Ketek

Ketek is a tablet-form antibiotic used to fight infections related to specific respiratory ailments. Studies show that Ketek causes severe liver damage in some patients.  It is manufactured by the French company Sanofi-Aventis and was twice denied approval by the FDA in 2001 and 2003 before being approved in 2004. Concerns have been raised regarding the viability of the drug trial data which led to the 2004 approval. Recently the FDA has required a black box warning on Ketek’s label.

A black box warning is the strongest alert the FDA can place on a prescription drug. It is designed to inform doctors and patients the drug carries a significant risk of serious or life-threatening complications. Even though the FDA is not necessitating a full recall, you should contact your doctor immediately if you are currently taking Ketek.

Studies show that Ketek possesses mild side effects, such as headaches and fainting, to severe side effects, including liver failure. As a result of these hazardous drug effects, Ketek is considered a defective drug. Often drug companies are negligent and do not fully inform doctors and patients about these side effects. Sanofi-Aventis may be required to compensate individuals who have become seriously ill or suffered severe liver damage due to Ketek. If you have become ill due to intake of Ketek, you should contact Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz at (888) 255-2956 to learn more about your legal rights and the possibility of compensation.

Side Effects of Ketek

Ketek’s side effects can be potentially life threatening. Known side effects of this defective drug include irregular heartbeat, faintness, allergic reaction, vision disturbances, nausea, headache and dizziness. The threat that Ketek can cause severe liver damage is a serious side effect and one Sanofi-Aventis has refuted. The manufacturer claims any link between the onset of liver damage and Ketek is due to misuse of the drug. Since the FDA began investigating Ketek in 2006, 12 cases have been discovered linking Ketek and severe liver damage. Of those cases, four have led to fatalities.  

Often drug companies are negligent and do not fully inform doctors and patients about the harmful side effects of their drugs. Sanofi-Aventis’s disregard for their consumers’ well-being has made them potentially liable for any illness or death caused by Ketek. The Law Offices of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz boast some of the most experienced personal injury attorneys in the United States. Contact the lawyers of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz today at (888) 255-2956 to learn more about your rights as a victim of Ketek. If you develop signs of hepatitis such as dark urine, jaundice, nausea, light-colored stools or belly pains you should immediately contact your doctor.