Taking a cancer drug? A dangerous drug lawyer in Sayville can discuss the validity of a claim if a patient is harmed by the medication, Herceptin. This medication has been used for the treatment of HER-2 positive breast cancer. It helps by regulating cell growth; however, it may also cause certain side effects that may prove dangerous.
Possible Herceptin Side Effects
Warnings for trastuzumab injection (for which Herceptin is a brand name), as seen on U.S. National Library of Medicine, indicate that the medication may cause:
- serious heart problems;
- lung damage; or
- harm to unborn babies.
Individuals who take the medication are advised to inform their doctor if they have or have had heart disease, lung disease/tumor, or are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It also advised to inform the doctor if you are undergoing radiation therapy on the chest or certain types of cancer medication.
Patients are advised to inform their doctor right away if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- cough;
- shortness of breath;
- swelling in the upper or lower extremities;
- rapid weight gain, such as 5lb in 24 hours;
- fever;
- chills;
- nausea or vomiting;
- pain;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- weakness;
- rash or hives;
- itching;
- tightening of throat; and
- difficulty breathing/swallowing.
Patients should also inform their doctor if they become pregnant while taking this medication. Physicians may order tests if patients are at risk of the complications associated with this drug, such as heart disease or lung damage. Monitoring and further testing may be performed while taking the medication.
A discussion should be had with the physician regarding the potential risks of the medication prior to receiving injections. Although this drug has helped many cancer patients, it can also cause potentially serious complications of which patients should be aware and should discuss with their doctor.
Steps to Take If Injured by a Dangerous Drug
If you or a loved one has experienced side effects or complications of Herceptin that have led to injury, you may be entitled to compensation if a standard of care was not met. If the standard of care was met, you may not have a valid claim even if you experienced injury as a result of taking the drug.
Be sure to collect material that may be helpful for investigation and evidence and this could include:
- instructions;
- warnings;
- advertisements;
- warranties;
- product literature; or
- anything else that pertains to the drug.
Make sure you also collect and keep in one place all of your:
- receipts for the medication;
- medical bills and records;
- results from lab findings; and
- anything related to your care.
The more documentation you have, the stronger your case. Your next step is to consult with a dangerous drug lawyer in Sayville immediately to discuss the case and whether your claim is a legitimate one.
Contacting a Dangerous Drug Lawyer in Sayville
If someone you love has been a victim or you believe that your illness or injuries were caused by this drug, it’s important to consult with an attorney at Gacovino, Lake & Associates. We can evaluate your case and determine if you have a legitimate claim worth pursuing. We will also take the time to consider the physical, emotional and financial struggles you have dealt with as a result.
Compensation may be available which can address your hospital and doctor expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, disability and more. If this drug caused the death of a loved one, you may be able to recover damages for medical and funeral expenses and loss of consortium related to household services, affection, care of children and more.
Contact our law firm today at 1-800-246-4878. We are here to help you fight for the compensation to which you may be entitled.
