There is mounting evidence that Raptiva, a psoriasis drug manufactured by Genetech, may cause a rare brain infection in patients who take the drug. In October 2008, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) placed a “black box” warning on Raptiva. This is the FDA’s strongest warning and is reserved for drugs that may cause life-threatening conditions.
This past February, the FDA went a step further and issued a public health advisory for Raptiva after receiving reports of several people developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) after taking Raptiva for three or more years. Three people have died from contracting PML after taking the defective drug.
PML develops as a result of a virus that affects the central nervous system, and it usually arises in people with weakened immune systems. PML can cause permanent damage to neurologic function and in severe cases, death. Symptoms of PML include unusual weakness, loss of coordination, changes in vision, difficulty speaking, and personality changes.
Raptiva is taken once a week by adults suffering from moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. The drug is injected into your body, and it suppresses T-cells, a part of your immune system, in an attempt to control psoriasis. By suppressing T-cells, Raptiva increases your vulnerability to infections.
The FDA is trying to take the appropriate steps to ensure that psoriasis patients understand the risks associated with taking this dangerous drug, and it is urging doctors to more carefully monitor patients taking Raptiva for symptoms of PML.
If you have developed PML or any other dangerous condition from taking Raptiva, you should consult an experienced pharmaceutical liability lawyer immediately. You may be eligible to receive compensation for your damages.
If you have a Raptiva claim in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area, please contact Carr & Carr, Attorneys at Law today to schedule a consultation.
