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Nexium Lawsuit
Kidney & Renal Failure Lawyer

The heartburn medication Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium) has recently been linked to an increased risk for the development of kidney failure, nephritis, bone fractures, stomach cancer, and other serious side effects.
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If you or a loved one experienced a serious injury from Nexium, you should contact a Nexium attorney immediately.

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Nexium Risk Statistics

  • 45% increased risk of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
  • 8x higher stomach cancer risk after 3 years.
  • 16-21% increased heart attack risk.
  • 31% higher risk of hepatic encephalopathy.
  • $87.2B annual CKD treatment costs in the U.S.

If you’ve been affected, you may be eligible for compensation.

What is Nexium?

Manufactured by AstraZeneca, Nexium is a popular heartburn medication that belongs to a class of prescription and over-the-counter drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) which are used for the short-term treatment of acid reflux disease, which can cause heartburn.

PPIs work to reduce stomach acid, which can treat heartburn and decrease the occurrence of ulcers.

Nexium is also commonly used to reduce ulcers caused by the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Injuries & Side Effects

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Nexium have been linked to a range of serious side effects. These can be categorized into immediate risks, short-term complications, and long-term effects.

Immediate Risks

  • Acute Interstitial Nephritis: Inflammation of the kidneys that can occur suddenly and requires immediate medical attention.
  • Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; and skin reactions such as hives or rash.
  • Acute Kidney Injury: Sudden decrease in kidney function that can lead to serious health complications if not addressed promptly.

Short-Term Complications

man having a hard time standing up

  • Low Magnesium Levels (Hypomagnesemia): Can lead to muscle cramps, fatigue, and irregular heart rhythms.
  • Gastric Tumors: Long-term PPI use has been associated with an increased risk of gastric tumors.
  • Clostridium Difficile-Associated Diarrhea: Increased risk of gut infections, particularly in hospitalized patients.
  • Community-Acquired Pneumonia: PPI users have a higher risk of developing pneumonia.
  • Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Some studies suggest a link between PPI use and erectile dysfunction.

Long-Term Effects

  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Long-term use of Nexium has been linked to a 45% increased risk of CKD, as reported in a 2016 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
  • Kidney Failure: Prolonged use can lead to irreversible kidney damage and failure.
  • Cardiovascular Diseases: Increased risk of heart attack and ischemic stroke due to potential endothelial dysfunction caused by PPIs.
  • Bone Fractures: Long-term use is associated with an increased risk of fractures in the hip, wrist, and spine due to decreased bone density.
  • Stomach Cancer: There is evidence suggesting that long-term PPI use may increase therisk of developing stomach cancer.

Summary of Side Effects

Other less severe side effects associated with over-the-counter versions of esomeprazole include:

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Nauseawoman in a headache
  • Decreased appetite
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Abdominal pain
  • Chest pain
  • Dark urine
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Fever

Key Research Linking Nexium and Health Risks

This section highlights significant scientific studies investigating the risks associated with Nexium and other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These findings shed light on the potential health impacts of long-term PPI use.

Cardiovascular Risks

Date Study Title/Source Key Findings and Patient Impacts
2015 PLOS ONE Found a 16-21% increased risk of heart attack among PPI users compared to non-users [1].
May 12, 2016 Circulation Research Nexium linked to premature aging of blood vessels, increasing risks of heart attack and stroke [2].
August 19, 2016 International Journal of Cardiology Nexium users were 6 times more likely to suffer from anemia and a worsening metabolic profile. Prolonged PPI use was linked to worsened red blood count indexes, lower weight, and reduced use of cardioprotective medications [3].
March 23, 2017 PLOS ONE Associated PPIs with increased risks of heart failure and death in coronary artery disease patients [4].

Kidney-Related Risks

Date Study Title/Source Key Findings and Patient Impacts
April 14, 2016 JAMA Internal Medicine Linked long-term PPI use to a 45% increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) [5].
2016 Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study Over-the-counter PPI users had a 45% increased risk of developing CKD compared to non-users [6].
April 14, 2016 Journal of the American Society of Nephrology Found a 28% increased risk of CKD for PPI users compared to H2 blockers like Zantac [7].

Liver and Gastrointestinal Risks

Date Study Title/Source Key Findings and Patient Impacts
September 1, 2016 Journal Hepatology Reported a 31% cumulative risk for hepatic encephalopathy and increased fluid buildup in PPI users with liver disease.
January 6, 2017 British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology Found higher rates of C. difficile and Campylobacter infections in PPI users among a cohort of 565,000 adults.
2023 Journal Gastroenterology Long-term PPI use may double the risk of stomach cancer; usage for 3+ years increases risk 8-fold [8].

Respiratory and Immune System Risks

Date Study Title/Source Key Findings and Patient Impacts
April 5, 2017 Journal of the American Geriatrics Society Found an 89% increased risk of pneumonia in dementia patients using PPIs.

Muscle-Related Risks

Date Study Title/Source Key Findings and Patient Impacts
September 26, 2016 Medicine A single intravenous dose of Nexium caused a man to develop rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle condition [9].

Brain and Neurological Risks

Date Study Title/Source Key Findings and Patient Impacts
September 1, 2016 Journal Hepatology PPIs like Nexium linked to increased risk of hepatic encephalopathy and fluid buildup in the abdomen.

The research highlights critical risks linked to Nexium and other PPIs, including:

  • Chronic Kidney Disease: Increased risk due to prolonged use.
  • Cardiovascular Damage: Elevated risks of heart-related conditions.
  • Higher Mortality: PPI users face a notably higher death rate.
  • Infection Susceptibility: Greater vulnerability to infections like pneumonia, especially in high-risk groups.

These studies emphasize the importance of informed prescribing and patient education. Long-term Nexium users should consult healthcare providers to assess the necessity of their treatment and explore safer alternatives if needed.

The ongoing research continues to shape our understanding of the risks and responsibilities associated with PPIs.

The Hidden Health Risks of Nexium: Linking Acid Reflux Relief to Serious Diseases

Nexium, widely prescribed for managing acid reflux and related conditions, has come under scrutiny for its potential to cause serious health complications.

While offering relief from heartburn, its prolonged use has been associated with a range of diseases, from kidney damage to bone fractures.

In the following section, we break down the key health risks linked to Nexium and explore how its mechanism of action may lead to these complications.

1. Nexium and Kidney Damage: Understanding the Risks

Nexium’s ability to reduce stomach acid production effectively manages heartburn and prevents esophageal damage. However, this exact mechanism can have unintended consequences on kidney health by decreasing the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients like magnesium.

Magnesium is vital for kidney function, and its deficiency can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and other kidney-related complications.

How Nexium Causes Kidney Damage

Nexium works by shutting down some of the stomach’s acid-producing pumps while allowing others to function. This helps alleviate heartburn but also impairs magnesium absorption over time. Magnesium deficiency compromises kidney health, often causing irreversible damage before symptoms are noticed.

  • Symptom Onset: Most patients use Nexium for at least three months before experiencing symptoms, but kidney damage may already be underway.
  • Long-Term Impact: Without adequate magnesium, kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance, leading to CKD and other complications.

Symptoms of Kidney Damage

Recognizing symptoms early can prevent further complications. Common signs include:

  • Changes in Urination: Frequency, color, or amount may change.
  • Swelling: Noticeable in ankles, legs, feet, and hands.
  • General Discomfort: Fatigue, shortness of breath, and feeling cold.
  • Digestive and Neurological Issues: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and trouble concentrating.
  • Unusual Tastes and Pains: Metallic taste in the mouth, ammonia breath, and leg or flank pain.

Diagnosing Kidney Disease

Early diagnosis is critical for managing kidney disease effectively. The process includes:

  1. Medical History Review: Doctors will discuss family and personal health history, including medication use and pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure.
  2. Physical Examination: Includes checks for heart and blood vessel issues and a neurological evaluation.
  3. Diagnostic Tests:
    • Blood Tests: Evaluate creatinine and urea levels, key indicators of kidney function.
    • Urine Tests: Identify abnormalities signaling kidney failure and underlying causes.
    • Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or similar imaging to assess kidney structure and size.
    • Kidney Biopsy: Tissue samples may be tested to determine the exact cause of kidney issues.

Treatment Options for Kidney Disease

Treatment depends on the stage and severity of kidney damage. Common interventions include:

  • Blood Pressure Medications: Maintain kidney function by lowering high blood pressure.
  • Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs: Statins help reduce bad cholesterol, mitigating risks of heart disease.
  • Anemia Management: Supplements like erythropoietin encourage red blood cell production to relieve fatigue.
  • Diuretics: Relieve swelling and help regulate fluid levels.
  • Bone Health Protection: Calcium, vitamin D, and phosphate binders reduce fracture risks and vascular damage.
  • Dietary Adjustments: Lower protein intake to reduce kidney workload and manage waste products in the blood.

Cost of Treating Kidney Disease

The financial burden of kidney disease treatment is substantial in the U.S.:

  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Medicare spent over $87.2 billion in 2019 for CKD treatment.
  • End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): An additional $37.3 billion was allocated for ESRD care.

People with Nexium kidney disease lawsuits often experience high levels of bad cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease. Understanding these costs underscores the importance of early detection and careful management of kidney health in long-term Nexium users.

2. Nexium and Bone Fracture Risks: A Closer Look

Nexium has been strongly linked to an increased risk of bone fractures, particularly with long-term use. This connection has prompted significant regulatory action and patient concerns about the medication’s impact on bone health.

FDA Warning on Bone Fractures

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in May 2010 highlighting the risks associated with prolonged Nexium use and bone fractures.

The FDA mandated an enhanced warning label on Nexium and other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), focusing on:

  • Fracture Types: Hip, wrist, and spine fractures were specifically identified as associated with prolonged PPI use.
  • Dose-Dependence: The greatest risk was observed in patients using high doses of Nexium for a year or more.

The FDA’s decision came after reviewing several studies that demonstrated a clear link between PPI use and increased fracture risks, raising awareness about the potential long-term effects of these medications on bone health.

How Nexium Contributes to Bone Weakness

Nexium’s mechanism of reducing stomach acid affects the body’s ability to absorb calcium and other essential minerals required for bone strength.

Over time, this leads to:

  • Reduced Bone Density: Chronic use depletes mineral levels necessary for maintaining strong bones.
  • Increased Risk of Osteoporosis: Long-term use may accelerate bone thinning, significantly raising the likelihood of fractures.

The warning on the FDA website states:

“Be aware that an increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine has been reported in some studies of patients using proton pump inhibitors. The greatest increased risk for these fractures was seen in patients who receive high doses of these medications or use them longer (a year or more).”

Protecting Bone Health

Patients on long-term Nexium therapy should consider these strategies to mitigate bone health risks:

  • Supplementation: Calcium and vitamin D supplements can help offset deficiencies caused by Nexium.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Weight-bearing exercises and a balanced diet rich in bone-strengthening nutrients can improve overall bone health.
  • Medical Monitoring: Regular bone density tests and discussions with healthcare providers can ensure early detection of bone health issues.

The FDA’s enhanced warning on Nexium underscores the importance of informed decision-making.

Patients and healthcare providers should weigh the benefits of Nexium against its potential risks to bone health, particularly for those requiring long-term therapy. Proactive steps like monitoring and supplementation can help mitigate these risks and protect overall well-being.

3. Interstitial Nephritis: A Silent Risk

In December 2014, the FDA announced that new warnings would be added to labeling PPIs like Prilosec and Nexium regarding an increased risk for acute interstitial nephritis [10].

Interstitial nephritis is a kidney disorder that causes swelling between the kidney tubules, leading to a range of symptoms and potentially severe complications.

What is Interstitial Nephritis?

The kidneys are vital in filtering blood and waste, reabsorbing water and organic compounds, and excreting unnecessary substances through urine.

Interstitial nephritis disrupts this process due to excessive swelling in the spaces between kidney tubules, which may be:

  • Temporary (Acute): Symptoms appear suddenly and may resolve with treatment.
  • Long-lasting (Chronic): The condition worsens over time, potentially leading to permanent kidney damage.

Symptoms of Interstitial Nephritis

Patients with interstitial nephritis may experience a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe:

  • Blood in the urine
  • Fever
  • Increased or decreased urine output
  • Drowsiness, confusion, or coma
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Rash
  • Swelling in any part of the body
  • Stomach ulcers
  • Weight gain due to fluid retention

“Acute interstitial nephritis has been observed in patients taking PPIs including Nexium and Prilosec,”  FDA said. “Acute interstitial nephritis may occur at any point during PPI therapy and is generally attributed to idiopathic hypersensitivity reaction. Discontinue Nexium if acute interstitial nephritis develops.”

Treating Interstitial Nephritis

Effective treatment depends on the cause of the condition. If Nexium is determined to be a contributing factor, healthcare providers may recommend transitioning to an alternative medication with fewer kidney-related side effects.

Treatment approaches include:

  • Dietary Adjustments:
    • Limit salt and fluid intake to reduce swelling and manage blood pressure.
    • Restrict protein consumption to decrease the workload on the kidneys and minimize waste buildup in the blood.
  • Medications:
    • Corticosteroids or stronger anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to reduce swelling.
    • If anemia, high cholesterol, or swelling are present, additional medications may be added to the treatment plan.

The link between Nexium and interstitial nephritis underscores the need for caution when using proton pump inhibitors over extended periods.

Proactive communication with healthcare providers and ongoing monitoring is essential for maintaining kidney health while managing conditions like heartburn and GERD.

4. GERD and Nexium: Relief or Risk?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that affects the ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

How GERD Develops

During normal digestion, the LES opens to allow food into the stomach and then closes to prevent stomach acid and food from moving backward.

GERD develops when:

  • The LES becomes weak or relaxes when it shouldn’t.
  • Stomach acid and contents flow back into the esophagus, irritating its lining.

This malfunction can lead to chronic symptoms and complications if not managed properly.

Common Symptoms of GERD

  • Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating, that may worsen when lying down or bending over.
  • Regurgitation: The sensation of acid or food backing up into the throat or mouth, often leaving a sour or bitter taste.
  • Chest Pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest that can sometimes mimic a heart attack.
  • Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): A feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or esophagus.
  • Chronic Cough: Persistent coughing that is often worse at night or after meals.
  • Hoarseness or Sore Throat: Irritation caused by acid exposure to the vocal cords and throat.
  • Bad Breath: Foul-smelling breath due to regurgitated stomach contents.

Risk Factors for GERD

GERD affects millions of people across all age groups. Some key risk factors include:

  • Lifestyle Factors:
    • Overeating or lying down soon after eating.
    • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Health Conditions:
    • Pregnancy, due to increased abdominal pressure.
    • Hiatal hernia, a condition where the upper part of the stomach moves into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm.
  • Age-Related Factors:
    • Many individuals over age 50 have a small hiatal hernia, which may increase reflux risk.

In infants and children, GERD is often linked to vomiting and breathing problems. Recent studies suggest GERD in younger populations may be more common than previously thought.

Complications of GERD

If left untreated, GERD can lead to:

  • Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus.
  • Barrett’s Esophagus: A precancerous condition due to chronic acid exposure.
  • Respiratory Issues: Chronic coughing or asthma-like symptoms caused by acid aspiration.

GERD is a widespread condition that can significantly impact quality of life if not managed effectively. Understanding the mechanisms behind GERD and identifying risk factors are crucial for prevention and treatment.

Lifestyle modifications, medical therapies, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

If you experience persistent heartburn or reflux, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and management options.

Related Article: Prilosec Lawsuit Update

The ongoing litigation against Nexium highlights the severe health risks and corporate accountability issues tied to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

The following are some of the most notable lawsuits and settlements that underline the gravity of these concerns.

1. Tennessee Case: Charles Bower (July 5, 2016)

Charles Bowers, who began taking Nexium in 2003 and continued through 2008, developed acute interstitial nephritis and chronic active interstitial nephritis.

As a result of his condition, he requires dialysis treatment and needs a kidney transplant to survive. His lawsuit highlights the severe health impacts associated with long-term PPI use.

2. Louisiana Nexium Lawsuit (2021)

A Louisiana woman, Alice Donald, who allegedly developed kidney failure after taking Nexium, was allowed to pursue defect and warning claims.

On March 22, 2021, the judge denied a defense motion to dismiss, ruling that Donald had sufficiently pleaded claims of defect in construction or composition and design defect.

The court recognized that Nexium was potentially defective in its formulation and that safer alternatives were available.

3. Nexium Lawsuit Filed in New York (September 14, 2016)

Plaintiff George Mullen from Illinois filed a lawsuit against AstraZeneca in the Eastern District of New York, alleging kidney disease due to Nexium use.

He claimed that the drugmaker failed to adequately warn about the risk of serious kidney damage despite being aware of these dangers. He is seeking more than $10 million in damages.

4. Consumer Fraud Class Action

A consumer fraud class action lawsuit was filed against AstraZeneca alleging deceptive marketing practices regarding Nexium.

In Commonwealth Care Alliance v. AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals L.P., plaintiffs alleged that the drugmaker violated Massachusetts state law by deceptively marketing Nexium as superior to Prilosec (generic: omeprazole). The lawsuit seeks restitution for overpayments made by purchasers and damages for medical expenses.

Status of Current Litigation

As of November 2023, cases have been consolidated into Multidistrict Litigation (MDL No. 2789) in New Jersey, which includes lawsuits against several PPI medications like Nexium and Prilosec.

Over 18,600 PPI lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers like AstraZeneca, alleging kidney disease, kidney injury, kidney failure, and acute interstitial nephritis due to insufficient warnings about these risks.

“Our finding that the lining of blood vessels is impaired by proton pump inhibitors is a unifying mechanism for the reports that PPI users are at increased risk for heart attack, stroke and renal failure,” said John Cooke, Houston Methodist Research Institute chair of cardiovascular sciences and lead author of the study. “They {PPIs} are being used ubiquitously, for long periods of time. They aren’t being used as originally approved.”

Related Article: Zantac Lawsuit Update

Has a Nexium Class Action Lawsuit Been Filed?

wooden gavelA consumer fraud Nexium class action lawsuit was filed against AstraZeneca, alleging deceptive marketing practices with Nexium.

In the lawsuit entitled Commonwealth Care Alliance v. AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals L.P., Docket No. 05-0269, plaintiffs allege the drugmaker violated a Massachusetts state law by deceptively marketing Nexium as superior to Prilosec (generic: omeprazole).

The lawsuit asked the federal court to order AstraZeneca to pay restitution to purchasers for amounts they allegedly overpaid, award money damages for medical expenses, or grant other relief.

High-Stakes Compensation and Legal Penalties

AstraZeneca has faced multiple legal challenges and significant financial penalties related to Nexium and other proton pump inhibitors. In 2016, the company paid a $7.9 million penalty to the U.S. Department of Justice for engaging in a kickback scheme involving the sale of Nexium and Prilosec.

The year prior, AstraZeneca settled a national class-action lawsuit for $20 million, addressing allegations of deceptive marketing practices.

More recently, as of October 2023, AstraZeneca agreed to pay $425 million to resolve various lawsuits linked to kidney injuries caused by PPIs, underscoring these medications’ widespread legal and financial repercussions.

Joining the Nexium Lawsuits: What You Need to Know

Individuals considering joining PPI lawsuits must meet specific criteria to qualify as plaintiffs:

  • Diagnosis: A confirmed diagnosis of kidney-related conditions such as chronic kidney disease or acute interstitial nephritis after Nexium use.
  • Usage History: Documented prolonged use of Nexium or similar PPI medications.
  • Medical Records: Supporting evidence linking the injury to PPI use is essential.

By fulfilling these requirements, potential plaintiffs can strengthen their cases and pursue compensation for the damages they’ve endured.

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FAQs

Why Are Lawsuits Being Filed Against Nexium?

Lawsuits against Nexium are being filed because the medication has been linked to severe side effects that were not adequately disclosed to consumers. Plaintiffs claim that the manufacturer failed to warn about the risks, resulting in significant harm and health complications.

How Can a Nexium Attorney Help?

A Nexium attorney can assist victims by evaluating their case, gathering necessary evidence, and filing a lawsuit. They provide legal representation and support throughout the legal process, aiming to secure compensation for the injuries and damages suffered due to Nexium.

What Is the Current Status of Nexium Litigation?

Nexium litigation is ongoing, with numerous lawsuits filed by plaintiffs who allege severe side effects from the medication. The cases are in various stages, with some settled and others still in the litigation process, aiming to hold the manufacturer accountable.

Get a Free Nexium Kidney Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

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 Nexium lawsuits against Nexium.

We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently investigating potential class action lawsuits in all 50 states.

Again, if you were injured by Nexium, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a Nexium Kidney lawsuit and a Nexium Lawyer can help.

Reference:

  1. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0124653
  2. https://circres.ahajournals.org/content/118/12/e36
  3. https://www.internationaljournalofcardiology.com/article/S0167-5273(16)31065-8/abstract
  4. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0169826
  5. http://archinte.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=2481157
  6. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/science/population-and-epidemiology-studies
  7. http://journals.lww.com/jasn/pages/default.aspx
  8. http://gut.bmj.com/content/early/2017/09/18/gutjnl-2017-314605
  9. http://journals.lww.com/mdjournal/Fulltext/2016/07190/Rhabdomyolysis_associated_with_single_dose.50.aspx
  10. https://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/ucm290945.htm

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