Serzone:
Serzone is a drug that is manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Bristol Myers Squibb, and was approved for use in the United States in December 1994 by the Food and Drugs Administration. Serzone, which is generically known as nefazodone hydrochloride, was approved for use in the treatment of depression and anxiety, and because the sexual and weight gain side effects of this drug were minimal it gained popularity quickly and with many. Millions of prescriptions for Serzone had soon been issued to those that were concerned about the side effects of other anti-depressants and wanted to try this new ‘wonder pill’.
Although the side effects typically associated with anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications did not seem to be a big concern with Serzone, it was soon discovered that this drug had other side effects that had far more sinister implications. Reports of Serzone-related liver failures and deaths soon began to roll in, and it was thought that there could be many more incidents of both that had simply gone unreported. It was found that patients with a pre-existing liver condition or a family history of liver disorders were especially at risk.
In March 2003, the Food and Drugs Administration was petitioned by the American public health group, Public Citizen. After the Food and Drugs Administration failed to act upon this petition, Public Citizen submitted yet another petition to the FDA in October 2003. Once again, no action was taken in the United States, although Canadian officials confirmed that they would be banning the drug because of its potentially deadly and harmful side effects. The FDA, however, simply ordered the manufacturer of Serzone to add a more serious warning on the packaging of the drug to make people more aware of the potential dangers of taking Serzone.
Following the failure to act, Public Citizen sued the Food and Drugs Administration for not taking any action following the petitions and information that the agency received. Bristol Myers Squibb, the manufacturer of Serzone, finally stated in 2004 that Serzone would be recalled and pulled from the US market. However, the manufacturer also added that the generic version of the drug would remain available throughout the United States. This did nothing to change the minds of Public Citizen officials, and they continued to with the lawsuit against the Food and Drugs Administration as well as lobbying against the availability of the generic version of Serzone.
Anyone that has taken Serzone should look out for any signs of side effects, and in the event that any problems are experienced should seek immediate medical attention. Some of the symptoms to look out for include:
- Jaundiced looking skin or yellowing of eyes
- Darkened urine
- Long term appetite loss of several days or more
- Nausea
- Abdominal pains
- Rash
- Seizures
- Fainting
- Prolonged erections
As well as seeking immediate medical attention should you experience any of these side effects, you should also look into legal representation. If you have suffered ill health effects through taking Serzone, you could well be entitled to compensation for your pain, suffering, harm, and injuries. You will find many drugs litigation and product liability lawyers that will be able to look into your case and advise whether it is worth pursuing compensation. With many lawyers offering a free initial consultation, it is worth seeking legal advice even if you are not sure whether you have grounds to file for compensation. An experienced Serzone lawyer will be able to evaluate your case and determine the viability of a claim in the initial meeting.
An experienced Serzone lawyer will aim to get you compensation for medical expenses incurred as a result of taking Serzone, as well as pain, suffering, and loss of wages. The amount to which you may be entitled will depend upon the seriousness of the side effects and the amount of any expenses incurred by you as a result of these effects.
There are a number of options or routes you can take in order to claim compensation from the manufacturer of Serzone, and an experienced drug litigation lawyer will be able to discuss the various options with you and decide which is the best option to maximize your chances of success.
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