Prilosec & Nexium Lawsuit Lawyer

Prilosec and Nexium are among the most popular medicines for acid reflux and recurring heartburn. Millions of Americans take these drugs, and for years we were told that they’re safe. But both Prilosec and Nexium can actually cause severe damage to the kidneys or even kidney failure and death. Neither doctors nor patients were warned of these risks by AstraZeneca, the maker the drugs.

If you or a loved one experienced kidney problems, bone fractures, or other serious medical conditions while taking Prilosec or Nexium, you need to speak to an attorney. AstraZeneca is liable for the side effects of these drugs and you could recover the costs of your treatment and ongoing care.

John Foy & Associates is one of the most experienced medical injury law firms in the nation. Call us at 404-400-4000 and get a free consultation today.

What are Prilosec and Nexium and how do they work?

Nexium and Prilosec are part of a class of drugs known as “proton pump inhibitors” or PPIs. PPIs reduce the amount of acid in the stomach. They do this by chemically blocking proton pumps—structures in certain cells that secrete hydrogen to create stomach acid. By shutting down these pumps, Prilosec can bring the stomach from a pH of 1 (highly acidic) to a pH of 5 (barely acidic at all). All PPIs work this way.

There is no doubt that PPIs are effective. They can:

Quickly stop heartburn or GERD/acid reflux
Sooth esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus from too much acid) or ulcers
Reduce the chance of recurring esophagitis or other long-term effects of acid reflux

Because PPIs provide so much relief, they’ve become a very popular drug. Over 15 million Americans use PPIs, with Prilosec and Nexium among the most common. But many people end up taking these drugs too long, even long after the drug is no longer needed. This is often when problems start to crop up.

What problems can Prilosec and Nexium cause?

These drugs have many potential side effects. One of the most serious is one that patients were not warned about: the risk of serious kidney damage. PPI’s can cause acute kidney injury and inflammation of the kidneys, and long term use of Prilosec or Nexium may cause chronic kidney disease.

Chronic kidney disease or CKD is a permanent, life threatening condition where the kidneys slowly stop working. Your kidneys are responsible for removing waste products from the body, including excess water. In CKD, they lose their ability to function over the course of several months, often with no symptoms until the kidneys have almost completely failed. There is no way to reverse CKD. It requires either switching to dialysis (using a machine to filter the blood) or getting a kidney transplant. Without these interventions CKD leads to renal failure and death.

The connection between Prilosec/Nexium and CKD is well established. One study of over 10,000 patients found that those using PPIs had a 20% to 50% higher risk of chronic kidney disease. Additional test groups showed the same results. And patients taking PPIs have nearly twice the risk of dying prematurely.

Prilosec and Nexium also affect your bone health and can lead to an increase in fractures of the hip, wrists, and other fragile areas.

Who is at risk from Prilosec and Nexium?

Anyone, even an otherwise healthy person, faces potential kidney complications from these drugs. Long term use is associated with greater risk. Doctors are now starting to limit the length of time a patient can be on Nexium, but there are many patients who have used it for years. This is the group most likely to develop CKD.

Those who use it in higher doses, or twice a day rather than once a day, are at significantly higher risk of kidney problems.

The risk of bone fractures is greatest for patients who have used Prilosec or Nexium a year or more, and those over the age of 50.

What is the difference between Prilosec and Nexium?

The two drugs are nearly identical. Nexium is the newer drug, but it doesn’t offer any substantial advantages over Prilosec. Both have essentially the same active ingredient.

AstraZeneca created Nexium purely to get more profit out of Prilosec. Prilosec’s patent was about to expire, which would allow other companies to make cheaper versions of it and eat into AstraZeneca’s profits. To prevent this AstraZeneca decided to come up with a “new” drug that worked better—one that they had a fresh patent on. Nexium was created by taking the same molecule that’s in Prilosec and splitting it in half.

The two drugs are equally effective. Some studies suggest that Nexium is slightly better at soothing esophagitis, but other studies don’t. Nonetheless, AstraZeneca charges up to four times as much for Nexium than for Prilosec.

Nexium, Prilosec and the generic omeprazole all carry the same risks for bone fracture and kidney damage.

Who is liable for suffering caused by Prilosec/Nexium?

AstraZeneca is directly responsible for serious health conditions caused by these drugs. Under the law, they knew or should have known the full side effects of their product before marketing it. They did not make doctors aware of the risk of chronic kidney disease and renal failure, and as a result countless patients have been put at risk.

What’s worse, the use of Prilosec is often unnecessary. It’s given to many people who simply have occasional heartburn, rather than a serious ongoing condition. It appears that up to 70% of prescriptions may have been given inappropriately, and at least 25% of Prilosec users could stop taking it and with no risk of relapse. There are also safer heartburn drugs, called H2 blockers, that simply don’t cause CKD.

If you or someone you love suffered chronic kidney disease, a kidney injury, broken bones or any other serious problem while taking Prilosec or Nexium, we can help. The attorneys of John Foy & Associates are experienced at handling medical cases like yours. We may be able to get you a financial recovery that could pay for lost work time, existing medical bills, and long term treatment. We offer a FREE consultation and we charge nothing unless we get you a financial recovery. Call 404-400-4000 and get your free consultation today.

Prilosec & Nexium Lawsuit News & Information

July 26, 2017 - Counterclaims in PPI Study Funded by Big Pharma:

For millions of Americans, heartburn is a discomfort that they have learned to live with. Many reach for over-the-counter medications like Prilosec and Nexium for relief. Yet, when a recent study noted a correlation between these medications and dementia, the public health alarm bells rang out. However, Forbes reports that a new study might indicate no correlation between these medications and the degenerative condition.

The original study, which was published in JAMA Neurology last year, showed a strong correlation between the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are used by millions of Americans to treat a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers, and dementia. The JAMA study included more than 70,000 participants aged 75 or older, all of whom were patients from a German statutory health insurer. When compared to patients who did not receive PPI medication, those who did receive PPI medication showed a higher incidence of dementia.

The latest study, which was published in the Gastroenterology, was an analysis from a larger study. The participants, 14,000 in total, were in a study titled the Nurses Health Study II. Participants completed cognitive function tests. Decreased scores on these tests would indicate the early stages of dementia. Women who tested to have decreased cognitive function had been taking PPIs for between 9 and 14 years, which qualified as “long term use.” However, the study did not conclude that there was a correlation between PPI use and decreased cognitive function.

In the first study, it is important to note that “correlation does not equal causation.” In the second study, it is of equally important to note that its authors have clear ties to the pharmaceutical companies that make PPIs.

While there may be a hint towards a problem linking PPIs and dementia, there is no cause for alarmist headlines. There is, however, sufficient cause for further study.

Have you been injured by taking a prescription or over-the-counter PPI? Contact the law offices of John Foy & Associates. Our experienced attorneys will fight to get you the compensation that you deserve. Contact us today.

July 5, 2017 - Prilosec Study Shows Massive Increase in Early Deaths:

A new study done by the Washington University School of Medicine gives further evidence about the dangers of proton pump inhibitor drugs like Prilosec. News4Jax.com reported on the story.

While the study didn’t prove a definitive link, it is yet another study that shows the dangers of these drugs. The scientists wanted to know if the side effects people reported while on PPIs lead to earlier deaths. They compared people on PPIs with people who took no drugs and with people who took other types of heartburn medication.

The results were pretty clear. Compared to both groups, people on PPIs had a 25% increased chance of early death from their side effects. There was evidence that PPIs can actually change the DNA of the body over time and cause serious issues as a result. The study recommended that PPIs should only be used in emergencies and other forms of heartburn medication should be used for long-term care.

We believe that one day proton pump inhibitor drugs will be seen as dangerous. Right now, millions of people are taking this type of medication. Once studies prove the dangers of these drugs, there are sure to be massive class action lawsuits against the makers of Prilosec and other PPI drugs.

If you’ve experienced negative health effects from Prilosec or another PPI, speak with our attorneys. We’re ready to work with you to file a lawsuit. Contact us today for a free consultation.

November 24, 2016 - PPIs Found to Increase Stroke Risk:

Heartburn is a condition that millions of Americans suffer from on a daily basis. To get relief, they often turn to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Prilosec. New studies indicate these medications may cause an increase in stroke risk.

At an American Heart Association meeting last week, Danish researchers assessed the risk of stroke in patients who were taking medications like Prilosec and Nexium.

The results were an alarming 21% increase in strokes. The greater the dose used, the higher the risk became. The researchers also found that H2 blockers like Pepsid and Zantac did not have an elevated risk.

These studies come after earlier research revealed that PPI inhibitors have an increased risk of heart attack as well.

It must be clear that these studies are observational studies only. This makes it impossible to distinguish whether the proton pump inhibitor increases risk or if people who experience severe heartburn or ulcers are just at higher risk over time.

H2 antagonists are relatively weak when compared to PPI drugs. Patients who can use them and receive good results are likely not the same patients who need PPIs to gain relief. If you have just regular, occasional heartburn, you might benefit from lifestyle changes such as weight loss, avoiding eating before bedtime, quitting smoking, and eating smaller meals. You might find that your need for PPI inhibitors diminishes or you might find that you are able to obtain relief with H2 antagonists.

If you believe that you have had a stroke or a cardiac event related to taking a PPIs such as Prilosec or Nexium, you may be entitled to compensation. Let the “Strong Arm” attorneys at the law offices of John Foy & Associates fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today.

May 18, 2016 - Nexium and Similar Meds May Accelerate Blood Vessel Aging:

Millions of people suffer from heartburn. To alleviate their condition, many turn to popular over-the-counter medications like Nexium. However, a recent study shows that it is possible that medications like Nexium may cause accelerated aging of blood vessel cells.

Blood vessel cells exposed to the antacid Nexium (esomeprazole) aged faster, which might hinder the tasks these cells perform to prevent heart attack and stroke.

This might offer an explanation as to why people using protein pump inhibitor medications like Nexium and Prilosec show increased risk of heart disease in some studies.

The senior author of the study, John Cooke, stated: “Our finding that the lining of blood vessels is impaired by proton pump inhibitors is a unifying mechanism for the reports that PPI users are at increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and renal failure.”

AstraZeneca, the manufacturer of Nexium, released a statement taking note that the study was conducted in a laboratory setting. The study did not include humans in a controlled clinical trial. They also noted that PPIs were safe when used in accordance with the label.

However, many people do not take PPIs in accordance with the dosing guidelines. In the case of Nexium, there is a limit to a four-week course of treatment spread out over three times a year.

People use these medications outside the guidelines for long-term treatment of heartburn.

In the study, Cooke and his colleagues cultured the cells that line the walls of blood vessels. These cultures were then exposed to daily doses of Nexium in a similar dose to what a patient would receive. The cells produce substances that relax the blood vessel and create a “Teflon” like coating that prevents plaque or blood clots from sticking.

Researchers found that long-term PPI exposure interrupted the production of the acid used to clear waste products from the bloodstream. Once exposed to PPIs these cells did not produce enough acid to clear the waste.

The bottom line is that if you are taking a PPI, you should check with your doctor to ensure that you really need it. Lifestyle adjustments to diet and exercise can help to reduce heartburn symptoms.

If you have suffered complications or injury you believe may be related to taking a PPI drug like Nexium or Prilosec, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the law offices of John Foy & Associates. Our “Strong Arm” attorneys will assist you. Contact us today.

April 16, 2016 - Prilosec and Nexium Linked to Dementia:

A recent report from a team of German researchers states that a popular class of medications that are used to treat heartburn, ulcers, and acid reflux may increase dementia in some elderly patients.

The report, published on February 15 of this year in the journal JAMA Neurology studied the class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, include such prescription drugs as Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid, which provide a way for patients to lower the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

The German research team says that patients in the study who were 75 or older and who regularly take the medications had a 44 percent increased risk of developing dementia compared to patients in the same age group who did not take those medications.

The author of the report, Britta Haenisch, from the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Bonn said in a statement; “To evaluate cause-and-effect relationships between long-term PPI use and possible effects on cognition in the elderly, randomized, prospective clinical trials are needed.”

Haenisch also said that in the meantime, “Clinicians should follow guidelines for PPI prescription, to avoid overprescribing PPIs and inappropriate use.”

The makers of these popular pharmaceuticals are directly responsible for serious health conditions caused by these drugs and should have known about all potential side effects of the drugs before marketing them. They should also have informed doctors so that they could inform their patients of the potential health risks such as chronic kidney disease, renal failure or other health problems.

If you or someone you love has suffered c health issues such as broken bones, kidney disease or other serious problem while taking Prilosec or Nexium, give the law offices of John Foy & Associates a call today.

Our law firm has some of the most experienced attorneys in the country and we can help in medical cases involving Prilosec and Nexium just like yours. You may be entitled to financial compensation for any medical bills, lost wages for having been off the job or ongoing medical costs. Call us to schedule a FREE consultation.

April 16, 2016 - Heartburn Drugs Tied to Kidney Damage:

In a recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology has indicated that long term usage of drugs to treat acid reflux, heartburn and ulcers may also lead to an increased risk of potential damage to the kidneys.

The study analyzed information obtained from the VA databases and identified 170,000 new users of PPIs, like Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid, and then compared those to some 20,000 new users of histamine H2 receptor blockers, an alternative class of drugs that are used to suppress stomach acid.

The five-year study indicated that 15 percent of people using PPIs were diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, as opposed to 11 percent of those on the H2 receptor blockers. Factors such as age, additional health issues were taken into consideration and those taking the PPI’s had a 28 percent increased risk of developing kidney disease after taking the drugs. This comes after a similar study done by Johns Hopkins University that was published earlier this year in JAMA Internal Medicine.

While neither study proves a cause and effect relationship, the result indicates that therapies which make use of PPI’s should only be undertaken when medically necessary, and should only be taken for the minimum amount of time according to the author of the report, Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly of the Clinical Epidemiology Center at the VA Saint Louis Health Care System.

Dr. Kenneth R. DeVault, said in an interview with CBS News, that while the risk for kidney damage is still relatively low. The study also indicated that some gastroenterologists have shown reluctance in prescribing PPI’s because of problems which include bone fractures and the potential for infections. Dr. DeVault also warns patients that before discontinuing the drug they need to consult with their doctor.

Many people in the United States suffer from gastrointestinal issues such as acid reflux, indigestion, and ulcers. The drugs Prilosec and Nexium have been a popular choice by physicians to help their patients address these issues. As with many drugs, however, there are potential side effects after long-term use. Some of these can be even greater than the original health issues were before taking these drugs.

If you or a loved one has suffered chronic kidney disease, a kidney injury, broken bones or any other serious problem while taking Prilosec or Nexium, call the attorneys at John Foy & Associates. We are experienced at handling medical cases like your and we want to help. You may be eligible for financial compensation that could help in paying your medical bills, pay you lost while being off the job, as well as long-term and ongoing medical treatment. We charge you no money unless we get you a financial recovery. Contact us today at 104-620-34894 to schedule a free consultation about your case.