Over the last few years, a number of the newer-generation blood thinners have come into question because of increased risks of internal bleeding. The latest of these is best known under the brand name Eliquis. Research and reports link this blood thinner, known generically as apixaban, to internal bleeding. Patients who suffered adverse effects claim manufacturers Bristol-Meyers Squibb Co. and Pfizer Inc. failed to adequately warn them of this risk, despite warnings on the medication packaging and other documents.
If you or a loved one suffered internal bleeding while taking Eliquis, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the drug’s manufacturer. An Eliquis internal bleeding lawsuit lawyer at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. is here to help you understand your legal options and pursue a claim on your behalf. Call us today at 631-600-0000 to schedule a complimentary case evaluation.
What Is the Purpose of Eliquis? How Does It Cause Internal Bleeding?
For decades, warfarin — known by the brand name Coumadin — was the go-to blood thinner. While it works effectively, and doctors can easily reverse its blood-thinning effects if necessary, patients prescribed the drug must undergo regular blood tests.
Because of the blood testing requirements, patients and doctors alike looked for an alternative for years. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved these medications for the reduction of the risk of stroke or cardiac events, or for patients at high risk of blood clots.
While patients who use these drugs do not need regular blood tests, they face increased risks for serious internal bleeding. This bleeding most commonly occurs in the gastrointestinal tract and brain, although other users report heavy vaginal bleeding or internal bleeding in the heart or lungs.
The manufacturers of these medications do not deny that significant internal bleeding can occur. This could be an issue with any blood-thinning medication. They do argue, however, that the warnings included on the package and instructions are appropriate based on the nature and severity of this side effect.
How Is This Similar to Other Blood Thinner Lawsuits?
Eliquis is just the latest newer-generation blood thinner to face these allegations.
What Is the Current Status of The Eliquis Internal Bleeding Lawsuits?
Dozens of plaintiffs have already filed suit against the pharmaceutical companies who produce and market Eliquis. They accuse these drug manufacturers of several negligent activities, including misrepresentation and breach of warranty. They also allege the drug companies violated consumer protection laws. At the heart of these accusations is their belief that the manufacturer failed to adequately warn users of the risk of internal bleeding, which may be severe and lead to death.
The plaintiffs in these cases consolidated into multidistrict litigation and expected several hundred more victims to file suit and join them. However, recent action by the federal judge overseeing these lawsuits may discourage some people.
In May of 2017, the judge challenged all plaintiffs to prove their suit had merit beyond claiming an inadequate warning. Just two months later, she threw out 20 of the cases pending because they failed to do so. According to her decision, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. and Pfizer, Inc. “clearly disclosed” the risk of internal bleeding to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and their labeling for the medication “prominently discloses” the danger.
While this is a significant blow to many of these plaintiffs, some will likely be able to show their claims have merit above and beyond the question of warning. We are still accepting Eliquis internal bleeding lawsuits if you believe you have a strong case against Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. and Pfizer, Inc.
We offer free case reviews and can evaluate your situation to determine if we might be able to reach a settlement or recover compensation based on your damages. If you qualify to file a claim, we will represent you free of charge until we get the money you deserve. If we cannot recover compensation in your case, we will not receive payment for our services.
How Can I Talk with an Eliquis Internal Bleeding Lawsuit Lawyer About My Case?
The knowledgeable mass tort attorneys at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. know how to navigate the claims process for you. We understand the litigation pending against the manufacturers of Eliquis and can evaluate the merits of your claim based on the latest information available.
Call us today at 631-600-0000 to schedule a complimentary case review, and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
