FDA Announces New Plavix Safety Warning

Federal drug regulators have added their strongest safety warning, a black-box warning, to the label of Plavix, a widely used blood thinner designed to prevent dangerous blood clots.

The FDA says it has learned that certain patients on Plavix may not be able to metabolize the drug and, therefore, may be at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. In fact, according to data, about 2 to 14 percent of Americans lack certain liver enzymes needed to break down the drug. 

The new label will also inform doctors of certain genetic tests that can be utilized to identify patients who may not be suitable for Plavix.

Plavix Side Effects

According to the latest reports, patients who are unable to process Plavix may be at an increased risk of heart attack or stroke because their bodies are unable to convert Plavix into its active form, thus minimizing its effectiveness.

Patients who are currently on Plavix should consult their medical professional before discontinuing the drug. Alternative treatments, including Aspirin and similar drugs, may be prescribed to those who are deemed unsuitable for Plavix. Although extensive research is currently underway, the FDA has stated that the inability to metabolize Plavix may vary by race.

Plavix Lawsuits

The manufacturers of Plavix, Bristol-Myers and Sanofi-Aventis, are cooperating with the FDA and have announced that a new label for Plavix is expected within the next two months.

Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to inform patients of adverse side effects associated with their products. Failure to do so may lead to a personal injury / wrongful death lawsuit.

If you or a love one has been harmed while on Plavix, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your suffering. To learn more and to schedule a free case evaluation, please contact the AWKO team at (888) 255-2956.