Most people have seen major recalls for products. Whether they are for dangerous children’s toys, contaminated food, or faulty medical devices, US regulatory agencies frequently issue recalls for dangerous products. Today, we want to talk about Elmiron, a prescription medication used to treat a painful bladder condition. It has been discovered that this medication can cause severe eye disease in those who take it.
Has this medication been recalled?
At Colson Hicks Eidson, we are taking Elmiron cases in Florida and throughout the US. If you have been harmed due to this drug, call us today so we can secure the compensation you deserve.
Why are prescription medications recalled?
All prescription medications sold in the US must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This approval is usually obtained after lengthy periods of clinical testing performed by the companies and evaluated by the FDA.
However, that does not always mean that there will not be a problem discovered with medication after it has arrived on the market. It is not uncommon for a recall to be issued for a prescription drug. You likely hear about prescription medication recalls often. The FDA says that a “drug recall is the most effective way to protect the public from a defective or potentially harmful product. A recall is a voluntary action taken by a company at any time to remove a defective drug product from the market.”
When you look at the FDA’s current list of drug recalls, you will not see Elmiron, a prescription medication made by Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) is the only prescription medication approved for the treatment of interstitial cystitis, a painful bladder syndrome.
Recently, researchers in the US and Canada discovered that long-term use of Elmiron can cause pigmentary maculopathy, a degenerative eye disease that can lead to:
- Difficulty reading
- Blindness
- Eye pain
- Difficulty adapting to dim lighting
- Vision disturbances or distorted vision
- Trouble seeing things up close
Despite solid evidence presented by researchers, Elmiron has faced no recalls. Neither the company nor the FDA has alerted consumers to a possible risk of taking the medication.
What is the point of the recall system if it does not let consumers know about potential dangers? How many people have to be diagnosed with this eye disease caused by Elmiron before federal regulators take action.
Let us get to work on your behalf
If you or someone you love take Elmiron to treat painful bladder syndrome, you may need to seek assistance from an attorney. At Colson Hicks Eidson, our knowledgeable and experienced team is ready to get to work securing the compensation you deserve, which can include:
- Coverage of medical expenses related to the defective drug
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life damages
- Punitive damages against the manufacturer of Elmiron
When you need an Elmiron attorney in Florida or across the United States, we are ready to take your case. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or by calling us at 305-476-7442.