Almost 6,000 men have stepped forward and filed lawsuits alleging AbbVie’s AndroGel testosterone therapy caused them to suffer serious adverse events including heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots. These testosterone products are extremely popular, with men using them to treat hypogonadism and a host of other testosterone-related health concerns.
If you or a family member used AndroGel and suffered a heart attack, stroke, blood clot, or other serious complication, let us know. An Androgel testosterone therapy lawsuit lawyer from Gacovino, Lake, & Associates P.C. can help you understand whether you have a viable case and weigh your legal options for compensation. Call our office today at 800-550-000 to schedule your free initial consultation.
What Is the Problem with AndroGel?
Androgel is a prescription testosterone treatment that doctors widely prescribe to address almost any low testosterone issue. Many men asked their doctors about this therapy after seeing commercials about “Low T,” an illness that consists of normal symptoms of the aging process such as fatigue and low libido.
They received a prescription, and most did not realize the serious nature of the potential side effects.
AndroGel is linked to several serious health complications. Men who use this testosterone therapy report an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and other potentially deadly adverse events. If you use this therapy, it is important to carefully monitor your health and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.
If you are using this medication for “Low T” symptoms or other relatively minor complaints, you may want to discuss your situation with your doctor. There may be other options to help you increase your libido that do not increase your risk of suffering a major cardiac event.
Has the FDA Taken Action About AndroGel?
AndroGel first came under scrutiny with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in 2014, when the agency put together an advisory committee to investigate the reports of adverse cardiovascular outcomes associated with testosterone replacement therapies like AndroGel.
After this investigation, the FDA announced in March of 2015 that it would require updated product labels that include information about the increased risk of heart attacks and stroke.
In addition, the FDA mandated the labels make it clear that the FDA only approved the testosterone therapy for very specific uses. This includes hypogonadism, but does not include age-related decreases in the hormone. There is no definitive proof this product or other similar testosterone replacement drugs are safe for this use, or that they are effective when used in this way.
The FDA acted again in June of 2015, adding a general warning about blood clots to the label. This warns users about an increased risk of thromboembolism, deep vein thrombosis and other venous blood clots, and pulmonary embolism.
What Is the Current Status of AndroGel Litigation against AbbVie?
More than 6,000 Androgel lawsuits are currently consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois. The plaintiffs in these cases joined together for pretrial motions and the discovery portion of the process. After this process was complete, they moved forward to a number of bellwether trials, which allowed both the plaintiffs and the defense to see how strong their cases are.
As of November 2017, the juries awarded the plaintiffs significant payouts in two bellwether trials. The first bellwether trial in MDL wrapped up in July of 2017, and the jury sided with the plaintiff, an Oregon man who suffered adverse effects after using AndroGel. The court awarded him $150 million in punitive damages.
A Chicago federal jury heard the second bellwether trial in October of 2017. In this case, the court awarded a Tennessee man $140 million after he suffered a cardiovascular event while taking AndroGel.
While the multidistrict litigation relating to AndroGel testosterone therapy is already well underway, it is not too late to file your own claim. If you believe you have a viable case against AbbVie because of the increased cardiovascular risks associated with AndroGel testosterone therapy, give us a call today. We are still evaluating these cases, and can help you file your claim.
How Can I Talk About Androgel Testosterone Therapy Lawsuits with an Attorney?
At Gacovino, Lake, & Associates P.C., our lawyers understand how difficult it can be to bounce back from a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot, even when the impact is seemingly minor. We are here to help you get the compensation you deserve to get back on your feet.
If you believe AndroGel or another similar testosterone therapy drug caused or contributed to your heart attack or stroke, let us evaluate your case and determine if you have a viable claim.
Call us today at 800-550-0000 to schedule a free consultation with one of our AndroGel testosterone therapy lawsuit lawyers. You pay nothing unless we settle your claim or recover compensation on your behalf.
