Prescription Drug Side Effects Lead to Lawsuits

Accutane is an oral prescription medicine used to treat acne which was developed and sold by Roche Pharmaceuticals until 2009 when it was withdrawn from the market. This drug, whose main ingredient is a chemical called isotretinoin, has been associated with several dangerous side effects of both a psychological and physical nature. These side effects include inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's Disease, depression, suicidal thoughts, birth defects, liver problems, and bone disease. Because of the serious and life-threatening nature of many of these side effects, about 5,000 lawsuits were filed against the manufacturer as personal injury cases.

In one case, a Hollywood actor sued Roche for damages in a claim that his intestinal system had been destroyed by the drug which led to the removal of his colon. Other lawsuits also involved claims of intestinal damage and diseases. Those who have sustained this type of injury often continue to have a physical problem long after stopping their usage of the drug. Accutane has also been linked with mental retardation, hearing and eye problems, and malformations of facial parts in newborns whose mothers ingested it during pregnancy. Studies have also shown a link between the drug and psychological problems, include attempted suicides and psychosis. In another case, a U.S. Senator believed that his son's suicide was caused by the adverse psychological effects of the drug.

Personal Injury Representation in Coral Springs, FL

Accutane is an example of a dangerous drug whose adverse side effects far outweigh its benefits. When such a harmful drug results in damage to consumers, a personal injury claim may be initiated against the manufacturer. Getting the professional legal advice and guidance of a proven attorney is recommended in such cases. The law firm of Weinstein & Scharf P.A. based in Coral Springs, is dedicated to aggressively representing individuals in cases of negligence leading to injury. The legal team has more than 85 years of combined experience in this area and is prepared to fight on your behalf for the maximum compensation to which you may be entitled under the law.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by taking a dangerous drug, get the legal guidance you need to find out whether you have a valid case which should be pursued. Contact the firm to arrange for a free consultation today. Find out what can be done to protect your legal rights, your health, and your future.