Arava Attorneys

Overview of Arava and Liver Failure Lawsuits

On July 13, the FDA stated that Sanofi-Aventis would be required to make additions to the black warning box on the packaging of Arava. Arava (generically known as leflunomide) is a drug for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis that is contraindicated for pregnant women, or those who could become pregnant—facts that had already been stated on the drug's packaging. Now the FDA mandated that Sanofi-Aventis add warnings to the drug's packaging that indicate Arava side effects include severe liver damage.

The FDA based the decision on findings where it identified 49 severe liver injury cases, including 14 liver failure fatalities, linked to Arava, between August 2002 and May 2009. The most commonly reported Arava side effects reported included jaundice; however, some patients reported blood-clotting problems as well.

While drug labeling already indicated possible liver damage since 2003, the FDA determined that the warning was not prominent enough or detailed enough, which is why it mandated the new Arava side effects warnings black boxed on the drug's label. These include a note stating patients with pre-existing liver disease should not take Arava, and those who are taking Arava should have their liver enzymes monitored at a minimum of once a month for at least three months after beginning treatment.

The revised warning also states that if you are taking Arava and experience the following symptoms, you should contact a physician immediately:

• Light-colored stool
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine
• Yellow skin or eyes
• Itching

Anapol Schwartz is experienced in Arava lawsuits. If you believe you or a loved one are among those who have cases for Pennsylvania Arava lawsuits, we can evaluate your case.

Our firm, founded in 1977, has grown to more than 30 attorneys and practices in New Jersey, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Arava attorneys and law firms who have our experience are few. Furthermore, we tout a support staff of medical and nursing specialists, giving us the added upper hand of fully comprehending any technological or medical issues that arise in our cases.

As pharmaceutical litigation attorneys in Pennsylvania, Anapol Schwartz has had many substantial verdicts and settlements in wrongful death, medical malpractice and product liability cases. Our success is due to the thoroughness of our team and its complete review of clients' medical records, consultations with experts in applicable fields and close interaction with our clients themselves. When you call Anapol Schwartz, we will answer your questions and recommend a strong, well-founded course of action. If you or someone you know is seeking PA Arava side effects lawyers because of liver damage incurred by Arava, call us for a free evaluation at 1-866-735-2792.

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