There are several different kinds of macular disease, including age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, which is one of the most common types. Elmiron has been associated with a type called pigmentary maculopathy, in which users of the drug are found to have small, pigmented deposits in the macular area. This condition is sometimes mistaken for AMD, especially in older patients. If you took Elmiron and were later diagnosed with any kind of maculopathy, it’s possible you may actually have pigmentary maculopathy.
LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF PIGMENTARY MACULOPATHY
Many people want to know if they will lose their vision completely. The good news is that this doesn’t happen with maculopathy, because only the central vision is affected. Even in severe cases, patients still retain lateral vision. The bad news is that pronounced damage to your central vision can still make it difficult to do your usual activities and tasks.
Unfortunately, there are currently no treatment options for this type of maculopathy. There are some coping strategies that may help patients adjust to difficulties with central vision:
Installing night lights in your house will help you get around if maculopathy has damaged your night vision.
An ophthalmologist may be able to prescribe glasses to help you see better.
Magnifying glasses, high-powered reading glasses, and bright lighting may help you if reading is difficult
Some patients find that moving their head sideways helps them to “see around” dark or blurry spots in their vision.
Putting grip bars in your shower may help you to avoid taking a fall due to vision difficulties.