As we have previously posted on our blog, after several studies suggested that the side effects of testosterone treatments might increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, blood clots and death, in January 2014 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it was investigating potential testosterone therapy risks. It is believed that the risks may be as much as double for a heart attack in young men with heart disease, as well as for men 65 years or older, even those with no history of heart trouble. The risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) increases as well, which can lead to life-threatening problems such as pulmonary embolisms. If the body develops a blood clot it can break off and travel throughout the body, which can be fatal.
Men who experience low testosterone levels (Low T) complain of fatigue, muscle and bone loss and deceased libido. Manufacturers of testosterone supplements use aggressive marketing tactics and fail to warn about risks. Most drugs have side effects and in many cases, the risks outweigh the benefits.
Due to the number of product liability lawsuits filed in the federal courts against testosterone makers, a multidistrict litigation (MDL) was formed. The purpose of an MDL is to consolidate pending complaints. An MDL helps streamline legal processes, reduce costs and minimize contradictory and/or duplicate rulings. The judge overseeing the MDL is U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly.
Lawsuits have been filed against Abbvie and Abbott Laboratories, makers of popular AndroGel, as well as the manufacturers of Androderm, Axirom, Bio-T-Gel, Delatestryl, Depo-Testosterone, Fortesta, Striant, Testim and Testopel.
Most people would go to great lengths to look younger and feel energetic today. Anti-aging products are part of a billion dollar industry. It is one thing to spend money on magic wrinkle creams to make you feel good about yourself, but when it comes to testosterone supplements, the price may be your life. Perhaps the FDA should issue a black box warning to protect consumers. We will continue update you with this case, as thousands of lawsuit are expected to go to trial or settle.
If you or a loved one has suffered adverse side effects after taking a testosterone supplement, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Feel free to contact one of our Gacovino Lake attorneys at 1-800-246-HURT (4878) for more information on your case.
