As men age, they begin producing less of a hormone called testosterone. This decrease in this vital hormone can lead to decreased sexual drive, a drop in energy, weight gain, mood swings, and even hot flashes similar to those women experience when entering menopause. Like hormone therapy exists for women, so it exists for men. Men can utilize a gel which is spread on the shoulders and chest, called AndroGel. However, the gel, which is manufactured by AbbVie, has been linked to increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Several people have filed lawsuits. The Chicago Tribune reports on a settlement nearing for AbbVie.
The settlement would bring to an end thousands of lawsuits filed by plaintiffs who allege that the testosterone replacement therapy drug, AndroGel, increased risk of cardiac arrest, stroke, and blood clots.
AbbVie received FDA approval for AndroGel in 2000 for the treatment of hypogonadism, which is also known as testosterone deficiency that is caused by genetics, illness, or injury.
After seeing off-label use to combat the condition known as “low-T,” sales of AndroGel soared, hitting annual sales of $1.15 billion in 2012.
In 2014, the lawsuits that had been filed against AbbVie were consolidated in Chicago federal court, overseen by Judge Matthew Kennelly.
The settlement terms will remain private, but all litigants have agreed to the terms. AbbVie is the last manufacturer to come to a settlement agreement
Actavis, Eli Lilly, and Endo International, all makers of various testosterone replacement therapy drugs, have all settled litigation earlier this year.
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