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Serevent®

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When the FDA approved a new drug called Serevent® (almeterol xinafoate) for the treatment of asthma in 1994, they were unaware of the problems to come. Serevent®, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, later had its FDA-approved use extended to include treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Used daily, Serevent® controls the symptoms of asthma and is considered a long-acting bronchodilator. According to Serevent® marketing material, the medication provides up to twelve hours of relief from chest tightness and wheezing related to asthma and other chest conditions. While Serevent® enjoys great popularity with asthma victims, many users remain unaware that a recent study showed that users of Serevent® are three times more likely to die from asthma-related deaths as are users of other asthma medications.

In 1996, Serevent® was the subject of a study conducted by GlaxoSmithKline (due to FDA concerns). During the Serevent® study, a number of participants suffered fatal asthma attacks, leading to the cancellation of the study. In all, 36 participants in the Serevent® study experienced life-threatening asthma episodes, including several who died. Some of the Serevent® users had such severe difficulty breathing that they were intubated to re-open their airways. African-Americans who use Serevent® are at a higher risk for these problems than users of other ethnic backgrounds, and patients who do not use Serevent® in combination with another drug to fight inflammation also have increased odds of complications. A safety monitoring board shut down the Serevent® study, and the FDA required GlaxoSmithKline to place a black box warning (the highest level of warning) on all Serevent® product packaging and marketing materials. As of December 2003, no such warning existed on any Serevent® material, and there is no known target date for a warning to appear.

Patients who are currently taking Serevent® should consult a physician before altering or ceasing treatment. Many individuals have benefited from the use of Serevent®, but it is important to discuss all potential side effects with your doctor in order to determine whether or not Serevent® is the best option for controlling your asthma. If you or a loved one has suffered adverse effects or death as a result of using Serevent®, GlaxoSmithKline may be liable, and you could be entitled to recover all costs associated with medical treatment, hospital and/or funeral expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. Discuss potential Serevent® cases with an attorney who has experience in product liability and representing the victims of drug companies.

For more information on Serevent® and your legal rights, please contact us.

More Serevent® Resources

American Academy of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology - Resources and research funding information about those disorders.

MedWatch - Important safety information regarding Serevent and related side effects.