Diseases Caused by Defective Drugs
Mobile, Alabama
Many pharmaceutical products cause serious side effects that lead to the development of dangerous medical conditions. Often, the side effects of these drugs outweigh their benefit. The following products have been labeled defective drugs due to the serious conditions resulting from their use:
Hydroxycut
Hydroxycut is a line of popular diet and fat burning supplements. In May 2009, 14 Hydroxycut products were recalled after 23 incidents of serious liver injuries associated with these products were reported to the FDA. Health complications associated with the diet supplement include:
- Jaundice
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Liver damage
- Liver failure requiring a liver transplant
- Seizures
- Cardiovascular disorders
Reglan
Reglan is a metoclopramide drug used in the treatment of diabetic gastroparesis, a condition stemming from a lack of stomach muscle contractions. The FDA has recently placed a “black box” warning on the drug due to its association with an increased risk of developing tardive dyskinesia. Patients suffering from tardive dyskinesia tend to exhibit recurring, involuntary, meaningless movements. If you have developed tardive dyskinesia from taking Reglan, you should discontinue use of the drug immediately. For some, this will help symptoms go away. However, in severe cases, symptoms may be permanent.
Fosamax
Fosamax is a common drug prescribed to people suffering from osteoporosis. Unfortunately, instead of preventing bone loss, Fosamax has been found to cause osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). ONJ is a condition causing jawbone decay. ONJ reduces blood supply to your jawbone, increasing your likelihood of infection and bone rot. The condition is extremely painful. It is important to avoid any serious dental work if you are taking Fosamax, since you are more likely to experience complications from the dental procedure.
Permax
Permax is a drug prescribed to patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease, restless leg syndrome, and migraine headaches. In 2007, Permax was recalled when use of the drug was linked to heart valve damage. Heart valve dysfunction is a life-threatening condition that has been known to cause heart failure. If you are taking Permax, you should consult your doctor immediately so that you can alter your treatment regimen.
Seroquel
Seroquel is an antipsychotic drug prescribed to patients suffering from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Many people taking Seroquel have developed diabetes, high blood pressure, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, and Tardive Dyskinesia. Elderly people with dementia have died from taking Seroquel.
Trasylol
Trasylol is used to control bleeding during open heart surgery. Frequently, it will eliminate the need for a blood transfusion after heart surgery. Recently, studies have been published linking Trasylol to kidney damage.
Byetta
Byetta is a common diabetes drug. It has been linked to the development of acute Pancreatitis. While this disease often goes away on its own, about 20% of people suffering from acute Pancreatitis experience serious complications. In severe cases, Pancreatitis may lead to:
- Dehydration
- Low blood pressure
- Heart failure
- Lung failure
- Kidney failure
- Pancreatic bleeding
- Death
Shoulder Pain Pumps
Shoulder pain pumps have become very popular for use after shoulder surgery in order to reduce severe pain following the procedure. However, many patients using shoulder pain pumps have developed Postarthroscopic Glenohumeral Chondrolysis (PAGCL), a degenerative condition affecting your shoulder cartilage. PAGCL can cause permanent mobility issues in your shoulder. Often, the only way to correct the problem is by additional surgery.
Experienced Defective Drug Attorneys
The Mobile, Alabama law firm Long & Waite helps clients receive compensation for injuries sustained as a result of using defective drugs. We have handled many pharmaceutical liability cases and understand the nuances and complexities of this highly specialized area of the law.
If you have suffered an injury from taking a dangerous drug, please contact Long & Waite today to schedule a consultation. We serve clients in Mobile, Alabama.