Our attorneys are examining possible legal actions for individuals who suffered from acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) as a result of using Aciphex (generic: rabeprazole), a medication for heartburn that inhibits proton pump (PPI). AIN is a condition where the kidneys fail to adequately filter waste and fluids due to inflammation.
Free Confidential Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one is injured, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit and our lawyers can help.
Table Of Contents
What’s the Problem?
Acute interstitial nephritis is a rare but important cause of kidney failure (end-stage renal disease or ESRD), and proton pump inhibitors are thought to be a leading cause of the condition. The first case [1] of AIN specifically linked to rabeprazole (the active ingredient in Aciphex) in the U.S. was reported in 2005. At least 4 cases [2] have been linked to the drug in Canada, as well as one in France [3] in which an 84-year-old woman underwent a renal biopsy because of rapidly progressive renal failure. Rabeprazole-induced AIN was diagnosed, and the study’s authors cautioned that the condition may complicate the course of any proton pump inhibitor treatment. Clinician’s awareness of nephritis is essential for early diagnosis and prompt recovery, according to the researchers.
FDA Warning on Aciphex
In December 2014, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) updated Aciphex labels [4] to include a warning about acute interstitial nephritis. The agency said that nephritis is a hypersensitivity reaction that can occur at any time during treatment with Aciphex.
What is AIN?
Acute interstitial nephritis is characterized by the presence of an inflammatory cell infiltrate in the interstitium of the kidney. Untreated AIN can lead to kidney failure, and it is estimated that up to 15% of hospitalizations for acute renal failure may be due to the condition.
Nephritis Symptoms
- Blood in the urine
- Fever
- Increased or decreased urine output
- Mental status changes (drowsiness, confusion, coma)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Swelling of the body
- Weight gain
Treatment
The mainstay of treatment for acute interstitial nephritis is supportive therapy. After a diagnosis of AIN has been confirmed, potentially offending medications should be discontinued and underlying infections treated. If Aciphex is determined to be the likely cause of your nephritis, you may want to consider discontinuing treatment in favor of a heartburn drug with less severe side effects. However, you should never quit taking a medication without consulting your physician first.
FAQs:
What Is Aciphex?
Aciphex is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach ulcers, and other conditions caused by excess stomach acid.
What Is Acute Interstitial Nephritis?
Acute interstitial nephritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the kidneys’ interstitial tissue, which can lead to impaired kidney function.
What Is the Connection Between Aciphex and Acute Interstitial Nephritis?
The connection between Aciphex and acute interstitial nephritis is that Aciphex can cause this condition as a side effect, potentially leading to serious kidney damage and impaired kidney function.
What Are the Symptoms of Acute Interstitial Nephritis?
The symptoms of acute interstitial nephritis include fever, rash, blood in the urine, fatigue, and decreased urine output. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
What Should I Do if I Suspect Aciphex Has Caused Acute Interstitial Nephritis?
If you suspect Aciphex has caused acute interstitial nephritis, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. Additionally, consulting with a lawyer who specializes in drug injury cases can help you understand your legal options.
Are There Any Legal Actions Against the Manufacturers of Aciphex?
Yes, there have been lawsuits filed against the manufacturers of Aciphex, alleging that the drug caused acute interstitial nephritis and that the manufacturers failed to adequately warn users of this risk.
What Kind of Compensation Might Be Available in an Aciphex Acute Interstitial Nephritis Lawsuit?
The kind of compensation that might be available in an Aciphex acute interstitial nephritis may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
What Evidence Is Needed to Support an Aciphex Acute Interstitial Nephritis Lawsuit?
Evidence needed to support an Aciphex acute interstitial nephritis lawsuit includes medical records documenting your diagnosis and treatment, proof of Aciphex usage, and expert testimony linking your condition to the use of Aciphex. A qualified attorney can help you gather and present this evidence effectively.
Do I Have an Aciphex Acute Interstitial Nephritis Lawsuit?
The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Aciphex lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new nephritis cases in all 50 states.
Free Confidential Case Evaluation: Again, if you were diagnosed with acute interstitial nephritis after taking Aciphex, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.
References:
- https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
- https://www.pulsus.com/journals.html
- https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
- http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/Safety-RelatedDrugLabelingChanges/ucm307179.htm