Free and Confidential Evaluation of Prilosec Legal Matter: If you or someone in your family has suffered from kidney damage or any serious side effects as a result of taking the prescription drug Prilosec, it is crucial that you immediately contact our attorneys for an evaluation of your situation at no charge.
You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit against the pharmaceutical company and our defective drug lawyers can help.
Table Of Contents
- What to Know About Prilosec (omeprazole) Lawsuits
- Prilosec Uses: Conditions Treated by Prilosec
- Prilosec (Omeprazole) Dangers and Side Effects
- Health Risks Beyond Kidney Concerns: Diseases Linked to Prilosec Use
- Has There Been a Prilosec Recall?
- Warning: Prilosec Can Interfere With Plavix
- Addicts Using Prilosec & Imodium Cocktail to Create Heroin-Like High
- Prilosec Kidney Damage Lawsuits and Multidistrict Litigation
- Compensation in Prilosec Lawsuits
- Filing a Prilosec Lawsuit: Key Requirements and Process
- FAQs
- Get a Free Prilosec Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
What to Know About Prilosec (omeprazole) Lawsuits
An increasing number of proton pump inhibitor lawsuits are being filed against the drug makers. The lawsuits allege that the manufacturer of omeprazole and other PPIs has failed to provide important safety information regarding serious complications such as chronic kidney disease and kidney failure.
Prilosec Uses: Conditions Treated by Prilosec
The Link Between PPIs and Kidney Health: Key Scientific Insights
Extensive research has shed light on the potential risks associated with prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), including Prilosec.
Recent studies have revealed a significant connection between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as Prilosec, and an increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Here’s what the research shows and its implications for patients and healthcare providers.
Alarming Increase in CKD Risk
Acute Interstitial Nephritis Linked to Prilosec Use
Acute interstitial nephritis, or AIN, is characterized by the infiltration into the interstitium of the kidney tubules by inflammatory cells.
Why this occurs in many patients is unclear, but the mechanism of action typically involves an immune-mediated hypersensitivity reaction.
If left untreated, AIN can progress to acute kidney failure (end-stage renal disease or ESRD) and is a common cause of hospital admissions for the condition [5].
A delay in diagnosis and continued use of Prilosec could lead to chronic kidney problems and more serious health consequences.
Symptoms of Acute Interstitial Nephritis
An analysis of 13 published reports observed that patients with acute interstitial nephritis associated with omeprazole (the active ingredient in Nexium, another PPI) commonly presented with [6]:
- Malaise
- Fever
- Nausea
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
Treatment of Acute Interstitial Nephritis
If Prilosec is determined to be the cause of your acute interstitial nephritis, the only treatment needed may be to quit taking the drug.
However, you should never quit or switch medications without talking to your doctor first.
Other cases of AIN can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications. Quick treatment often leads to a full recovery.
However, nephritis often causes permanent kidney problems before the condition can be diagnosed.
How Common is AIN?
The actual occurrence of PPI-induced acute interstitial nephritis is unknown, as many if not most cases are never reported due to confounding factors and lack of recognition.
Nexium is the PPI most commonly associated with the condition.
AIN has also been reported less frequently with other proton pump inhibitors such as Prevacid (generic: lansoprazole), but this may simply reflect the volume of use and a class effect is suspected [7].
A 2010 study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found 6 cases of acute interstitial nephritis associated with PPIs from 210 kidney biopsies between 2007 and 2008 [8].
Other Medications Linked to Nephritis
In addition to proton pump inhibitors, other types of drugs linked to interstitial nephritis chronic kidney problems include:
- Antibiotics
- Quinolones
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Diuretics (particularly those with a sulphonamide moiety, such as furosemide and thiazides)
- Allopurinol
- Calcium Channel Blockers
- Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (particularly captopril),
- Carbamazepine
- H2-antagonists
- Phenytoin
- Propylthiouracil
- Quinine
Health Risks Beyond Kidney Concerns: Diseases Linked to Prilosec Use
Emerging research has revealed that Prilosec (omeprazole) and other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may contribute to a variety of health risks beyond kidney-related issues. These findings highlight the need for caution and informed decision-making when using PPIs, especially at high doses or for extended periods.
PPIs Linked to Brain Problems, Study Finds
Proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec OTC may cause loss of brain function and fluid buildup in the abdomen, according to a new study published in Hepatology [9].
The study’s authors determined that 52% of patients took a PPI during clinical trials, and these patients had a 31% 1-year risk for loss of brain function (hepatic encephalopathy or “HE”).
“Our findings suggest that prescription of PPIs to patients with cirrhosis at risk of HE needs an appropriate indication,” said Dr. Gitte Dam at Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark, lead author of the study.
PPIs Linked to Increased Risks of Heart Failure, Stroke, and Death
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), commonly used to treat heartburn, have been associated with serious health risks, particularly for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and those at risk of stroke.
Heart Failure and Death in CAD Patients
A study published on March 23, 2017, in PLOS ONE revealed that PPI use in patients with CAD could increase the risk of heart attack and death [10].
These medications are often prescribed to prevent gastrointestinal complications in CAD patients undergoing chronic antiplatelet therapy (such as aspirin, Plavix, or Effient). However, researchers found that PPI use in this context may lead to several adverse outcomes, including:
- Pneumonia
- Micronutrient Deficiencies
- Osteoporosis-Related Fractures
These findings raise concerns about the widespread use of PPIs in CAD patients and suggest that the potential risks should be carefully considered.
Increased Risk of Ischemic Stroke
Research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2016 also linked PPI use to a higher risk of ischemic stroke.
The study analyzed records from 244,679 Danish patients, with an average age of 57, who underwent endoscopy to investigate gastrointestinal symptoms. Over a follow-up period of nearly six years, 9,489 patients experienced their first ischemic stroke.
Key findings include:
- Overall Risk: Stroke risk increased by 21% for PPI users compared to non-users.
- Dosage Matters:
- At low doses, stroke risk was minimal or absent.
- At high doses, stroke risk varied significantly:
- Lansoprazole (Prevacid): 30% increased risk.
- Pantoprazole (Protonix): 94% increased risk.
Related Article: Prevacid Lawsuit Update
Gastric Tumors, Bone Fractures, and Anemia
Pneumonia, Diarrhea, and Systemic Infections
The secretion of gastric acid plays a major role in our health. However, PPIs decrease it by up to 99%.
If these drugs are taken for a long time, the limited gastric acid makes users vulnerable to infection. This is because hydrochloric acid helps to kill bacteria and viruses in the food we eat.
Without it, Clostridium difficile enteritis, diarrhea, and pneumonia are more likely to occur.
January 6, 2017 – People who use PPIs like Prilosec may be at an increased risk of developing severe gut infections, according to a new study.
The research, published Thursday in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, found that among 565,000 adults, patients who took proton pump inhibitors had higher rates of infection with C. difficile and Campylobacter bacteria compared to those who didn’t use the drugs.
PPIs Linked to Increased Risk of Dementia
April 5, 2017 – Dementia patients who take proton pump inhibitors have an 89% increased risk of developing pneumonia compared to dementia patients who don’t use the medications, according to a study published last month in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Independent risk factors for pneumonia included age, male gender, underlying cerebrovascular disease, chronic pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, and antipsychotic use.
Bone Fractures
Prolonged use of Prilosec (omeprazole) and other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has been linked to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. Below is a detailed breakdown of the findings and regulatory warnings.
Impact on Nutrient Absorption and Bone Health
PPIs reduce stomach acid production, which plays a key role in nutrient absorption. When stomach acid levels are significantly lowered:
- Calcium Absorption: Reduced stomach acid can make it harder for the body to absorb calcium, leading to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures.
Research Findings on Fracture Risks
2006 JAMA Study
A December 2006 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found:
- Prolonged and/or high-dose use of Prilosec significantly increased the risk of hip fractures in patients over the age of 50.
Key Risk Factors
The risk of fractures is higher for patients who:
- Take high doses of PPIs.
- Use PPIs for periods longer than one year.
FDA Safety Warnings
March 2011 Update
The FDA updated its earlier communication, confirming that prolonged use of high-dose PPIs for more than a year can increase the risk of:
- Osteoporosis
- Bone fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine.
May 2010 Warning
The FDA announced that prescription-strength PPI drugs must include warnings about:
- The risk of bone fractures, especially for long-term and high-dose users.
This decision followed a review of several epidemiological studies that found a strong link between PPI use and bone fracture risks.
Prilosec Side Effects May Include Rhabdomyolysis, Case Report Finds
September 26, 2016 – A case report published last month in Medicine suggests that an intravenous dose of the PPI Nexium (esomeprazole) may have caused a patient to develop rhabdomyolysis, a condition in which skeletal muscle breaks down rapidly [11].
Over time, rhabdomyolysis can lead to kidney damage and renal failure, side effects that have previously been linked to the use of proton pump inhibitors.
If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional to explore diagnostic options and initiate appropriate treatment.
Has There Been a Prilosec Recall?
Despite the numerous studies and case reports linking heartburn medications like Prilosec to nephritis chronic kidney disease, no recall has been issued related to this condition in the U.S. or any other country.
Additional research and further investigation may be needed to uncover all the facts that may eventually lead to a Prilosec recall.
Warning: Prilosec Can Interfere With Plavix
Risk Assessment
- Higher Risk of Stroke: Studies show that patients taking both clopidogrel and omeprazole are more likely to have an ischemic stroke. The stroke rate was 81.67 per 1000 person-years for those using both medications, compared to 57.45 per 1000 person-years for patients taking clopidogrel alone. This means the combination increases the risk of stroke by about 39%.
- Heart Issues: Some studies found no clear increase in overall heart-related risks when these drugs are used together. However, other research suggests the reduced effectiveness of clopidogrel may lead to a higher chance of heart problems.
Addicts Using Prilosec & Imodium Cocktail to Create Heroin-Like High
Some opiate addicts are combining Prilosec with Imodium (loperamide) to obtain a heroin-like high, according to the American Council on Science and Health (ACSH) [12].
Because the body does not absorb Imodium as readily as it does other opiates, users who take Imodium as directed will not experience a high.
However, addicts have learned to mix Imodium with Prilosec to speed up the drug’s absorption into the bloodstream.
“The Prilosec changes the way our body handles the Imodium,” said Dr. William D. Eggleston, a clinical toxicologist at the Upstate New York Poison Center in Syracuse. “We have pumps along our gastrointestinal tract and they pump the Imodium away. Prilosec blocks those pumps, and that drastically reduces the amount of loperamide, or Imodium, needed to produce a high.”
Compensation in Prilosec Lawsuits
Individuals who have suffered severe health issues or lost a loved one due to Prilosec use may be eligible to file lawsuits to recover damages. Compensation in these cases may include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for past, current, and future treatment and recovery costs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for past and future income loss due to illness or injury.
- Loss of Enjoyment in Life: Damages for diminished quality of life.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: For individuals unable to continue working due to health complications.
For many, pursuing legal action serves as a crucial step in managing the financial burden of long-term treatment and recovery associated with Prilosec-related health issues.
Prilosec Lawsuit Settlement Amounts
Types of Prilosec Lawsuits
There are two main types of lawsuits that may be filed against Prilosec manufacturers:
- Personal Injury Lawsuits
Filed by individuals who have experienced severe health issues due to Prilosec, these lawsuits claim that manufacturers failed to adequately warn consumers, healthcare providers, and regulatory agencies about the risks associated with prolonged use of the drug. - Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Family members of individuals who died from health complications linked to long-term Prilosec use may file wrongful death claims. These lawsuits seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and the emotional and financial losses resulting from their loved one’s death.
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FAQs
Has Prilosec Been Subject to Any FDA Warnings?
Yes, the FDA has issued warnings regarding the potential risks of long-term Prilosec use, including increased risk of kidney disease and bone fractures.
What Evidence Is Needed to Support a Prilosec Lawsuit?
Key evidence includes medical records showing the use of Prilosec, documented side effects, expert medical opinions linking Prilosec to health issues, and any relevant research studies.
Can I File a Lawsuit if I Took Prilosec Over-The-Counter?
es, individuals who took Prilosec over-the-counter and suffered severe side effects can file a lawsuit. Both prescription and over-the-counter users may seek compensation for damages.
Get a Free Prilosec 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 Prilosec lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new kidney damage cases in all 50 states.
Free Confidential Prilosec Lawyer Evaluation: Again, if you were injured by Prilosec side effects, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing an omeprazole lawsuit and a Prilosec lawyer can help.