Elmiron is a drug that’s used to treat bladder disorders. It is also known as pentosan polysulfate. The most common side effects of the drug are gastrointestinal in nature, i.e., diarrhea, stomach pain, and heartburn. However, some users have also reported hair loss, rash, headache, and insomnia.
More seriously, Elmiron use has been linked with severe eye damage. If you have been using the drug and have experienced adverse side effects, then you may be wondering whether or not you can claim compensation.
This post will answer that question for you, as well as offer advice on making a claim if you are eligible.
Can You Make A Claim?
If you have experienced nasty, life-altering side-effects due to Elmiron, then yes, you can make a claim for compensation. As mentioned in this post’s introduction, the dangers of Elmiron are many. However, despite the many side effects the drug can cause, most people making compensatory claims are doing so because of the retinal damage they have sustained due to using it. Some people have partially or totally lost their sight due to this drug. The reason that compensation is paid to these people is that in the event of a serious injury, it can become extremely difficult to carry on with one’s usual life. Serious injury can mean that people have to leave their jobs, pull out of education, or that they require care for the rest of their life. If any of this applies to you then you can make a claim.
Making A Claim
Finding A Lawyer
The first step in the compensation claim process is to find a lawyer. Ideally, you should find a lawyer who specializes in Elmiron claims or is currently making one. Working with a lawyer who’s currently making a claim for other people against the manufacturers of Elmiron will save you a lot of time and money. Working with a lawyer who’s not currently making such a claim can mean that they have a lot more paperwork to do, which will in turn mean that they end up charging you a lot more money.
Presenting Evidence
If you plan on making a claim, then you will need to present evidence to the lawyer that you are working with. You will need to prove that you were prescribed Elmiron, and then prove that you are now suffering because of it. The best way to do this is to present your lawyer with prescriptions or medical transcripts showing that you were using the drug, and then show them evidence of your current medical situation, which you can do by asking your physician to write you out a medical certificate.
Remaining Patient
The compensatory process can be very long. It’s not something that’s going to happen overnight. Unfortunately a lot of people do not know this and as a consequence rush or nag their lawyers. You need to remain patient. It is in your lawyer’s best interests to get you compensation because then they get paid (if you are working on a no-win-no-fee basis, which most personal injury lawyers will suggest). Your lawyer will get in touch with you as soon as they have any updates or information for you regarding your claim. If you need to go to court, they will tell you.
Attending Court
Some claims for compensation result in people having to go to court. The main reason people have to go to court during a compensation claim is to give evidence. If you are required to go to court to give evidence, then your lawyer will brief you and prepare you. If there is anything specific that you should or shouldn’t say, then they will tell you. When attending court it is normal to be nervous, however, you should try to be as confident and bold as possible, since the more convincing your testimony, the more likely you are to get compensation.
Being Honest
Make sure that you don’t exaggerate or embellish aspects of your claim. It is human nature to want to exaggerate one’s injuries, especially when money is involved. However, lying to your lawyer or to the court when you are giving evidence can lead to your claim being dismissed. If your claim is dismissed, then you won’t be eligible for compensation. Do not exaggerate how your injuries affect your life, just tell the truth. Remember, you will need to provide a written statement from your physician exploring your injuries, so if you lie it could go against what they say in their statement.
Elmiron has led to many people suffering life-changing injuries. If you were prescribed the drug and as a consequence suffered side effects, then you may be eligible for compensation. If you are, then reach out to a personal injury lawyer; they will be able to guide you through the entire process.