FDA Increases Warnings on Several Cancer Drugs

Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strengthened warnings for two cancer treatment drugs. The medications include Rituxan, used to treat non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Arzerra, used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Suppressing the immune system

The medications Rituxan and Arzerra work by suppressing the body’s immune system. The patient must work closely with the treating physician to avoid infections.

Hepatitis B

The hepatitis B virus causes inflammation and irritation of the liver. This inflammation and irritation can lead to reduced liver function, liver damage, cirrhosis or cancer. It can be transmitted through blood or body fluids by a person who has the virus. Symptoms may include:

• Dark urine, and skin that is yellow

• Achy joints and muscles

• Low-grade fever

• Fatigue

• Vomiting and nausea

• Loss of appetite

It is possible to become infected with the hepatitis B virus and show no symptoms. The patient may be unaware that they have this virus. The only sure way to be certain that the patient is free of the hepatitis B virus is to test for it.

Reactivation

The FDA had already placed a warning on both of these medications to alert physicians and patients of the reactivation of hepatitis B. In spite of the first FDA warnings, patients with a history of hepatitis B continued to experience reactivation of that condition when taking Rituxan or Arzerra. Therefore, the FDA has issued even stronger warnings of the risk and recommends that all patients be screened for hepatitis B prior to beginning treatment involving Rituxan or Arzerra.

If You’ve Been Hurt, a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

When Florida residents believe they have been injured by dangerous drugs, they should work closely with a physician to reduce physical damage. In addition, they may also want to contact an injury lawyer serving Brandon to obtain more information regarding their rights. The law offices of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk offer a free initial consultation and case evaluation. Call 1-800-538-4878 today.

Because of the fact that cases involving defective medication injuries may be highly complex and exceedingly specific, our law firm commonly works with other law firms who have considerable experience in each particular case type. Thus, we may be referring these types of cases to a separate firm, with whom we typically associate and work with on a co-counsel basis.