Defecetive Drugs: adrugrecall.com
NEWS
Sign up for our newsletter
to receive breaking news about drugs to watch
Blog Network Coming Soon.
Find A Lawyer
Near You
Contact us today for a complimentary consultation with a qualified attorney near you.
Subscribe To Our Syndicated NewsRemicade and Humira Cause Cancer, Infection
-May 17, 2006
A Mayo Clinic study indicates that arthritis drugs Humira and Remicade triple the risk of many types of cancer and double the risk of serious infections . While the overall risk of developing cancer from these drugs remains small, the risk can vary widely by patient.
This is not the first time studies have indicated an increased risk of cancer and infection associated with these arthritis drugs. However, this study is the first to quantify these risks and discover additional types of cancer linked to Humira and Remicade.
Previous evidence suggested that these drugs might increase the risk of lymphoma , a cancer of the lymph nodes. Past research also found that the risk of tuberculosis and pneumonia was greater for patients taking Humira or Remicade.
New evidence from the Mayo Clinic study shows that these drugs can also increase the risk of other cancers of the skin, gastrointestinal system, breasts, lungs, and more .
These serious side effect risks appear to be greatest when higher doses are used. Researchers also noted that older sicker patients who have taken this medication for an extended time are at the greatest risk for these arthritis drug side effects.
While medical researchers at the Mayo Clinic noted the benefits of Humira and Remicade-including increased range of motion, flexibility, and life expectancy and a reduction in pain-they caution patients and medical providers to be aware of these risks and their symptoms.
Patients taking these medications should seek m edical attention at the first sign of infection , such as a fever, cough, or related symptoms. Some patients may wish to consider cancer screenings; those which are recommended to the general public.
According to the Arthritis foundation, at least two million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis , an autoimmune condition whereby the body essentially attacks the joints of the body, causing inflammation, pain, and deformity. At least half a million people have used potent TNF-blocking drugs like Humira and Remicade.
Abbott Laboratories and Centocor, the makers of Humira and Remicade, respectively, have criticized the Mayo Clinic's study , claiming that this new evidence does not prove that these arthritis drugs cause cancer and infection. Other experts have raised questions as to whether the increased risk of cancer is actually attributable to the drugs or the disease itself. The exact reason for these increased risks remains unclear.
An additional drug, Enbrel , was not included in this study, as it differs at the molecular level. Researchers say a study on this arthritis drug is in the works.
For more information on drug safety concerns, please contact us.
