Elmiron, a drug used to treat interstitial cystitis, has been linked to serious retina damage, resulting in a condition known as maculopathy.

This is according to a recent analysis of over 4 million patient records in California, confirming suspicions raised in a 2018 report from the Emory Eye Center.

About Elmiron and Interstitial Cystitis (IC)

Also known by its generic name, pentosan polysulfate sodium, Elmiron is the only medication approved in the U.S. for relieving the symptoms of what is more commonly known as “bladder pain syndrome” or BPS.

The condition, affecting primarily women, is characterized by chronic pain, frequent and urgent need to urinate, and dyspareunia (painful intercourse). In many cases, the patient may also suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and fibromyalgia.

Unfortunately, the cause of the disease is not known, nor is there any cure. Women’s Health notes that diagnosis can also be tricky, as other common conditions, such as overactive bladder, urinary tract infection, prostate inflammation (in men) or venereal disease can exhibit similar symptoms.

Elmiron repairs damage to the bladder wall. Its compound is similar to a naturally-occuring lubricative substance that normally coats the inner surfaces of the bladder (glycosaminoglycan), essentially replacing the lining.

Aside from retinal damage, Elmiron patients report side effects that include gastrointestinal upset, alopecia (hair loss), headaches and skin rash.

Current Elmiron Research

The current study was carried out by three ophthalmologists working at Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. After examining a total of 4.3 million patient records, the researchers were able to identify 140 patients who had taken Elmiron regularly over a 15-year period (an average of 5,000 pills each). Of the 91 subjects who had eye examinations, approximately one-quarter exhibited retinal damage. The extent of the injury was dose-dependent, with higher dosages resulting in more frequent and severe injury.

Symptoms of Elmiron-related retinal injuries are also exhibited by other conditions, including age-related macular degeneration. Eye damage caused by the drug may be more common than the study indicated.

Unfortunately, there is no reliable way of knowing how much Elmiron is excessive. For that reason, patients who take the medication for interstitial cystitis and are not having eye problems currently should be checked for retinal injuries annually.

The Good News

If there is a silver lining to the news, it’s that retinal damage can be mitigated if the condition is identified early. This involves discontinuing Elmiron. However, it is important for a patient to have a discussion with the prescribing physician before they stop taking any medication.

Did the Drugmaker Know?

This is the question that is being determined in current litigation. Plaintiffs who take Elmiron for interstitial cystitis claim that the drug’s original manufacturer, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, was aware, or should have been aware, of the drug’s potential danger to the eyes and failed to warn patients and physicians. If you have been taking Elmiron and have experienced vision problems, you may be eligible to file a claim against the drug company.