Aciphex (generic: rabeprazole) belongs to a classification of drugs known as a proton pump inhibitors (PPI’s). It is used in the treatment of those suffering from excessive stomach acid, in particular, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Unfortunately, severe Aciphex side effects have been associated with long term use of the drug. Anyone who uses Aciphex may increase their risk of severe bone fractures as a result of diminished bone strength.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Aciphex, you should contact our lawyersimmediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
What’s the problem?
Aciphex was introduced to the U.S. market as a PPI, and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Rabeprazole, the active ingredient in Aciphex, helps to alleviate hazardous situations caused by excessive amounts of acid in the stomach. Therefore relieving the symptoms of GERD, a condition in which the backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and possible injury to the esophagus.
Unfortunately, people may take this medication without realizing the potentially dangerous side effects of Aciphex. Taking a PPI like Aciphex can increase your risk of bone fracture in the hip, wrist, or spine. For these reasons, the manufacturer of Aciphex has been targeted by numerous Aciphex lawsuits.
Aciphex Side Effects
Aciphex 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
Aciphex Bone Fracture
Recent tests have uncovered that the use of PPI’s like Aciphex, can increase the risk of a patient suffering from painful bone deterioration and ultimately Aciphex bone fractures. In response to an increasing amount of instances where users of Aciphex have suffered bone fractures, the manufacturer of the drug had to update their warning label. The new label states that bone fractures might be linked to Aciphex in high doses or over a long period of time.
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 Aciphex. 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 Aciphex 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 Aciphex lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Aciphex, 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.