Tepezza has become a controversial drug since its FDA approval in 2020 for treating thyroid eye disease (TED). While it has brought relief to many patients, it has also been linked to serious hearing problems.
Patients claim that the company failed to adequately assess patients hearing and warn them and their healthcare providers about the risk of permanent hearing damage, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
If Tepezza has had an impact on you or a family member, resulting in hearing loss issues, the committed professionals at Schmidt & Clark, LLP are available to assist. As a nationally acknowledged law firm with expertise in plaintiffs’ cases, our principal aim is to secure the justice and compensation you justly merit.
Table Of Contents
- Colorado Tepezza Lawsuit
- What Is Tepezza?
- Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
- Potential Settlements and Compensation in Colorado Tepezza Lawsuits
- Who Qualifies to File a Colorado Tepezza Lawsuit?
- Filing a Colorado Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
- FAQs
- Get Your Free Consultation From a Colorado Lawsuit Attorney
Colorado Tepezza Lawsuit
The legal action against Horizon Therapeutics stems from accusations that the company failed to sufficiently alert patients and healthcare providers about the risks associated with Tepezza treatment for thyroid eye disease (TED).
The plaintiffs claim that they have suffered permanent hearing loss and tinnitus due to Tepezza use and that Horizon failed to adequately warn them and their doctors about the potential risk of hearing damage.
The Colorado Tepezza lawsuit, currently in different stages of litigation, continue to unfold. Some of the cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation in the Northern District of Illinois to streamline the legal process and reduce the workload on state and federal courts. Despite the uncertain outcome, patients persist in their legal battle, pursuing compensation for their hearing loss and associated damages.
Plaintiffs’ Claims and Horizon’s Defense
In the Tepezza lawsuits, the plaintiffs allege the following:
- They experienced severe hearing loss and tinnitus shortly after receiving Tepezza infusions for their thyroid eye disease (TED).
- Horizon neglected to inform their physicians about the importance of monitoring hearing.
- Horizon didn’t perform adequate tests before securing FDA approval.
- Horizon exaggerated the number of people who would see benefits from the drug.
On the other hand, Horizon Therapeutics defends itself by arguing that the risks of hearing impairment were disclosed and that any hearing issues are temporary.
The company has filed a motion to dismiss some of the cases, stating that the plaintiff’s failure to warn claims should be dismissed based on the federal preemption doctrine, as the warning labels on Tepezza are governed by federal law and regulations, which override state law tort claims.
Current Status of Colorado Tepezza Lawsuits
At present, the Colorado Tepezza lawsuits are in different stages, with some being combined into multidistrict litigation in the Northern District of Illinois to manage the growing number of cases efficiently. This consolidation helps reduce the workload on state and federal courts across the country, which would otherwise have to deal with numerous cases with similar facts.
On October 25, 2023, a status conference is planned where it is expected that Judge Durkin will offer insights on electronic discovery protocols and resolve initial disputes between the parties regarding discovery rules.
Individuals who have experienced hearing loss or tinnitus due to Tepezza should keep abreast of the unfolding legal process and seek professional legal advice to determine their eligibility for filing a lawsuit.
What Is Tepezza?
Tepezza is a prescription medication used to treat thyroid eye disease (TED), a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the muscles, fatty tissue, and connective tissue surrounding the eyes, leading to symptoms like eye pain, redness, and swollen eyelids [1]. The FDA approved the drug in January 2020, and many patients have since used it to manage their TED symptoms.
The drug functions by suppressing the activity of the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), contributing to the reduction of inflammation and swelling around the eyes. Tepezza is administered intravenously (IV) over three to six months, with infusions given once every three weeks.
Despite the drug’s benefits for numerous TED patients, it’s been associated with severe side effects, including hearing loss and tinnitus.
Tepezza Side Effects & Hearing Loss
Many patients who have undergone Tepezza treatment have reported hearing-related side effects, including:
- Hearing loss
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Ear plugging sensation
- Autophony (a condition where one hears their voice unusually loud)
In response to these findings, the FDA has updated the warning label for Tepezza to include the potential risk of severe hearing impairment, including hearing loss that could be permanent in some cases [2].
This development has raised significant alarm among patients and healthcare providers, resulting in a multitude of lawsuits filed against Horizon Therapeutics on grounds of failure to sufficiently caution about Tepezza’s risks and potential adverse impact on patients’ hearing.
23% of those who received four or more infusions of Tepezza reported Tepezza-related hearing loss, while 27% reported tinnitus. – Stanford University
Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
Tepezza does cause hearing problems. Studies suggest a correlation between Tepezza and hearing problems, revealing that a considerable proportion of patients experience hearing loss and tinnitus following Tepezza infusions.
In a 2022 study, more than 80 percent of the 27 patients examined experienced hearing loss and tinnitus symptoms after undergoing Tepezza treatment [3].
Although the exact cause of the hearing problems associated with Tepezza is still being investigated, it is clear that the drug has been linked to serious and potentially permanent hearing issues in some patients.
Consequently, numerous patients who have suffered hearing loss or tinnitus post-Tepezza treatment are resorting to legal action against Horizon Therapeutics.
Potential Settlements and Compensation in Colorado Tepezza Lawsuits
For those who file a Colorado Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit, the potential settlement amounts and compensation may vary depending on the individual circumstances of each case.
Settlement amounts for Tepezza hearing loss claims may range from $140,000 to $350,000, depending on factors such as the severity of hearing loss, the impact on the plaintiff’s quality of life, and the extent of medical expenses incurred.
Compensation in these lawsuits may include:
- Medical expenses related to the hearing loss
- Pain and suffering endured by the plaintiffs
- Lost wages due to the inability to work or perform daily tasks
By seeking legal recourse, plaintiffs aim to hold Horizon Therapeutics accountable for their alleged failure to adequately warn about the risks associated with Tepezza and its potential impact on patients’ hearing.
Who Qualifies to File a Colorado Tepezza Lawsuit?
Those who have suffered from long-lasting or recurring hearing loss or tinnitus following Tepezza usage qualify to file a Colorado Tepezza lawsuit. In order to be eligible, plaintiffs must not have had any history of hearing loss prior to taking Tepezza treatment and must demonstrate that the drug caused their hearing issues.
If you or a loved one has experienced prolonged hearing loss or tinnitus after taking Tepezza, it’s important to seek legal advice to ascertain your eligibility for a lawsuit. A knowledgeable attorney can help assess your case, gather evidence, and guide you through the complex legal process.
Filing a Colorado Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
To initiate a Colorado Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit, one must meet specific eligibility criteria and comply with the time constraints established by the statute of limitations. Working with a legal professional can ensure that you navigate the legal process effectively and maximize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Your Tepezza lawyer will be with you every step of the way, guiding the entire civil lawsuit process. From gathering evidence to assessing damages, a skilled attorney can help you build a strong case and advocate for your best interests. If you believe you have grounds to file a Tepezza lawsuit, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice.
Qualifying Factors
When contemplating a Tepezza lawsuit, it’s vital to consider various factors, including the gravity of your hearing loss, the effects on your daily life, and the cost of your medical care. To be eligible to file a Colorado Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit, you need to have taken Tepezza and then experienced permanent hearing loss or tinnitus and not have had any history of hearing loss prior to taking Tepezza treatment.
Time Limits to File
Since the statutes of limitations for filing a Tepezza lawsuit vary by state, it’s advisable to consult a legal professional to ascertain the correct time frame. The statute of limitations for filing a Tepezza lawsuit varies by state, making it essential to talk to a legal expert to ensure you’re within the right timeframe.
Since time is of the essence, it’s crucial to get in touch with a Tepezza attorney as soon as possible if you’ve experienced hearing loss or tinnitus due to the drug. A knowledgeable lawyer can help you understand the time limits set by the statute of limitations and guide you through the filing process to ensure you have the best chance of receiving compensation.
FAQs
Who can file a Tepezza lawsuit in Colorado?
Individuals who have experienced severe side effects or complications after using Tepezza may be eligible. Consult a lawyer to discuss your specific case.
What compensation might I receive from a Tepezza lawsuit?
Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Each case varies based on individual circumstances.
How can I prove that Tepezza caused my injuries?
Proof may include medical records, documentation of Tepezza use, expert testimony, and studies linking Tepezza to the reported side effects.
See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get Your Free Consultation From a Colorado Lawsuit Attorney
At Schmidt and Clark, LLP we stand by your side during your time of need. If you or a loved one has faced issues related to Tepezza, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team brings extensive expertise in handling such cases and will guide you through the entire process.
You have the right to be informed about your legal rights and potential eligibility for a lawsuit. It’s important to note that our consultations are always free, and you won’t have any financial obligations unless we achieve a favorable outcome for your case. Our commitment is to serve you with the same compassion and dedication we would offer to our own families.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Schmidt and Clark today for a comprehensive case evaluation. Allow us to be your trusted partner on this legal journey.
Reference:
- https://www.Tepezza.com/
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/761143s023lbl.pdf
- https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml