Elmiron can affect macula in the eye
Dear Dr. Roach: Could you discuss Elmiron side effects and the pending lawsuit? I have been on this for years for interstitial cystitis and am worried about staying on it even though it is the only relief I can find.
C.H.
Answer: “Interstitial cystitis” is a term used for chronic bladder pain when no other cause has been identified. It is not well understood.
Before considering medication therapy, it’s important to identify individual triggers to symptoms, whether through diet, body position or exercise. Some people do better with more fluid, some with less. Pelvic floor physical therapy can bring great relief to many with IC.
If medication is indicated, amitriptyline is usually the first tried, and is effective for many. It is not effective for all, and pentosan polysulfate (Elmiron) is then often tried. It may take three to six months to see maximum benefit.
Side effects of nausea and diarrhea happen 10% to 20% of the time. Hair loss may occur and is reversible with stopping the medication. Liver function abnormalities are possible but uncommon.
In 2018, a paper identified damage to the macula (the center of the retina) in people who had been taking the medication for an average of 15 years. A further study in 2019 confirmed that people taking pentosan polysulfate may develop pigment in the retina, which threatens sight.
A lawsuit claims that the drug manufacturer withheld knowledge about this potential side effect.
People with IC and vision symptoms should have a visual examination by an ophthalmologist.
Although there is no official recommendation to do so, those who have been taking Elmiron for years should get an ophthalmologic examination, in my opinion. Knowing whether there is any toxicity is important in deciding whether to keep taking the medication, especially since there is evidence that the damage may continue even after the drug is stopped. People may still choose to continue the medication despite this toxicity. Knowing the risks is essential in order to make an informed decision.