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Nexplanon Lawsuit Overview
Nexplanon lawsuits involve claims against Merck for failing to adequately warn women about the serious risks associated with the contraceptive implant. The primary allegations center on the manufacturer's failure to warn about life-threatening complications including blood clots, heart attack, and deep vein thrombosis.
Recent studies have shown that non-oral hormonal contraceptives like Nexplanon carry up to a 40% increased risk of blood clots. There are currently over 50 unfiled cases related to Implanon (Nexplanon's predecessor) and 18 pending lawsuits involving both Nexplanon and Implanon birth control implants.
Latest Nexplanon Lawsuit Updates
- August 2024 – Over 36% of U.S. participants in a multicenter clinical trial dropped out due to adverse effects, including irregular bleeding, mood swings, and weight gain, which has been cited in current lawsuits [1].
- 2023 – The FDA has updated Nexplanon's label multiple times to warn about potential risks including blood clotting, deep vein thrombosis, heart attack, and pulmonary embolism [2].
- July 2021 – A Beaufort County woman received a $600,000 settlement after claiming improper placement of a Nexplanon implant in 2014 caused nerve damage and permanent injury to her arm [3].
FDA Reports and Statistics
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has documented several concerns regarding Nexplanon safety. The FDA has updated Nexplanon's label multiple times to include warnings about blood clotting, deep vein thrombosis, heart attack, and pulmonary embolism. According to the US Courts, Nexplanon has a synergistic effect on those individuals with other risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE), and both obese women and African-American women experience VTE and other related cardiovascular events at higher rates [4].
A recent study from Denmark published in the British Medical Journal found increased risks of blood clots for women who use nearly all types of non-oral hormonal contraceptives, including contraceptive implants such as Nexplanon. The researchers found a 40% increased risk of blood clots. The study analyzed the risk of blood clots in Danish women between the ages of 15-49, from 2001 to 2010.
Nexplanon Injuries & Side Effects
Nexplanon users have reported a range of serious injuries and side effects, with blood clot-related complications being the most dangerous.
Our lawyers are accepting potential lawsuits on behalf of women who suffered the following serious side effects:
- Heart attack / cardiac event: Life-threatening cardiovascular complications requiring immediate medical intervention
- Blood clot: Dangerous clot formations that can lead to other serious conditions
- Pulmonary embolism: Blood clots that travel to the lungs, potentially fatal if untreated
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots forming in deep veins, usually in the legs
- Hospitalization: Serious complications requiring inpatient medical care
Additional side effects may include:
- Vascular damage
- Pulmonary artery damage
- Device migration
- Nausea
- Stomach cramping/bloating
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Weight gain
- Vaginal irritation/discharge
Related Article: Signs and Symptoms of Perforated Uterus IUD
Do You Qualify for a Nexplanon Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Nexplanon lawsuit if:
- You used Nexplanon or Implanon contraceptive implants
- You experienced serious side effects including blood clots, heart attack, pulmonary embolism, or deep vein thrombosis
- The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
- You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the implant
Evidence Required for a Nexplanon Lawsuit
To support a Nexplanon lawsuit, evidence may include:
- Medical records documenting the use of the implant and any resulting complications
- Records of surgeries or treatments required due to the implant
- Expert testimony linking the device to the health issues
- Documentation of any communication with healthcare providers or the manufacturer
Damages You Can Recover
In a Nexplanon lawsuit, plaintiffs may seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to treating complications
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Other damages associated with the harm caused by the implant
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct)
FAQs
1. What is Nexplanon and how does it work?
Nexplanon is a tiny, thin contraceptive implant about the size of a matchstick that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy for up to 3 years. It works by thickening cervical mucus to stop sperm and can prevent ovulation.
2. What are the legal grounds for filing a Nexplanon lawsuit?
Legal grounds may include product liability, failure to warn, negligence, and breach of warranty. Plaintiffs argue that Merck failed to adequately test the device or provide sufficient warnings about serious risks.
3. Can I file a lawsuit if the Nexplanon implant migrated in my body?
Yes, if the implant migrated and caused complications or required additional medical procedures, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Migration is a known risk that can lead to serious health issues.
4. What's the difference between Nexplanon and Implanon?
Nexplanon replaced Implanon in October 2010. Both contain the same hormone (etonogestrel) and work similarly, but Nexplanon has additional safety features designed to ensure proper insertion.
5. Which other birth control methods have been linked to blood clots?
Other contraceptives linked to blood clots include Implanon, Essure Permanent Birth Control, Yaz, Beyaz, Yasmin, and Ocella.
6. What makes Nexplanon blood clots so dangerous?
Blood clots can break off and travel to vital organs. Deep vein thrombosis occurs when clots form in main veins, and pulmonary embolism happens when clots travel to the lungs, potentially causing heart attack, stroke, or death.
7. How much compensation was awarded in recent Nexplanon cases?
A South Carolina woman received a $600,000 settlement after claiming improper Nexplanon placement caused nerve damage and permanent injury to her arm.
8. What do recent statistics show about Nexplanon lawsuits?
There are over 50 unfiled cases related to Implanon and 18 pending lawsuits involving both devices. [5] Over 36% of U.S. clinical trial participants dropped out due to adverse effects. [6]
9. What warnings does the FDA label include about Nexplanon?
The label warns that etonogestrel shouldn't be used by people with a history of blood clots. According to the Mayo Clinic, certain medicines and herbal products may lower progestin levels, potentially reducing the implant's effectiveness. [7]
10. Are there proper procedures for Nexplanon removal?
Yes, removal requires careful attention to verify the implant's location and proper post-removal care. Women should use backup contraception immediately after removal and watch for warning signs like numbness or excessive soreness.
See all defective medical devices litigations we've taken on.
Get a Free Nexplanon Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action for birth control-related injuries. If you or a loved one suffered serious complications from a birth control method, it's crucial to act quickly as statutes of limitations vary by state.
Our experienced legal team offers:
- Free, confidential consultations
- No upfront costs or fees
- Payment only if we win your case
References:
- https://ebwhj.journals.ekb.eg/article_351184_ea9e7a008c1f17fce0e1e285dc3a591d.pdf
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/021529s021s022s024lbl.pdf
- https://www.wistv.com/2021/07/06/sc-woman-receives-6-figure-payout-birth-control-implant-lawsuit/
- https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-arwd-5_21-cv-05200/pdf/USCOURTS-arwd-5_21-cv-05200-0.pdf
- https://www.lezdotechmed.com/blog/nexplanon-lawsuits/
- https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/NEXPLANON
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/contraceptive-implant/about/pac-20393619