When your doctor prescribed Prilosec to treat your acid reflux, GERD, or ulcer, you may not have been well-informed of the potential side effects. This is because pharmaceutical reps are directed by their parent companies to minimize the potential dangers. Prilosec is a dangerous drug. Here’s what the drug company didn’t tell you about your prescription.
Prilosec Is Linked To Kidney Disease
Prilosec is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Its job is to inhibit the stomach from making too much acid. Although this may sound ideal, people who take Prilosec have a 20% – 50% higher chance of developing kidney disease than individuals who do not rely on Prilosec. Additionally, the study that revealed this shocking risk also explained that 70% of the people with the prescription for Prilosec don’t need it and that 25% of those taking the drug could stop taking it without experiencing any ill effect such as increased heartburn.
Prilosec appears to affect the kidneys by reducing how effective the kidneys are at filtering blood. The job of the kidneys is to help keep the blood clean. When your kidneys cannot properly filter out toxins, you may have chronic kidney disease.
Illegal Marketing
AstraZeneca, the maker of Prilosec, faced legal troubles in the mid-2000s for illegal marketing. The company allowed its patent on Prilosec to expire and then created Nexium to replace it. Nexium is almost chemically identical to Prilosec, but Nexium was initially marketed as something entirely new.
AstraZeneca also faced legal woes over Prilosec warning labels. They did not effectively warn patients of the potential side effects associated with using Prilosec. These patients suffered from low magnesium levels and fractured bones. They filed a class action lawsuit against AstraZeneca.
Signs Of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is extremely serious. It could eventually lead to dialysis or even the need for a kidney transplant. If you’re taking Prilosec and you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately and then make an appointment to speak with Goldwater Law Firm because you may benefit from a Prilosec lawsuit:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Passing small amounts of urine
- Swelling in the ankles
- Puffiness around the eyes
- Urine like odor of the breath
- Persistent fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- High blood pressure
- Muscle cramps, particularly in the legs
- Excessively dry and itchy skin
Kidney disease is progressive and gets worse over time. It’s imperative that you understand the symptoms and take appropriate action.
Did You Develop Kidney Disease While Taking Prilosec?
If you developed kidney disease while taking Prilosec, you may be eligible to file a Prilosec lawsuit and receive compensation for your injury. This is important because you may need dialysis, medication, or even surgery in order to treat kidney disease.
Goldwater Law Firm provides free case evaluations for individuals who need more information about filing a Prilosec lawsuit. We can help you understand your options. Call us today and learn how we can help you. Our experienced and dedicated drug injury lawyers are ready and waiting to hear from you.