Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a blood disorder that results in the abnormal creation of blood clots within several small vessels around the body. Subsequently, this condition is synonymous with potentially hazardous low platelet counts. While severe in nature, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is relatively uncommon. However, the use of Plavix, a popular anti-platelet medication, may be responsible for a significant increase in the rate that this condition is developed.
If you or a loved one has suffered from thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura after using Plavix, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Plavix Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Lawsuit Overview
Manufactured and distributed by Sanofi Aventis, Plavix is intended to assist in the prevention of atherosclerotic events following recent myocardial infarction, stroke or established peripheral arterial disease. Having been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since November 17, 1997, Plavix has established itself as the world’s most successful anti-platelet medication. Subsequently, doctors have written Plavix prescriptions to over 115 million patients.
According to a distinct mechanism of action, Plavix is considered an anti-platelet drug of the ADP antagonist (thienopyridines) category. As an anti-platelet medication, Plavix has the inherent ability to prevent the aggregation of platelets that could potentially inhibit the flow of blood through an artery. In doing so, Plavix irreversibly inhibits a specific protein found on the surface of blood platelets that is responsible for the regulation of blood clots. By preventing specific actions taken by this protein, Plavix may halt the aggregation of platelets and reduce the risk of unnecessary blood clots. Subsequently, Plavix may significantly lower the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Unfortunately, the pharmacodynamics of Plavix may also be responsible for a variety of debilitating conditions with varying degrees of severity. Subsequently, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura has recently been associated with the use of Plavix. In what medical practitioners are referring to as Plavix thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, this medication may induce several unnecessary and dangerous blood clots throughout the body.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is a rare blood disorder characterized by a disruption in the coagulation process of red blood cells. Subsequently, the condition may result in extensive microscopic thromboses (blood clots) forming in numerous small blood vessels throughout the body. The presence of such blood clots may coincide with severe, life-threatening complications. Due to the severe nature of this condition, patients may contact a lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation of their potential Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura lawsuit.
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Side effects
The following is a comprehensive list of the side effects that have been associated with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura:
- Bleeding into the skin or mucus membranes
- Changes in consciousness
- Confusion
- Easy fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
- Increased heart rate
- Pallor
- Purplish spots in the skin produced by small bleeding vessels near the surface
- Shortness of breath
- Speech changes
- Weakness
- Jaundice
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Complications
While the evolution of plasma exchange continues to improve the expectations of those diagnosed with TTP, it is not without significant complications. If TTP is not addressed immediately, people may endure potentially fatal circumstances. Those who do not recover may develop the following chronic complications:
- Kidney failure
- Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
- Low red blood cell count (due to the premature breakdown of red blood cells)
- Nervous system complications
- Severe bleeding
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Death
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Treatment
The therapy of choice for TTP is plasma exchange with fresh frozen plasma. Replacement with normal saline and albumin is not adequate. When immediate plasma exchange is not available, simple plasma infusion can be performed until transfer to a facility that performs plasma exchange. Circumstances such as this require daily treatment until blood tests show improvement.
While plasma exchange is generally accepted as safe and effective, it is not without fault. Not everyone responds to such an invasive treatment with complications. Those who do not respond well to plasma exchange may need to have their spleen surgically removed. Subsequently, drugs like corticosteroids and rituximab may be used to suppress the immune system, therefore, allowing the exchange to take place.
Do I Have a Plavix Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Plavix thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has suffered from thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura after using Plavix, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.