Tasigna (nilotinib) is a popular cancer treatment for chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia, however, researchers linked the medication to a deadly vascular condition known as atherosclerosis. Marked by a narrowing of the veins, atherosclerosis emerges rapidly with little warning. When the condition appears, tissue dies and leads to limb amputation, coronary artery disease, and death.
About Tasigna
Manufacturer Novartis received FDA approval for Tasigna in 2007. Tasigna is a protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor which blocks chemical enzymes in cancer cells in order to inhibit cell growth and division. Tasigna, also known generically as nilotinib, is an oral treatment for patients who have been diagnosed with Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). When the bone marrow makes too many white blood cells, CML occurs. Even though CML is a long-term, treatable form of cancer, however when not treated properly, it can become a chronic disease.In 2017, almost 9,000 new cases of CML were reported in the U.S., along with over 1,000 deaths. Tasigna is among the ten most prescribed cancer drugs in the world.
Tasigna & Atherosclerosis
In 2011, researchers first found a connection between Tasigna and atherosclerosis. They found that even in recommended doses, the drug caused severe and rapid-onset atherosclerosis. This condition happens when an excess of white blood cells and fibrofatty plaque accumulates in the arteries, causing a hazardous thickening of the body’s arterial walls, known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
PAD can develop life-threatening and irreversible complications. In this condition, blood cannot circulate freely to the limbs. Detection needs to happen quickly. If not, tissue death may occur, leading to amputation of limbs. Additionally, other severe cardiovascular problems can also develop, and may result in death if Tasigna-induced atherosclerosis is left unchecked. In short, while intended to treat one life-threatening condition, Tasigna can result in another.
Tasigna Side Effects
Severe and fatal Tasigna associated complications include atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease, limb amputation, and death. Since 2011, medical journals have documented these risks. In fact, in 2013, the manufacturer, Novartis warned Canadians of the risk of cardiovascular side effects, yet never warned American consumers.
Previous Novartis Settlements
In 2013, Novartis paid $390 million to the Justice Department. The department charged the company for illegal kickbacks to physicians prescribing Tasigna. Plus, the Justice Department found that the company was misbranding and false advertising the drug. As previously mentioned, Novartis acknowledged Tasigna vascular side effects in Canada in 2013 but never warned the American medical community. Novartis still makes more than $1.7 billion in sales for the cancer drug.
Speak to an Attorney Today
If Tasigna harmed you or a loved one, you need an attorney with experience helping people who have been harmed by pharmaceutical drugs. The attorneys at the Michael Brady Lynch Firm know what it takes to go up against drug manufacturers to get clients what they need.
How We Can Help
When you experience side effects from a dangerous drug, it can have devastating effects on your entire life. You may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages. The types of losses include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of an ability to work; and
- Pain and suffering
If a person dies from complications from a drug, family members may be able to recover damages for the wrongful death of their loved one, including:
- Funeral expenses
- Medical expenses prior to death
- Loss of economic support; and
- Loss of companionship
Therefore, if a jury finds the conduct of a drug company in manufacturing and selling the drug to be highly reckless, they may award punitive damages to punish the company and deter similar conduct in the future.
If you developed complications after taking Tasigna, please speak to us to learn more about your rights. Persons and the family members of persons who suffered from Tasigna atherosclerosis, amputation, peripheral artery disease, or another serious Tasigna side effect may be eligible for compensation by filing a Tasigna lawsuit. As a leading pharmaceutical mass torts firm, our attorneys have a strong track record of winning major cases on behalf of American consumers harmed by the actions of pharmaceutical giants.
Case evaluations are free of cost and without obligation. Call us today at (877) 513-9517 or contact us online to speak with an attorney about your options. We may be able to get you the help you need.
