Valsartan, a popular hypertension medication, has been found to contain certain chemicals that have been linked to increase the risk of cancer. Many people are unaware of the potential dangers associated with the drug and may have been unknowingly exposed to these harmful chemicals.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer after taking the medication, you may be entitled to compensation through a Valsartan cancer lawsuit.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the chemicals in Valsartan that have been found to cause cancer and the legal action being taken by those affected.
What is Valsartan?
Valsartan is a medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure and heart failure. It works by blocking certain receptors in the body, which helps to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
Valsartan is sold under its brand name, Diovan®, and is also available as a generic medication, meaning multiple manufacturers can produce it.
Valsartan has been on the market since 1996 and was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adults. In 2011, the FDA approved its use in children ages 6-16 for the treatment of high blood pressure. It has since become a widely prescribed medication, with millions of people around the world taking it to manage their hypertension.
The Chemicals in Valsartan that Have Been Linked to Cancer?
In July 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a voluntary recall of certain Valsartan products due to the presence of impurities that have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
The primary chemicals of concern were nitrosamines. These are a group of compounds that have been found to be potentially carcinogenic, meaning they have the potential to cause cancer.
The specific nitrosamines detected in Valsartan products were:
These nitrosamines are not intentionally added to the medication but are formed as byproducts during the manufacturing process. They can also be present in very low levels in certain foods and drinking water, but when found in higher concentrations in medications like Valsartan, they can pose a significant health risk.
What Types of Cancer Have Been Linked to Valsartan?
The presence of these chemicals in Valsartan has been linked to several types of cancer, including:
These cancers have been reported in individuals who have taken Valsartan for an extended period, often years. This makes it difficult to determine the exact causal relationship between the medication and the development of cancer. However, studies and evidence suggest that there is a significant association between exposure to these chemicals through Valsartan and an increased risk of developing these types of cancer.
What Legal Action is Being Taken?
In response to the discovery of these harmful chemicals in Valsartan, numerous individuals have filed lawsuits against manufacturers, distributors, and other parties involved in the production and distribution process.
These lawsuits allege that the companies were aware or should have been aware of the potential risks associated with their products and failed to adequately warn consumers. They also claim that the companies were negligent in their manufacturing processes, allowing for these impurities to be present in the medication.
These lawsuits aim to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred due to taking Valsartan.
What Can You Do If You Have Been Diagnosed with Cancer After Taking Valsartan?
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with cancer after taking Valsartan, it is essential to speak with an experienced lawyer who specializes in pharmaceutical litigationor product liability. They can review your case and help determine if you may have a viable compensation claim.
You should also consult your healthcare provider about alternative blood pressure medications that do not contain these harmful chemicals. It is essential to always prioritize your health and safety when taking any medication.
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