Tysabri Wrongful Death
Tysabri (also known as antegren) has been recognized as one of the most effective drug treatments of multiple sclerosis (MS). Unfortunately, it may potentially cause a viral brain condition called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). PML is a health condition that more often than not leads to death. At the present time, 20 alleged Tysabri wrongful deaths have been reported. In addition, more than 30 Tysabri patients have been diagnosed with PML.
PML affects multiple locations in the brain’s white matter (myelin) by causing severe swelling. PML symptoms develop slowly at first, and then began to progress more rapidly. Although the symptoms will vary depending on which areas of the brain are affected, the most common include the following:
- Speech and cognitive impairments
- Vision loss
- Disorientation
- Confusion
- Epilepsy
Tysabri Settlement
The goal of a Tysabri settlement is to gain retribution for victims or victims’ families who have suffered as a result of alleged Tysabri side effects. Within a year of being introduced in the U.S., Tysabri allegedly caused two cases of PML.
As a result of these two reported PML cases, Biogen Idec and Élan, the manufacturers of Tysabri, issued a voluntary recall. After one year, Tysabri was re-released in the U.S. Patients prescribed Tysabri were required to enroll in TYSABRI Outreach: Unified Commitment to Health (TOUCH) Prescribing Program. TOUCH stated that medical professionals must closely monitor Tysabri patients for any potential symptoms of PML.
Biogen Idec and Élan also created bolder warning labels that advised patients and doctors of the following:
- The risk of developing of Tysabri PML increases for patients who take this drug for extended periods of time.
- Approximately 1.16 in every 1,000 Tysabri patients will develop PML.
Tysabri Lawsuit
It is the responsibility of pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers such as Biogen Idec and Élan to alert doctors and consumers of any potential adverse side effects that may be caused by a drug. If you or a loved one has taken Tysabri and suffered any adverse side effects including PML, you are advised to contact Chaffin Luhana at 1-888-480-1123 to speak with a Tysabri lawyer regarding a potential Tysabri lawsuit. You may be entitled to compensation, and a Tysabri lawyer is prepared to assist you.
