Valsartan, which came on the market in 1996, is a drug used by millions of people to treat high blood pressure. But starting in 2018, the FDA began ordering recalls of several generic versions after discovering that they included chemicals found to be potential causes of digestive-tract cancer and liver damage if consumed in large doses over a lengthy period. Since the recalls, lawsuits have been filed across the country, alleging the drug manufacturers knew about the problem as early as 2012 but failed to take remedial action. Those suits have been consolidated as a mass tort case in federal court.
Valsartan is part of a group of drugs collectively known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which also include Losartan and Irbesartan. However, not all Valsartan-type drugs are contaminated. Most of the generic ARBs found to have been tainted by the carcinogens N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) were manufactured in laboratories overseas. Diovan, the brand-name version of Valsartan made in the U.S., was not affected.
Fortunately, the FDA has fast-tracked approval of replacement ARBs that appear to be safe. However, recalling the defective drug might not help all those who relied on it to treat their high blood pressure in the intervening years.
When companies sell potentially dangerous products without appropriate warnings, they may be liable for the harm they cause consumers of those products. They are also liable for product impurities resulting from defective manufacturing. If you or a family member used Valsartan or another ARB drug to treat high blood pressure and thereafter contracted cancer or liver damage, you may be able to join plaintiffs that have already filed products liability claims.
The skilled, experienced, and hard-working product liability attorneys of Kaufman & McPherson, PLLC are prepared to help. We will listen to your story, examine your medical records and determine if you have a potential case. Once we file suit, we will guide you through the process as we build a case for liability and document your damages. We will try to negotiate a just settlement with the defendants on your behalf and if necessary will present your case skillfully and vigorously at trial. To consult with us about the Valsartan claim, call 304-842-4300 or contact us online.
