Protopic

Protopic is a topical eczema ointment manufactured by Astellas Pharma. This drug is a form of tacrolimus similar to the medication Prograf. Prograf is an immunosuppressant drug given to transplant recipients to fight organ rejection. In 2005 the Food and Drug Administration became aware of the increased risk of lymphoma and/or skin cancer to users of Protopic.

As a result of this cancer causing side effect, Protopic can be considered a defective drug. Often drug companies are negligent and do not fully inform doctors and patients about these side effects. Astellas Pharma may be required to compensate individuals who have been afflicted with lymphoma or skin cancer due to using Protopic. If you have been diagnosed with cancer due to taking Protopic, 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 Protopic

Protopic utilizes the same chemical, tacrolimus, to help treat eczema as Prograf uses to help fight organ rejection. Since tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant medication, it has the potential of weakening the immune system to such a degree that the body becomes susceptible to serious diseases, including cancer. In January 2006, the FDA required that a black box warning be placed on Protopic’s label to better explain the dangerous side effects of the drug. Astellas Pharma fought hard to avoid this black box warning label. Currently the FDA only recommends Protopic be used as a second-line agent for eczema sufferers who have had unsuccessful treatments with other therapy agents.

Astellas Pharma’s dispute with the FDA’s warning linking Protopic with lymphoma and/or skin cancer shows its irresponsibility in protecting patients who use their drugs. Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe for public consumption. Astellas Pharma’s disregard for their consumers’ well-being has made them potentially liable for any serious disease, including cancer facilitated by taking Protopic. The Law Offices of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz boast some of the most experienced personal injury attorneys in the United States. Contact the attorneys of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz today at (888) 255-2956 to learn more about your rights if you have suffered any illness related to Protopic.