Pharmaceutical Injury Attorney: Tim Misny

For more than 40 years I’ve fought for my clients against the most powerful pharmaceutical companies who sold dangerous drugs, and I ‘ve won!!! I have the experience, legal team and financial resources to take on the largest corporations. If they’ve harmed my clients, I’ll Make Them Pay!®

As one of the top Cleveland drug injury lawyers, I also hold medical professionals accountable for improperly dispensing prescription drugs.  Medications are prescribed to help, not kill!

Pharmaceutical Lawsuits

When medication receives Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, patients and physicians alike assume the drug will be safe with no risk of serious drug injuries. We trust that medications have been properly researched and tested before being released and available to the public. When this does not occur, patients suffer serious side effects resulting in permanent injury or wrongful death.

In Cleveland, drug injuries happen more than you know, and taking legal action against the pharmaceutical manufacturers is absolutely necessary. Heartless and careless drug makers must be held accountable and compensate those who were seriously injured as a result of taking their drug. Secondly, the purpose of a lawsuit is to force pharmaceutical companies to change their business practices so that drug injuries do not occur! My law firm is pursuing damages for injuries and wrongful deaths caused by the following drugs:

Actos

Actos, also known by its generic name pioglitazone, is a medication that is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or does not produce enough insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels.

Actos belongs to a class of medications called thiazolidinediones, or TZDs. It works by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin, thereby improving the utilization of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. This helps to lower blood sugar levels and control diabetes.

Actos is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for type 2 diabetes, which may include lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, as well as other antidiabetic medications. It is usually taken orally in the form of tablets.

Dangers Associated with Actos

Pharmaceutical drugs are sometimes associated with dangerous side effects. Listed below are some of the potential risks associated with Actos:

Bladder Cancer: Long-term use of this prescription drug has been tied to bladder cancer. Particularly, if taken in high doses, or for more than one year, it has been associated with an increased risk of developing bladder cancer.

Heart Failure: Actos can be a dangerous drug, especially for individuals with a history of heart problems or those that are high risk. It’s important to monitor for signs and symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath, swelling in the legs or feet, rapid weight gain, or persistent cough.

Edema and Fluid Retention: This medicine may cause fluid retention in some individuals, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet.

Bone Fractures: Prolonged use of Actos, particularly in postmenopausal women, has been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, especially in the hands, upper arms, and feet. Regular bone health assessments may be recommended for individuals at risk.

Hypoglycemia: Actos, when used in combination with other anti-diabetic medications, may lower blood sugar levels excessively, resulting in hypoglycemia. Monitoring blood sugar levels and adjusting medication dosages as necessary is important to prevent low blood sugar episodes.

Hepatic Effects: Rare cases of liver problems, including hepatitis and elevated liver enzymes, have also been reported in some individuals taking Actos.

If you are taking Actos, and have suffered any of these dangerous side effects, you many have a drug injury claim. Call me for a free case review. I’ll meet with you any time or any place that is convenient for you.

Elmiron Eye Injury

Elmiron, also known by its generic name pentosan polysulfate sodium, is a medication used primarily for the treatment of a condition called interstitial cystitis (IC). Interstitial cystitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the bladder that causes pain, urinary urgency, frequency, and discomfort in the pelvic area.

Elmiron is a bladder protectant that works by forming a protective layer on the bladder wall, which may help to alleviate symptoms associated with interstitial cystitis. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the bladder lining, although the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood.

This medication is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for interstitial cystitis, which may also include dietary modifications, physical therapy, and other medications to manage symptoms.

Side Effects of Taking Elmiron

Retinal Toxicity: Long-term use has been associated with a rare but potentially serious side effect called retinal toxicity or pigmentary maculopathy. This condition can lead to vision changes, difficulty reading, and in some cases, irreversible vision loss.

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if any allergic symptoms occur.

Gastrointestinal Effects: Some patients may experience gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

Bleeding Disorders: There have been rare reports of bleeding disorders, including hemorrhagic cystitis, associated with Elmiron use.

Liver Effects: In rare cases, it has also been associated with liver-related adverse events, including elevated liver enzymes or liver function abnormalities. Regular liver function tests may be recommended in certain situations.

Ranitidine (Zantac)

Zantac, also known by its generic name ranitidine, is primarily used to reduce the production of stomach acid. It belongs to a class of drugs called H2 blockers. Zantac is commonly prescribed to manage several conditions, including:

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Often used to treat GERD, a chronic condition characterized by the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. It helps alleviate symptoms such as heartburn, acid regurgitation, and chest discomfort.

Peptic Ulcers: It can be used to treat and prevent peptic ulcers, which are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or small intestine. By reducing stomach acid production, Zantac helps promote healing of existing ulcers and prevents the formation of new ones.

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: This rare condition causes the stomach to produce excessive amounts of acid, leading to ulcers and other digestive problems. Ranitidine is typically prescribed to control acid production and manage the symptoms associated with Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

Erosive Esophagitis: In cases where the esophagus is inflamed or damaged due to excessive stomach acid, Zantac can be used to reduce acid production and aid in the healing of the esophageal lining.

Zantac is available as both prescription and over-the-counter formulations. This version is typically used for short-term relief of heartburn and acid indigestion.

Dangers Associated With Ranitidine

Potential Carcinogen: Ranitidine products were voluntarily withdrawn from the market due to concerns about the presence of a potential cancer-causing substance called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in some ranitidine formulations. The levels of NDMA were found to increase over time or under certain storage conditions.

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to ranitidine, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Gastrointestinal Effects: Ranitidine can occasionally cause gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

Liver Effects: Rarely, ranitidine has been associated with liver-related adverse events, including elevated liver enzymes or liver function abnormalities.

Yaz, Yasmin and Ocella

Yaz, Yasmin, and Ocella are brand names for combination oral contraceptives. These medications are primarily used for birth control purposes, as they contain a combination of hormones—estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (drospirenone)—that prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering the lining of the uterus.

In addition to their contraceptive role, Yaz, Yasmin, and Ocella may provide certain non-contraceptive benefits, including:

Menstrual cycle regulation: These medications can help regulate the menstrual cycle, leading to more predictable and lighter periods. They can also be prescribed to manage conditions such as irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding.

Acne treatment: Yaz, Yasmin, and Ocella are approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate acne in women. The hormones in these pills can reduce the production of sebum, an oily substance that contributes to acne development.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Yaz, in particular, has been approved for the treatment of PMDD, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by emotional and physical symptoms. The hormone drospirenone in Yaz may help alleviate PMDD symptoms by balancing hormonal fluctuations.

Side Effects of Taking Yaz, Yasmin and Ocella

Blood Clots: Combination oral contraceptives, including Yaz, Yasmin, and Ocella, have been associated with an increased risk of blood clot formation. Blood clots can potentially lead to serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), heart attack, or stroke. The risk may be higher in individuals with other risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or a personal or family history of blood clots.

Hypertension: These contraceptives can slightly increase blood pressure in some individuals. Regular blood pressure monitoring may be recommended, particularly in individuals with a history of high blood pressure or hypertension.

Cardiovascular Disorders: There is a small increased risk of certain cardiovascular disorders, such as heart attack or stroke, associated with the use of Yaz, Yasmin, and Ocella. The risk may be higher in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.

Liver Disorders: Rarely, these contraceptives have been associated with liver-related adverse event, such as liver function abnormalities or liver tumors.

Gallbladder Disorders: Some studies have suggested an association between the use of combination oral contraceptives and an increased risk of gallbladder disease.

Zofran

Zofran, also known by its generic name ondansetron, is a medication primarily used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting, particularly in individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called antiemetics, which help alleviate symptoms of nausea and vomiting by blocking certain serotonin receptors in the brain.

Zofran is commonly prescribed for the following reasons:

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV): Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, can often cause nausea and vomiting as side effects. Zofran is used to prevent and manage CINV, improving the quality of life for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

Radiation-induced nausea and vomiting: Zofran may be used in individuals receiving radiation therapy, as it can help prevent or alleviate symptoms of nausea and vomiting associated with this treatment.

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV): After certain surgical procedures, some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting. Zofran can be prescribed to prevent or treat PONV, aiding in the recovery process and reducing discomfort.

Side effects from taking Zofran

QT Prolongation: Zofran can potentially prolong the QT interval, which is an electrical measurement of the heart’s activity. Prolongation of the QT interval may increase the risk of a serious heart rhythm disorder called torsades de pointes.

Serotonin Syndrome: Zofran works by blocking certain serotonin receptors in the brain. In rare cases, excessive serotonin buildup can occur, leading to serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness, and in severe cases, seizures.

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Zofran, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Headache and Dizziness: Zofran can occasionally cause headache and dizziness in certain individuals. It’s important to be cautious when engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.

Gastrointestinal Effects: Zofran may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as constipation or diarrhea.

I Can Help You Recover Damages Caused by Defective Drugs

If you or a family member has suffered a serious injury or death as a result of taking these drugs, or other dangerous medical devices, you may be entitled to compensation from the drug manufacturer or medical facility.

Recover Damages For:

Medical bills: When drug companies put out drugs with these dangerous side effects, you should not have to pay for your own medical bills.

Lost wages: Any of these new health problems take time to recover. Unfortunately, that usually means missing work, and losing wages. I am here to fight with the pharmaceutical company to recover damages on your behalf.

Pain and suffering: Not only may the side effect be painful, but so is the medical treatment. This is pain you would not have endured, if drug manufacturers made sure their medicine was safe.

Families of wrongful death victims may also be compensated for funeral expenses and the death of their loved one. Unfortunately, your family suffers when you suffer. In the worst cases, such as wrongful death, your family deserves to be helped!

If you or a loved one was hurt or killed by a defective drug, I can help you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Call me today for a FREE case review – Absolutely no obligation or out of pocket fees!