In the ever-evolving landscape of modern medicine, millions rely on pharmaceutical treatments to manage their health and improve their quality of life. However, not all medications come without significant risks.
By shedding light on these risks, we aim to equip you with the required knowledge to use the medicines with proper care.
In this article, we delve into the serious side effects of six well-known medications, uncovering the potential dangers behind their promises of relief.
1: Tepezza
Tepezza, known by its generic name teprotumumab, is a groundbreaking medication primarily used to treat Thyroid Eye Disease. Beyond the common side effects, there have been reports of more severe adverse reactions. Some patients have experienced serious infusion reactions, including hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylaxis.
Additionally, there has been significant hearing impairment, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and other auditory troubles. These adverse reactions have raised substantial concerns among both patients and healthcare providers.
The emergence of the Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit stems from these severe auditory side effects. Despite initial clinical trials indicating a lower incidence of hearing issues, post-marketing surveillance and patient reports have revealed a higher frequency of hearing-related problems.
According to TorHoerman Law, allegations in the lawsuits suggest that the manufacturer, Horizon Therapeutics, may have failed to warn patients and healthcare professionals. They knew about the true extent and severity of the risk of hearing loss associated with Tepezza but could not adequately warn the users.
2: Xarelto
Xarelto, generically known as rivaroxaban, has anticoagulant properties. It is commonly used to prevent blood from clotting and treat blood clots. It is used in deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE), and to minimize the risk of stroke in individuals with atrial fibrillation.
Prevalent adverse effects include bleeding complications like nosebleeds, bleeding gums, heavy menstrual periods, and gastrointestinal bleeding. It may also cause severe allergic reactions, liver enzyme abnormalities, and, in rare cases, life-threatening hemorrhages.
The medicine, due to its severe side effects, has been subjected to numerous lawsuits. The plaintiffs allege that the manufacturers, Bayer and Johnson & Johnson, failed to provide adequate warnings about the risk of uncontrollable bleeding. It also lacked an antidote to reverse its effects in the early years of its availability.
Later, Bayer tried to replace the drug with its alternative, but it failed miserably. According to Reuters, London’s High Court ruled a blow to Bayers; the patent replacing its best-selling blood diluter Xarelto is invalid. Bayer’s attempt to replace its fast-selling drug was nullified last year when a huge batch was aborted in the later stage of testing.
3: Accutane (Isotretinoin)
It is generically known as isotretinoin and is used primarily to treat severe nodular acne that cannot be treated with other medications. Accutane is highly effective in clearing up severe acne, however, its use comes with a range of potential side effects.
More severe side effects include severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy, inflammatory bowel disease, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Due to these risks, Accutane is strictly regulated, requiring monthly monitoring and a rigorous risk management program, particularly concerning its teratogenic effects.
According to Drugwatch, thousands of people affected by the Accutane have filed lawsuits against Roche. The lawsuits claim that the company did not properly warn them about the potential side effects of Accutane. Most lawsuits alleged that the drug caused numerous bowel problems including Crohn’s disease. More than 7000 lawsuits were dismissed by the court in 2014 and another 500 by the NJ Supreme Court in 2018.
4: Lithium
Lithium is a well-established medication chiefly used to treat and handle bipolar disorder. It helps in stabilizing mood swings and preventing episodes of obsession and depression. Lithium’s role in psychiatry extends beyond mood stabilization. It is also used as an adjunct in the treatment of major depressive disorder and to augment the effects of other antidepressant medications.
Lithium use requires careful monitoring due to its narrow therapeutic index and potential side effects. Common side effects include increased polydipsia, hand tremors, recurrent urination, bulkiness, and gastrointestinal troubles. More serious risks involve thyroid and kidney dysfunction, as well as lithium toxicity, which can manifest as severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness. In extreme cases, it may lead to muscle weakness, seizures, or coma.
According to Mayo Clinic, lithium can cause several rare side effects, including confusion, memory issues, or disorientation. Other potential effects include fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, frequent urination, heightened thirst, and a slow heart rate. Muscle stiffness, difficulty breathing during exertion, unusual fatigue, and weight gain are also possible.
Despite its extensive use and proven efficacy, lithium has not been the subject of significant litigation like some other medications. This lack of lawsuits can be attributed to the thorough understanding of its side effects and the stringent monitoring protocols accompanying its prescription.
5: Fosamax
Fosamax is mainly used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in men and postmenopausal women. It also helps to treat Paget’s bone disease. By inhibiting osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, Fosamax helps increase bone mass and minimize the risk of fractures. Serious, though less common, side effects are jaw osteonecrosis, atypical femur fractures, and esophageal problems like esophagitis and esophageal cancer.
The plaintiffs of the Fosamax Lawsuit allege that its manufacturer, Merck, failed to provide sufficient warnings about the risk of severe side effects. Despite these legal challenges, Fosamax remains a widely prescribed and important medication in the management of osteoporosis.
6: Metformin
Metformin is a widely used oral medication mainly prescribed for handling type 2 diabetes. It increases glucose uptake by tissues and controls blood sugar levels. Metformin is often favored due to its efficacy, low cost, and relatively mild side effect profile.
Serious but rare side effects include lactic acidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the build-up of lactic acid in the blood. It is prevalent, especially in individuals with kidney dysfunction or other predisposing factors.
Healthline reports that metformin can cause a range of common side effects. Users might experience heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. Other frequent issues include bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Some people may also notice weight loss, headaches, or a metallic taste in their mouth.
Metformin has not been the center of significant litigation compared to other medications. Its benefits in managing type 2 diabetes and reducing complications such as cardiovascular disease generally outweigh the potential risks.
People Also Ask
Are there any common strategies for handling adverse reactions to medication?
Taking the medication with food to reduce gastrointestinal issues, and using additional medications or remedies to counteract specific side effects also helps. Adjusting the dosage and time of medicine also helps in managing adverse reactions.
How can I differentiate between normal and serious side effects?
To differentiate between normal and serious side effects, consider the seriousness, duration, and effect on daily activities. Normal side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as nausea or headache, while serious side effects are severe and persistent. They may include symptoms like chest congestion, severe allergic reactions, or breathlessness, which require immediate medical intervention.
Can medication side effects impact my overall health and daily life?
Yes, medication side effects can impact your overall health and daily life, especially if they are severe or persistent. Side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, or bowel troubles can interfere with daily activities and overall well-being. More serious side effects may lead to significant health complications requiring medical intervention.
Navigating Medication Risks for Better Health
While these medications offer significant benefits for managing various conditions, awareness and proactive management of their side effects are essential for overall health. Regular consultation with healthcare providers, close monitoring, and patient education are key strategies to ensure safe and effective medication use.
By: Alison Davidson
