On March 29, a Case Management Order (CMO) was issued, which indicated that as of March, 196 cases over Elmiron vision problems were filed in federal and state courts nationwide.
The CMO also noted that there are 171 cases pending in federal multidistrict litigation (MDL), and another 25 cases filed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania state courts combined.
Additionally, it also asked the parties to meet and actively discuss proposed orders and stipulations to advance the litigation, which should include:
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An Order addressing plaintiff fact sheets (PFS), defense fact sheets (DFS), and a corresponding electronic vendor.
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A Scheduling Order, including the future trial date.
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A protocol governing remote depositions.
Elmiron, also known by its generic name pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS), is a medication prescribed to treat interstitial cystitis (IC). Many cases of pigmentary maculopathy, which involves changes to the retina, causing vision loss and impairment, have been reported among its users, mostly by individuals who have been using it for three years or longer.
A study was also published last month in the medical journal Current Opinion in Ophthalmology in which researchers indicated that one out of every five long-term users of Elmiron is prone to be left with retinal maculopathy.
In January, U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti, presiding over all Elmiron lawsuits, appointed a 25-member committee to serve in various leadership positions in the MDL. The committee would include three co-lead counsel and one liaison counsel, seven Executive Committee members, and 14 Steering Committee members.
The next case management conference is scheduled for Wednesday, April 14, 2021.
