The FDA is warning consumers that certain ulcer drugs such as Prilosec, Nexium, Prevacid and many others may cause hip, wrist and spine fractures. It said that it will revise both prescription and over the counter (OTC) labels for the drugs to warn consumers of the increased risks.
FDA Says Studies Show Increased Ulcer Injuries
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) said that it has reviewed several studies which linked ulcer drugs to an increased risk of hip fractures, wrist fractures and spine fractures. The drugs, known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), treat ulcers, acid reflux and other conditions and are sold under the prescription names:
*also available in over-the-counter versions and subject to the same warnings.
According to study results, the risk of fractures was highest for those patients who took higher doses of these drugs, took these drugs for one year or longer and for those over 50 years of age. The FDA said that it will revise labels to warn consumers that they are at a higher risk for fractured hips, fractured wrists and fractured spines.
Ulcer Drug Lawsuits
The new warnings will likely result in ulcer drug lawsuits against manufacturers as product liability attorneys say that these companies should have done their own studies and clinical trials to protect consumers by making sure their drugs were safe.
If you've been injured by a defective product, which includes pharmaceuticals, you may be entitled to compensation from the manufacturer in the form of lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering and more. Contact an experienced product liability lawyer to find out more so that you can decide whether filing a product liability lawsuit makes sense for you.