Drug Injury Lawyers Blog
Prescription drugs and other medical advances have resulted in a steady increase in life expectancy over the years. However, prescription drugs have also wreaked havoc, as the abuse of painkillers continues to grow and defective or incorrectly prescribed medications cause potentially life-threatening injuries in patients. Across the country, thousands of lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers of dangerous or defective drugs. Contact a Boston Drug Injury Lawyer Today.
Which Drugs Are Most Dangerous?
Recent statistics reveal that nearly 50% of Americans have used some type of prescription medication in the last month. Even more shocking, approximately 85% of adults age 65 and older are currently taking at least one, but an average of three, prescription drugs. Of course, medicine often saves lives. We are fortunate to live in a time when advanced medical care and medications are available when we need them, but we must be careful. In addition to always following prescription instructions, it is important to notify your healthcare provider if you develop any unexpected symptoms or side-effects while taking a medication. While any drug can be dangerous if taken incorrectly, the following drugs are considered to be some of the most dangerous on the market today:
- Statins: High-cholesterol is a concern for millions of Americans. For many, drugs called statins are the best option for treatment. Zocor, Lescol, and Mevacor are all examples of statins. Although these drugs are effective at lowering cholesterol levels, they have also been linked to muscle inflammation, liver toxicity, and serious gastrointestinal problems.
- Prednisone: A type of steroid called a corticosteroid, Prednisone has been prescribed to treat asthma, allergies, and several other ailments. However, as prednisone weakens the immune system, it can only be taken for very short periods of time. In addition, prednisone-use has been linked to intestinal bleeding, peptic ulcers, and even osteoporosis.
- Methotrexate: This chemotherapy drug is effective at killing cancer cells, but it is also effective at killing healthy cells. Methotrexate use has been associated with kidney and liver toxicity, immune system weakening, birth defects, and even fetal death.
- Warfarin or Coumadin: These anticoagulant drugs are used to thin the blood in patients with blood clotting disorders. While warfarin can prevent strokes and heart attacks, it can also weaken blood vessels, resulting in hemorrhaging. Even minor cuts can lead to an unsafe loss of blood.
- SGLT2 Inhibitors: This relatively new category of drugs is used to treat patients with type 2 diabetes. Although very effective at controlling blood sugar, SGLT2 inhibitors have caused excessive levels of blood acid in many patients. This condition, called ketoacidosis, is extremely dangerous. Invokana, Farxiga, Jardiance, and Xigduo XR are some examples of popular SGLT2s on the market today.
When a pharmaceutical company fails to adequately warn physicians and consumers of risks associated with their drug(s), the company may be liable for injuries. Prescription drugs generate billions of dollars in profits for their manufacturers every year. Unfortunately, sometimes profits take priority over patient safety. When drug companies are negligent, they should be held accountable for their actions. At Altman & Altman, LLP, our skilled drug injury lawyers have taken on several big pharmaceutical companies and won. We will help you determine the best strategy for moving forward. Contact us today for a free consultation about your case.
