Zelnorm (generic tegaserod maleate) was approved in 2002 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and constipation by increasing the movement of stools through the bowels. IBS is a painful and debilitation condition, which is difficult to successfully treat. While dietary changes can be helpful, they are usually not enough to keep the symptoms away. Even with medication, most IBS sufferers have to be very careful about what they eat.
But in March 2007, the FDA asked the manufacturer of this drug, Novartis, to remove Zelnorm from the market due to an increase in the risk of strokes, chest pain, heart attacks, and death the drug was causing. The evidence actually indicated a tenfold increase in the risk of suffering a heart attack in patients taking this drug compared to the general population.
Anyone who has taken Zelnorm and is suffering any of the following side effects, should consult their physician immediately:
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Cramps
Dehydration
Fatigue
Dizziness
Bloating
Lower back pain
Rectal bleeding
Sudden loss of vision
Sudden paralysis
Vomiting
If you or a loved one has taken this drug and suffered these effects, please contact an experienced pharmaceutical injury lawyer in your area.
