Raptiva
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The psoriasis drug Raptiva, manufactured by Genetech, Inc. and approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2003 has been linked to several deadly side effects. On February 19, 2009, the FDA announced three cases and a possible fourth of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a serious brain infection, were likely caused by Raptiva. Three of the four patients have died as a result of their illness. The FDA asked Genetech in October, 2008, to add a black box warning to Raptiva listing PML as a possible side effect, as well as other dangerous conditions.
PML causes serious neurological problems for those who survive the disease. Around 80 percent of those who develop PML die within six months.
Raptiva is one of the most widely used psoriasis treatment drugs in the US, and treats moderate to severe cases of plaque psoriasis. Psoriasis is a type of disorder in the immune system, which causes a type of white blood cell, called T cells, to trigger inflammation in the skin. The inflammation causes raised patches of red skin, which can be scaly, itch, and burn. Raptiva suppressed the T cells, and keeps psoriasis in check with a weekly injection.
The FDA has said those who take Raptiva risk:
- Invasive fungal disease
- Bacterial sepsis
- Viral meningitis
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) Side effects of using Raptiva include:
- Chills or fever
- Cough
- Congestion
- Burning or problems urinating
- Sore throat
Raptiva Symptoms to look for include:
PML – difficulty speaking or walking, dizziness, loss of balance, confusion, problems with vision anemia – dizziness, jaundice, general weakness nervous system disorders – tingling or weakness in limbs or face, sudden onset of numbness Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) – small red or purple dots beneath the skin, bleeding gums, bruising The FDA has said they will ensure the risks of Raptiva do not outweigh the benefit, and have not yet called for a complete halt of doctors prescribing the drug. Instead, they have issued a general public alert wherein health professionals need to tell potential patients of the risk of PML, as well as the boxed warning. Health care professionals have been asked to monitor Raptiva patients for signs of PML, and that patients talk to their doctors before stopping their weekly injection.
Contact Zeccola and Selinger, LLC to learn your legal rights. Our toll free number is 800-928-9445. You will speak with an attorney that has been involved in an ongoing investigation into Raptiva and the resulting injuries suffered. There is no cost or obligation for your call.
Call us today at 1-800-928-9445 |
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