Popular Anemia Medications May Be Responsible For Heart Attacks

In the event of a heart attack, consumers have been lead to believe that taking anemia medications like Epogen and Procrit may reduce the damage inflicted on the heart. However, recent studies suggest that anemia drugs may not only serve as ineffective solutions, but may be hazardous to one’s health as well.

In a recent publication of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), researchers acknowledged a growing concern within the healthcare community regarding prescription anemia drugs containing the active ingredient erythropoietin. Marketed under the brand names Epogen and Procrit, erythropoietin is intended for use in the treatment of patients with kidney disease, anemia, HIV and cancer to stimulate bones and increase the production of red blood cells.

Healthcare officials implemented a clinical study that involved 222 patients receiving either Epogen, Procrit, or a placebo. They found no evidence that demonstrated the medications ability to prevent heart attack or heal the affected tissue thereafter. Unfortunately, five of the patients receiving the actual medication suffered from a second heart attack, developed new blockages in previous clogged arteries or died. Accordingly, patients who received the placebo reported no ill side effects after the study took place.

Adverse health reports regarding erythropoietin-containing drugs and their association with an increased risk of heart attack have lead to a steady decrease in sales over the years. To add to already festering concerns regarding the questionable drugs, the, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sanctioned a public health advisory in 2007. The FDA informed the healthcare community and consumers that Epogen and Procrit may increase the risk of injury or death in high doses. As a result, the FDA required that the drugs add a “black box warning” alerting patients to the risk of blood clots, strokes, heart attacks and death.

Do I have an Erythropoietin 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 erythropoietin lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one was injured by erythropoietin, you may be entitled to financial compensation by filing a erythropoietin lawsuit. For a free case review, please click the link below or call toll free 24 hrs/day 1-800-773-0849.