As a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), Nexium (generic: esomeprazole) is used in the treatment of issues involving excessive stomach acid, in particular, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Unfortunately, this medication has been linked to adverse Nexium side effects. Those who use Nexium may suffer from severe bone fractures as the result of diminished bone dexterity.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Nexium, 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.
What’s the problem?
Nexium was introduced to the U.S. market by the pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD is a condition in which the backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and possible injury to the esophagus. Esomeprazole, the active ingredient in Nexium, helps to alleviate the symptoms of GERD by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach.
Unfortunately, patients who use this medication may be unaware of the dangerous Nexium side effects that coincide with it. Taking a proton pump inhibitor such as Nexium may increase your risk of bone fracture in the hip, wrist, or spine. For these reasons, AstraZeneca has been targeted by numerous Nexium lawsuits.
Nexium Side Effects
Nexium side effects include the following:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Abdominal pain
- Allergic reactions
- Chest Pain
- Dark urine
- Fast heartbeat
- Fever
- Increased rate of bone fracture
Nexium Bone Fracture
Studies suggest that the use of proton pump inhibitors like Nexium, may increase the risk of bone deterioration and ultimately Nexium bone fractures. Recently, AstraZeneca had to update their warning saying that bone fractures appeared to be linked to Nexium in high doses or over a long period of time.
In fact, a Nexium bone fracture lawsuit was recently filed on April 19 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. According to the plaintiff, she suffered a broken leg in July 2005 and again in 2007 due to bone deterioration while on Nexium.
FDA Bone Fracture Warning
The FDA issued a warning to consumers and health care professionals about a possible increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine with proton pump inhibitors like Nexium. The product labeling will be changed to describe this possible increased risk.
“Epidemiology studies suggest a possible increased risk of bone fractures with the use of proton pump inhibitors for one year or longer, or at high doses,” said Joyce Korvick, M.D., deputy director for safety in FDA’s Division of Gastroenterology Products.
FDA’s warning and decision to revise the labeling of proton pump inhibitors are based on the Agency’s review of several epidemiological studies that reported an increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist and spine in patients using proton pump inhibitors.
Do I have a Nexium 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 Nexium lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Nexium, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-800-773-0849. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.