correlation between the drug and your eye disorder.
What Is Your Prognosis and Treatment Plan?
There are a lot of factors that go into determining the severity of your eye issues and how long they will persist. In some cases, stopping the medication has reduced the progression of maculopathy. In other cases, symptoms continued to worsen. Your physician's treatment plan and prognosis may impact how the court views the severity of your injury and the associated costs.
Gerling Law Works On A Contingency Basis
Gerling Law’s experienced Elmiron lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means there are no upfront costs. We only get paid if you receive money.
We Handle Mass Torts All Over The Country
We consider ourselves a national law firm that represents plaintiffs in mass tort cases in federal and state courts across the country. We have attorneys admitted to the full-time practice of law in Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky, and we can be admitted to practice on individual matters in other courts and, if necessary, we can engage local counsel at our own expense to comply with state ethical rules. In short, our mass tort clients live all over the country. No matter where you reside, we can help you with your case.
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We minimize paperwork, stress, and wait time as much as possible.
Over 50 Years Experience
Our personal injury lawyers have helped thousands of injured victims and their loved ones.
When to Contact an Elmiron Lawsuit Attorney
Many states have a two- or three-year statute of limitations from the time you became aware of the problem. It is difficult, if not impossible, to bring a case once this period of time expires. This means you should act quickly if you think you have grounds for an Elmiron lawsuit. Our experienced defective drug attorneys at Gerling Law Injury Attorneys can help you evaluate your case, determine the best course of action, and navigate the legal process. We have recovered over $500 million on behalf of our clients, and we want to help you too. Contact us today to set up a free consultation and learn more about how we can help with your Elmiron lawsuit.
