When your doctor prescribes medication, it’s your understanding that they’re doing so to help improve your health. Unfortunately, as the result of defective drugs, this isn’t always the case.
Every year, thousands of Americans are injured and killed because of dangerous and defective drugs. And that holds true both with prescription and over-the-counter medications.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) maintains a comprehensive list of drug recalls, many of which are related to the potential for serious side effects.
Even though the FDA does its best to inform the public about dangerous and defective drugs, it’s not always enough to prevent injuries and even fatalities.
There are cases when the FDA doesn’t act quickly enough. There are also times when drug companies fail to issue recalls or the necessary warnings.
Adding to the above, pharmacists and doctors can also be held liable, such as if they don’t explain known dangers associated with a specific medication.
Are Defective Drugs Dangerous to Your Health?
While many drugs are recalled for minor concerns, there are times when a defective medication can be dangerous to your health and well-being.
In this case, the drug can lead to side effects such as stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and liver failure.
Note: if you have any questions or concerns about a particular over-the-counter or prescription medication, consult with your doctor and pharmacist. Also, do your own research online, such as to learn more about any open recalls.
Examples of Defective Drugs
Many defective drug lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers and medical professionals. Some are more widespread than others, with these five receiving a lot of attention over the years:
1. Belviq
Belviq (lorcaserin hydrochloride) is a serotonin 2C receptor agonist marketed to adults who are overweight as a result of conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
In 2020, the FDA finally stepped in to request the voluntary recall of Belviq due to an increased risk of cancer.
2. Nexium and Prilosec
As proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), both of these drugs are prescribed to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Unfortunately, it has been found that using either of these drugs over the long term can increase the risk of bone fractures, stroke, heart damage, and renal failure.
3. Xeljanz
Xeljanz is prescribed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. However, over the years, many lawsuits have been filed due to the potential for serious side effects including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolisms.
In 2021, the FDA reported that clinical trials showed that the use of Xeljanz can also cause cancer and several heart problems.
4. Zantac
Zantac may be effective in treating heartburn, but many lawsuits claim that the drug can be contaminated with N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a known cancer-causing agent.
In 2020, the FDA noted that all Zantac drugs — both over-the-counter and prescription — should be removed from the market.
5. Zostavax
Zostavax lawsuits are on the rise, with these claiming that the drug manufacturer Merck did not properly warn physicians and patients that the vaccine used to prevent shingles also has the potential to cause this dangerous and painful ailment.
Furthermore, the FDA Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System notes that the vaccine caused more than 1,000 severe reactions, along with numerous fatalities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It’s scary to think that a medication or vaccine that’s supposed to improve your health can actually cause serious, unknown side effects or even death.
For this reason, it’s critical to be sure of any drugs you’re putting into your body. Here are some frequently asked questions to address:
- Are you familiar with the potential side effects of any medication you’re currently taking?
- What steps does your medical team take to ensure that they don’t prescribe a drug that could cause more harm than good?
- What can you personally do to better understand the potential risks of over-the-counter and prescription drugs?
- How will you address side effects with your prescribing doctor?
- Do you have reason to believe that a specific medication has caused serious side effects?
As you answer these questions, you may come to realize that you or a loved one has consumed a defective drug that’s altered your health.
While you manage your health, don’t wait to consult with a Jacksonville defective drugs lawyer.
At Terrell Hogan, we have the experience and knowledge necessary to defend your legal rights and help you receive compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Contact us online or via phone at (904) 722-2228 to speak with an experienced defective drug attorney. We’re available to answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you feel better about your future.
