Elmiron Attorney in San Diego

Elmiron Lawsuit Overview

Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) lawsuits allege that the medication causes vision damage and retinal injuries, including pigmentary maculopathy, a type of macular degeneration.

Over 1,700 patients have reported serious eye damage after taking this prescription drug for interstitial cystitis.

The FDA issued a warning about vision risks in June 2020, requiring updated safety information on Elmiron’s labeling.

Latest Elmiron Lawsuit Updates

• January 2025 – The Elmiron MDL (multidistrict litigation) has grown to include more than 1,700 cases in federal court. The first bellwether trial resulted in a $10 million verdict for the plaintiff who suffered permanent vision loss after long-term Elmiron use.
• November 2024 – Janssen Pharmaceuticals, facing mounting evidence linking Elmiron to vision damage, has begun settlement discussions in several cases, with initial settlement amounts ranging from $150,000 to $600,000 based on severity of vision impairment.
• September 2024 – A scientific study published in the Journal of Ophthalmology confirmed a direct causal relationship between long-term Elmiron use and unique patterns of retinal damage, strengthening plaintiffs’ claims in pending litigation.
• July 2024 – The New Jersey Superior Court consolidated all state-level Elmiron product liability lawsuits into a multi-county litigation (MCL) to streamline the legal process for hundreds of plaintiffs.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s MAUDE database, there have been over 2,100 adverse event reports related to Elmiron since 2018. Of these reports:

• 74% involve vision-related complications
• 42% specifically describe symptoms consistent with pigmentary maculopathy
• 28% report permanent vision impairment requiring ongoing medical intervention

The FDA required Janssen Pharmaceuticals to update Elmiron’s warning label in June 2020 to include information about retinal pigmentary changes and recommend regular eye examinations for users.

Elmiron Injuries & Side Effects

Elmiron users have reported a range of serious vision problems that can lead to permanent sight impairment or blindness.

• Pigmentary Maculopathy: Damage to the macula (central part of the retina) causing vision distortion and blindness
• Vision Impairment: Blurred vision, difficulty reading, and dark spots in vision
• Night Vision Problems: Difficulty seeing in low light conditions
• Eye Pain: Persistent discomfort and pain in the eyes
• Retinal Hemorrhage: Bleeding in the retina causing vision disturbances
• Unilateral or Bilateral Blindness: Partial or complete vision loss in one or both eyes

Do You Qualify for an Elmiron Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an Elmiron lawsuit if:

• You took Elmiron for at least six months between 1996 and the present
• You were diagnosed with pigmentary maculopathy, macular degeneration, or other serious vision problems
• Your vision problems developed during or after Elmiron treatment
• You received medical treatment for your vision conditions
• You can provide documentation of both Elmiron use and subsequent vision complications

Evidence Required for an Elmiron Lawsuit

To build a successful personal injuries case, you’ll need to gather:

• Medical records confirming Elmiron prescription and duration of use
• Pharmacy records showing prescription fills
• Ophthalmological diagnosis and treatment records
• Documentation of vision tests and deterioration over time
• Expert medical testimony linking your vision damage to Elmiron use

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of Elmiron-related eye damage may be eligible to recover compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses related to vision treatment
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering from vision impairment
• Loss of quality of life and enjoyment
• Cost of vision aids, home modifications, and assistance
• Punitive damages against the manufacturer (in cases of proven negligence)

Elmiron Recall Information

As of 2025, Elmiron has not been recalled by the FDA or voluntarily withdrawn by Janssen Pharmaceuticals despite the growing number of lawsuits. The medication remains on the market with updated warning labels regarding vision risks. However, many physicians have begun recommending alternative treatments for interstitial cystitis patients due to these serious safety concerns.

Statute of Limitations for Elmiron Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing an Elmiron lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 1-6 years from the date you discovered (or should have reasonably discovered) that your vision problems may be related to Elmiron use. Given recent scientific studies confirming the link between Elmiron and eye damage, many courts are applying the “discovery rule” which may extend this timeframe.

Key state limitations include:

• California: 2 years
• Florida: 4 years
• New York: 3 years
• Texas: 2 years

Consulting with an attorney promptly is crucial to ensure your product liability lawsuit is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. How Much Is My Elmiron Lawsuit Worth?

Elmiron lawsuit settlements and verdicts typically range from $150,000 to over $1 million, depending on severity of vision damage, duration of drug use, and impact on quality of life. Recent bellwether trials have resulted in multi-million dollar verdicts for plaintiffs with permanent vision loss.

2. How Long Will My Elmiron Lawsuit Take?

Most Elmiron cases take between 12-36 months to resolve. Factors affecting timeline include case complexity, court backlogs, settlement negotiations, and whether your case goes to trial or settles outside court. Cases in the MDL may move faster as common issues are decided collectively.

3. Can I Still Take Elmiron During My Lawsuit?

Medical decisions should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. Many doctors now recommend alternative treatments for interstitial cystitis. If you continue taking Elmiron, regular eye exams every 6 months are essential to monitor for vision changes.

4. What Evidence Proves Elmiron Caused My Vision Problems?

Successful cases typically require ophthalmological diagnosis of pigmentary maculopathy or similar conditions, documentation of Elmiron use preceding vision problems, expert medical testimony, and absence of other potential causes for your specific vision issues.

5. Is There a Class Action Lawsuit Against Elmiron?

Rather than a class action, Elmiron cases have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in New Jersey federal court. Unlike class actions, MDL cases remain individual, with each plaintiff receiving compensation based on their specific injuries and damages.

6. Who Is Named in the Elmiron Lawsuits?

Defendants in Elmiron lawsuits typically include Janssen Pharmaceuticals (manufacturer), Johnson & Johnson (parent company), and in some cases, prescribing doctors who failed to warn patients about vision risks after safety concerns emerged.

7. What If I Took Generic Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium?

While most current litigation focuses on brand-name Elmiron, some lawsuits include claims against generic manufacturers. The legal approach differs slightly for generic drugs, but compensation may still be available if you suffered vision damage.

8. How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Elmiron Lawsuit Attorney?

Most Elmiron attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Attorney fees typically range from 33-40% of your settlement or verdict amount, collected only if your case succeeds.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Elmiron-related vision damage. Most states allow only 2-3 years from the date you discovered your injuries were related to Elmiron use to file a lawsuit. With statutes of limitations approaching for many patients, acting quickly is essential to preserve your legal rights.

Our experienced product liability lawyers offer:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or hourly fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Nationwide representation from our San Diego headquarters
• Decades of experience fighting pharmaceutical companies

Don’t let the pharmaceutical companies escape responsibility for your suffering. Our team has already helped secure millions in compensation for Elmiron victims nationwide.

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