Multaq® Case Study
Multaq® (dronedarone) is a medication commonly prescribed to treat patients with cardiac arrhythmia. It helps to regulate the heartbeat and prevent the patient from being hospitalized due to complications from the condition. The drug is given to patients that have had an atrial fibrillation or an atrial flutter over the last six months or those who suffer from the heart conditions that would cause the patient to be hospitalized.
Although Multaq® has been shown to effectively treat an irregular heartbeat, there is evidence that it can cause side effects. Common side effects include diarrhea, stomach pain, skin irritation, heartburn, weight gain, slow heartbeat (bradycardia) and breathing problems.
Serious side effects include liver and kidney damage, as well as kidney failure. The drug is not appropriate for patients who suffer from moderate to severe congestive heart failure. Use of Multaq® can increase the risk of death in patients with severe heart failure.
Multaq® Recent Studies
Recent studies have questioned the safety of Multaq®. Multaq® research is underway around the world. Regulatory agencies in Europe, reportedly, have questioned the use of the drug as a safe alternative to amiodarone, saying that its side effects might be just as bad or worse.
Some patients have reported adverse side effects, including long-term liver and kidney damage. On Jan. 14, 2011. the FDA reported that it has received several reports of liver damage. Two of the patients had to have their livers removed.
According to reports, the two patients that had to have their livers removed were about 70 years old. They were both women; one had been taking Multaq® for 4.5 months and the other had been taking it for 6 months.
Sanofi-Aventis, the manufacturer of Multaq®, says it sent letters to doctors and healthcare providers to warn them of the risk of liver problems. The company says it recommends that healthcare providers conduct liver enzyme tests during the first six months of treatment.
Talk to a Multaq® Lawyer
If you or a loved one has experienced liver damage, heart failure, kidney damage, or another serious side effect while taking Multaq®, contact a qualified Multaq® lawyer for help. You may be able to seek compensation for your medical costs, lost wages and pain and suffering.
To find out if you qualify, please contact us today. We provide case evaluations for patients who believe they have been harmed by the drug.
