We represent clients who have suffered liver injuries due to the use of Multaq. Multaq (dronedarone) has been linked to serious side effects, ranging from the worsening of existing arrhythmia to liver damage and liver failure. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration released safety communications warning patients of the increased risk for serious liver injury, which can lead to death. If you took Multaq and suffered serious liver damage or liver failure, it is important to understand your rights. Our Multaq attorneys specialize in advocating for consumers' right to monetary compensations for injuries caused by defective medications.
Aaron M. Levine & Associates is located in Washington, D.C., and represents clients in Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, California, Texas, Massachusetts, New York, Illinois, Florida, Washington and nationwide in defective drug litigation cases. Our lawyers are experienced and knowledgeable, and are leaders in defective drug litigation. We take particular interest in our clients' situations, and make advocacy in the courtroom a priority. You can count on our team to help you secure the compensation you deserve and hold pharmaceutical companies accountable.
FDA Safety Communication Regarding Increased Risk for Liver Failure and the Use of Multaq
In January 2011, the FDA released a safety communication regarding the use of the drug Multaq, which is used to treat atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter, and abnormal heart rhythms. Multaq increases the risk for liver failure. Signs of liver damage can include:
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue or fainting
- Yellowing of the skin
- Sleepiness or restlessness
- Swelling around the abdominal area
Multaq Case Report That Prompted the Safety Announcement of 2011
A Multaq case report involving a 70-year-old woman who developed liver failure after using use of dronedarone (Multaq) for six months. On January 14, 2011, a safety announcement by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding the increased risk for liver damage and failure in patients treated with Multaq was published. While cases of liver failure in Multaq patients are rare, they are extremely serious and can result in complete liver failure, the need for a liver transplant or even death.
The study was conducted by Nader Joghetaei, MD, et al and is entitled "Acute Liver Failure Associated with Dronedarone." The woman was initially referred to a community hospital for experiencing progressive fatigue and increasing bilirubin for two weeks. It was noted that for the past nine months, her liver function test was within normal range. She had a medical history which included coronary artery disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but did not drink, smoke or consume alcohol. After clinical examiniation, it was determined that she had a dronedarone-induced acute liver failure. She was transferred to a university hospital for emergent liver transplantation.
Multaq Information You Should Know About
The FDA reports that between 2009 and 2010, more than 145,000 Multaq prescriptions were filled at outpatient retail pharmacies in the U.S. Additionally, nearly 500,000 prescriptions were sold to patients across the U.S. within the same timeframe. Many of these patients could be at risk for adverse liver damage, including liver failure.
The First QuarterWatch summary for 2010 by the Institute for Safe Medicine Practices concluded that more than 33,000 cases of serious injury, disability and death were associated with the use of Multaq. This is an increase of more than 11 percent over the previous quarter.
Not only do studies show that patients are at an increased risk for liver failure, the drug may actually worsen existing arrhythmia. It is important to consult with your health care professional about the possible side effects and concerns that you may have about this medication. Do not stop taking the medication unless you have been directed by a health care professional.
Contact Our Experienced Nationwide Lawyers
We invite you to contact our firm at 888-564-9305 to schedule a free case evaluation. Our attorneys put special emphasis on our clients' cases. We pledge to provide the highest level of services, personalized attention and dedication to your situation.
