The FDA recently ordered the recall of the popular weight loss drug Belviq, after studies showed those taking the medication may have a higher risk of certain types of cancer.
The agency first warned of the findings in January of 2020, then issued a formal recall of Belviq on February 13, 2020. It affects both Belviq and Belviq XR extended release formulas.
The recall was enacted based on a five-year study of approximately 12,000 patients, which found those taking Belviq were around 8% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer.
Belviq, which was first approved by the FDA in 2012, is manufactured by Japanese drugmaker Eisai. It works by releasing serotonin in the hypothalamus to promote feelings of fullness.
Unfortunately, however, the company gave no prior warnings about the cancer risks, putting thousands of patients at risk. Therefore, anyone affected may be entitled to substantial compensation.
The Timeline Leading to Belviq Lawsuits
Under many state and federal laws, people who’ve been injured by dangerous products without proper warning can file legal claims against the manufacturer. This applies as well for victims of injury from prescription drugs.
In recent years, lawyers have helped hundreds of thousands of patients injured by dangerous drugs file claims that recovered more than $10 billion. Now, they’re investigating lawsuits for those who’ve been diagnosed with cancer after taking Belviq.
It’s important to understand that these lawsuits aren’t filed against your doctor, but rather against the maker of the drug. Additionally, they won’t likely be filed as a class action, but as consolidated individual cases, which can offer greater compensation and control for victims.
In any case involving the tragic diagnosis of cancer, the damages related to future treatment, lost time and pain and suffering can be significant. However, at this time it is too early to assign a value to Belviq lawsuits.
Finally, every case is limited by a statute of limitations that governs how long you have after injury to file a claim before your rights expire. Therefore, it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to learn your legal options.
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with any type of cancer after taking the Belviq weight loss drug, it’s important to find out if your medication was a factor.
A qualified Belviq lawyer will fully investigate your case, reviewing medical records, pharmacy records and recent studies that your doctor may not normally discuss. However, there’s only a limited amount of time to file a claim.
DrugNews works only with attorneys and law firms that have successfully handled thousands of cancer lawsuits against the largest companies. And, we make it easy to speak directly with a lawyer or patient advocate today to learn more about your options.
Fortunately, it’s easy to get help and file a claim if you qualify, and you won’t pay anything unless you receive an award. Also, the right lawyer can handle most aspects of your case without you ever having to leave your home or attend court hearings.
For more information, or to learn about your options - call, chat or email us today.
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