Raptiva® Side Effects and Possible Death Prompt Recall
Wednesday, April 8, 2009 -- Genentech announces psoriasis drug recall. Raptiva® (efalizumab) is a drug that has been prescribed for chronic plaque psoriasis treatment. Raptiva® is manufactured by Roche Holdings AG's Genentech Inc. unit. See Genentech Raptiva® (efalizumab) press release .
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) Linked to Raptiva®
Raptiva® (efalizumab) has been linked to a rare but often fatal brain disorder called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy is a serious brain infection caused by a virus. PML results in death or severe disability. Using Raptiva® will increase your risk for PML.
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PML Symptoms include new or sudden changes in:
- Thinking
- Balance
- Strength
- Talking
- Walking
- Vision
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) and the JC virus
PML is caused by activation of the JC virus which resides in a latent form in up to 80% of healthy adults, typically only causing PML in immunocompromised patients. The factors leading to activation of the latent infection are not fully understood, though abnormalities in T-cells have been described as important for reactivation and PML. Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy has been reported in HIV positive patients, immunosuppressed cancer patients, transplantation patients and patients with autoimmune diseases. There are no know interventions that can reliably prevent or adequately treat PML.
Raptiva® and Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)
Taking Raptiva® increases your chances of PML because Raptiva® weakens the ability of your immune system to fight the virus that causes PML. Your chance of getting PML may even be higher if you are also being treated with other medications that can weaken your immune system. You can still get PML even if you use Raptiva® alone.
Some of these serious infections have led to hospitalizations or death and have been caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Symptoms of a serious infection include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Flu-like symptoms
- Feeling especially tired
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Stiff neck
Have You Been Receiving the Psoriasis Drug Raptiva®?
If you or a loved one have been receiving injectable Raptiva® and have been diagnosed with (PML) or are experiencing symptoms consistent with this condition, Call 1-888-633-0360 or Click for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights. Contact Ohio Raptiva® Lawyers about your possible injury from Raptiva® Right Away.
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For more than 65 years, the attorneys at Spangenberg Shibley & Liber have represented victims of unsafe drugs in lawsuits throughout Ohio and beyond. Our attorneys have access to the most sophisticated technical and medical resources available to investigate and prepare your case to win. When the insurance company lawyers see our name on the lawsuit, they know it is well researched, carefully investigated and thoroughly prepared. For you, that means insurance company lawyers come to the table prepared to discuss a full and fair settlement - or we'll see them in court.
Remember, if you have a claim, there is most likely a statute of limitations clock running, after which you won't have the right to file a lawsuit. Protect your rights by contacting us today or calling us at (888) 633-0360.
