By Desiree Housek, Staff Writer
Sanofi-Aventis, the manufacturer of Taxotere is currently being investigated for failing to adequately warn patients and physicians of the risk of permanent hair loss. Below is a list of common questions related to the Taxotere and the pending Taxotere lawsuits.
What is Taxotere?
Taxotere is an approved intravenous chemotherapy drug that is part of the taxanes family of drugs. It is used in the chemo treatment of breast cancer, metastatic prostate cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck cancer, as well as advanced stomach cancer.
Why is there a lawsuit?
The current Taxotere lawsuits are due to the failure of the manufacturer, Sanofi-Aventis, to warn physicians and patients that the use of Taxotere during chemotherapy is associated with an increased risk of permanent alopecia (loss of hair). The lawsuits allege that if the manufacturer had notified physicians and patients of associated risks, many may have chosen to prescribe an alternative drug called Taxol, which does not result in permanent hair loss and has been found to be more effective.
How do I know if my chemotherapy involved Taxotere?
Taxotere is administered for chemotherapy by a physician’s office or clinic and is not received through a pharmacy. There are now up to seven different generic versions, since Taxotere went generic in 2011. If you are unsure on whether or not Taxotere was used in your chemo treatment, contact the clinic or doctor’s office where you received treatment in order to verify the name and brand of medications used in your treatment. The Taxotere lawsuits are currently only being pursued for the name brand, and several of the generic versions that were produced by Sanofi.
What possible side effects are associated with the drug?
In addition to permanent baldness, the use of Taxotere is associated with the following potential side effects:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Change in taste
- Bone, muscle, and/or joint pain
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Mouth/throat sores
- Fluid retention
- Changes in fingernails and toenails
- Numbness of fingers and/or toes
More serious side effects nay include:
- Nerve damage
- Permanent hair loss
- Heart issues
- Death
Has Taxotere been recalled as a result of permanent hair loss?
Though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration acknowledged permanent hair loss in association with Taxotere, there has not been a recall issued. The drug is still in the early stages of investigation, which may or may not lead to a recall down the line. As of now the FDA has issued for a warning to now be placed on the drugs label.
What damages may I be entitled to?
If you have been affected by permanent hair loss after using Taxotere, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Permanence of injury
- Loss of income or ability to work
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
Is there a class action lawsuit?
As of now there is no class action lawsuit against Taxotere, and it is unlikely that litigation will be handled through a class action. Each lawsuit again Taxotere is being handled on an individual basis and will most likely result in a multi-district litigation. Taxotere victims will not be required to settle and will not be bound by the trial of any other individual.
How long do I have to file a Taxotere lawsuit?
Each state has a statute of limitations on when a claim must be filed. If a claim is not filed by the given time limitation, an injured person will no longer be permitted to bring a lawsuit again the company and/or person responsible.
If you have suffered permanent hair loss after using Taxotere for your chemotherapy treatment, it is important to speak with an experienced defective drug lawyer to better understand when you have to file a claim by, and better understand your rights.
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