Philadelphia Arava Liver Failure Lawyers

Arava Liver Failure Risks Prompt FDA Black Box Warning

In early July, the FDA announced that information regarding Arava side effects and the severe damage it can cause to the liver must be added to the black warning box posted on the drug's packaging. Used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, Arava is the brand name for a drug generically known as leflunomide. Other Arava side effects make it a contraindication for pregnant women, or those who could potentially become pregnant due to lack of use of reliable contraception.

The FDA’s decision to mandate the addition of new information to the list of Arava side effects on its packaging was due to a review by the FDA of cases between August 2001 and May 2009. The review indicated that Arava could cause severe damage to the liver based on findings that confirmed 49 severe liver injury cases, including 14 where liver failure was fatal. Arava liver damage warnings that are being added to the box address the following issues:

• You should not take leflunomide if you have pre-existing liver disease.
• If you have elevated liver enzymes, do not take leflunomide.
• You should be cautious about your use of Arava if you are taking other medicines that have liver-damaging side effects.
• Arava side effects are such that those taking it should have their liver enzymes monitored, at the minimum, monthly for at least three months after beginning Arava consumption and, at the minimum, quarterly thereafter.
• If your liver enzyme, alanine transaminase (ALT), is more than twice the uppermost limit of "normal" levels, you should stop taking Arava and begin a cholestryamine washout to remove the drug quickly from your system. Follow-up tests for your liver function should be conducted (at least) weekly until your ALT is within the "normal" range.

If you believe your, or a loved one's, liver failure or serious liver damage is due to taking Arava, Anapol Schwartz can help. Anapol Schwartz has a represented countless clients in dangerous or unsafe drug cases and has a long track record of successful pharmaceutical injury lawsuits.

We have trial lawyers with decades of trial experience in our Philadelphia law firm, including Arava attorneys who work with an experienced team of technical and medical experts. Anapol Schwartz employs seasoned PA Arava attorneys backed by support staff who have advanced degrees in medicine and nursing, so that we can thoroughly understand every facet in our cases and communicate that important information to the juries and judges who decide the outcome. If you or a loved one suffered liver failure or severe liver damage due to Arava use, contact us for a free evaluation of your Arava liver failure lawsuit by calling 1-866-735-2792.

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