Despite just being introduced to the market in 2011, the anticoagulant Xarelto is now being used by approximately 4 million patients in Texas and across the country. Total annual sales are now approaching the $1 billion mark. The medication has been approved by the FDA for use in treating patients determined by their physicians to be at risk for blood clots and strokes.
Although any blood thinner comes with a risk of internal bleeding, there have been lawsuits filed that allege that patients were not always properly notified of the bleeding risk. Hundreds of lawsuits have also been filed regarding internal bleeding events in patients taking another anticoagulant, Pradaxa.
Reports of Xarelto Side Effects
In 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reported receiving several hundred reports of adverse events purportedly linked to Xarelto (rivaroxaban) usage. Lawsuits have sometimes alleged that the lack of an approved reversing agent that could be used in the event of internal hemorrhaging caused serious injury or loss of life. The traditional blood thinner Coumadin was used with the foreknowledge that Vitamin K could be administered to reverse the anticoagulant action of the medication. No such approved antidote exists in the case of Xarelto.
Adverse Xarelto side effects, including uncontrollable internal bleeding, are now cited in an increasing number of lawsuits being filed in Texas and in other states. Plaintiffs may seek compensation for losses associated with injury or death. Compensation may be sought for medical costs, possible lost wages, pain and suffering and potential long-term care. Survivors may file wrongful death lawsuits that also seek compensation for burial expenses, pain and suffering and loss of companionship.
Some claimants have also demanded the recall of Xarelto until an appropriate antidote to hemorrhaging and other internal bleeding can be developed and then approved by the FDA.
Manufacturer Still Seeking Wider Use of Xarelto
Despite the growing incidence of litigation regarding Xarelto side effects, the manufacturer is forging ahead with plans to seek even wider use of the medication. For example, it has announced plans the seek FDA approval for Xarelto use in the treatment of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Despite the fact that it was turned down by the FDA on three previous occasions, it is involved in three new clinical trials designed to make a case for Xarelto use in treating ACS. In past refusals, the FDA cited excessive bleeding risk as a reason for non-approval.
Injured by Xarelto Side Effects?
To get answers to your personal questions regarding the use of Xarelto by you or a loved one, please contact us at Attorney Group for Texas. We can help you determine if you have a claim, and connect you with an affiliated attorney who can assist you through the legal process. Contact us today to learn more in a free consultation.
