Raptiva

Genetech Inc. recalled Raptiva from the U.S. markets in 2009 following a public health advisory and a “black box” warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), its most severe warning. The FDA has received three reports of death following Raptiva use, as well as several reports linking Raptiva to life-threatening infections.

Raptiva Brain Infection – Raptiva Deaths

Raptiva is an injectable immunosuppressant medication that treats plaque psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that causes skin cells to collect on the surface. Many health care professionals believe that the medication suppresses the immune system to the extent that leaves users vulnerable to developing potentially fatal infections, including bacterial sepsis, viral meningitis, invasive fungal disease and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) – a rare, often fatal brain infection.

Patients who are using Raptiva should watch for the symptoms of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy and viral meningitis, which include:

• Difficulty speaking
• Headache
• Inability to concentrate
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Loss of coordination
• Personality changes
• Muscle spasms
• Muscle weakness
• Vision changes

Raptiva is not recommended for those younger than 18 years old, as the medication could lead to a permanent suppression of the immune system.

Filing A Raptiva Lawsuit

These potential Raptiva side effects can devastate a victim's life by placing him or her in severe danger of contracting potentially deadly infections. To save their health after developing one of these dangerous side effects, many victims must undergo expensive medical treatments. The defective drug attorneys at Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz can help victims regain their lives by obtaining compensatory damages for their medical bills and lost income. To learn more about filing a claim with AWKO, contact their office at (888) 255-2956.