Tepezza, a drug approved by the FDA to treat thyroid eye disease (TED), has been the subject of numerous lawsuits claiming that the drug causes hearing loss and tinnitus. With the cases now consolidated into multi-district litigation, the legal proceedings continue to unfold.
If Tepezza has affected you or a family member, leading to hearing loss, Schmidt & Clark LLP is ready to offer our support. As a nationally recognized law firm specializing in plaintiff cases, our core mission is to secure the justice and compensation that you rightfully deserve.
Table Of Contents
- Delaware Tepezza Lawsuits
- What Is Tepezza?
- Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
- Potential Settlements and Compensation in Delaware Tepezza Lawsuits
- Who Qualifies to File a Delaware Tepezza Lawsuit?
- Filing a Delaware Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
- FAQs
- Get A Free Consultation from Delaware Tepezza Lawyers
Delaware Tepezza Lawsuits
The Delaware Tepezza lawsuits revolve around claims filed against Horizon Therapeutics, asserting that the company did not adequately warn patients about the risk of hearing loss and tinnitus associated with the drug. These cases highlight the importance of transparency and proper labeling when it comes to potential side effects.
Comprehending the main actors and significant advancements in the lawsuits becomes imperative as the legal proceedings advance.
Plaintiffs’ Claims and Horizon’s Defense
The plaintiffs in the Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits allege the following:
- Their doctors prescribed a full series of Tepezza infusions over four months to treat their TED.
- Shortly after receiving the infusions, they suffered permanent hearing loss and tinnitus.
- These side effects were not previously reported.
- They argue that Horizon Therapeutics failed to warn both patients and doctors about the risk of hearing loss.
- They claim that the company was aware of the potential side effects but chose not to disclose it.
Horizon refutes the allegations and challenges the notion of case consolidation, asserting the cases are unique and wouldn’t benefit from pretrial coordination in federal courts. They have also filed a Motion to Dismiss, citing the federal preemption doctrine, which states that federal law takes priority over state law.
However, the federal preemption argument may not hold up in court, as federal law and FDA regulations allow drug companies to update their warning labels without FDA approval if new risk evidence arises.
Consolidation of Cases and Multi-District Litigation
To streamline the legal process, the Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation in the Northern District of Illinois.
This special federal legal procedure is designed to handle complex cases, such as the Tepezza cases, by consolidating them and addressing all pretrial procedures in one court. This consolidation can be beneficial for both lawyers and their clients, as it can save time and resources.
Judge Thomas M. Durkin is overseeing the Tepezza MDL, and the Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee (PEC) is responsible for representing the plaintiffs’ interests. This team of legal professionals works together to ensure that the litigation process is as efficient and fair as possible for all parties involved.
Recent Updates on Delaware Tepezza Lawsuits
New developments keep surfacing as the Delaware Tepezza lawsuits evolve. In July 2023, the FDA issued an update to the warning labels for Tepezza. It noted that the drug may pose a risk of permanent hearing impairment or loss.
This update is a major step forward in raising awareness about the potential risks associated with the drug, and it serves as a crucial piece of evidence in the ongoing legal battle.
The outcomes and settlements are still uncertain, as the lawsuits claim, since they are in their initial stages.
What Is Tepezza?
Tepezza is a prescription medication used to treat thyroid eye disease (TED), a rare autoimmune disorder often associated with Graves’ disease [1]. The drug is administered intravenously over three to six months and is designed to help manage symptoms of TED, such as:
- Swelling
- Inflammation
- Double vision
- Blurred vision
Despite Tepezza’s effectiveness in treating numerous TED patients, the Delaware Tepezza lawsuits are now centered on its potential side effects, particularly permanent hearing loss and tinnitus.
Tepezza Side Effects & Hearing Loss
Despite its success in treating TED, Tepezza has been associated with grave side effects, especially hearing loss and tinnitus. These side effects have become the crux of the Delaware Tepezza lawsuits, with plaintiffs alleging that Horizon Therapeutics failed to warn patients and doctors about the potential risks adequately.
The severity of the hearing loss and tinnitus experienced by some patients has raised concerns about the drug’s safety and the need for further research.
This alarming statistic highlights the need for greater transparency from drug manufacturers and more thorough investigations into potential side effects. As the Delaware Tepezza lawsuits continue, the relationship between Tepezza and permanent hearing loss remains a critical issue.
Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
Tepezza does cause hearing problems. Research and evidence indicate a substantial connection between Tepezza and hearing loss or tinnitus. In clinical trials, about 10% of patients reported hearing problems related to Tepezza, but recent studies have indicated that the rate could be as high as 65% [2].
This significant discrepancy in the reported rates of hearing loss highlights the need for further investigation into Tepezza’s side effects and the potential risks it poses to patients.
The FDA’s update on Tepezza in July 2023, which added a warning about the risk of permanent hearing damage, further reinforces the connection between the drug and hearing problems, including permanent hearing loss.
This development underscores the importance of patients being aware of the potential risks associated with Tepezza infusions and the need for continued research and monitoring of the drug’s side effects.
More patients than previously reported may experience hearing symptoms such as hearing loss or muffled hearing from a new treatment for thyroid eye disease, teprotumumab (Tepezza). – Andrea Lora Kossler, M.D., Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at Stanford University School of Medicine
Potential Settlements and Compensation in Delaware Tepezza Lawsuits
The potential settlements and compensation for affected patients are being discussed as the Delaware Tepezza lawsuits unfold. Though it is still too early to determine the typical Tepezza settlement amount, those who have experienced hearing loss or tinnitus after taking the drug could receive compensation ranging from $140,000 to $350,000.
This compensation could cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to thyroid eye disease treatment.
Who Qualifies to File a Delaware Tepezza Lawsuit?
An individual who has suffered hearing loss (permanent or partial), tinnitus, or other auditory damage after using Tepezza for TED qualifies to file a Delaware Tepezza lawsuit. If you fall into this category, you can bring a product liability lawsuit against Horizon Therapeutics and seek financial compensation for the harm you have suffered.
It is crucial to consult with legal professionals to determine your eligibility and the steps required to file a lawsuit. Collaborating with seasoned attorneys can guarantee proper case handling and ensure you acquire the deserved compensation.
From gathering evidence to navigating the complex legal process, having a legal team on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Filing a Delaware Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
If you think you have a case for a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit, start by collecting evidence and assessing the damages. An experienced dangerous drug attorney can assist you in this process, ensuring that your case is built on a strong foundation.
They can help you understand the legal process, navigate the complexities of multi-district litigation, and advocate for your best interests throughout the proceedings.
Numerous law firms provide free consultations and case evaluations to help you file a Tepezza lawsuit and ascertain your eligibility. These services can be invaluable in helping you understand your legal options and decide on the best course of action.
Additionally, many attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if your case results in compensation. This arrangement allows you to pursue your case without the burden of upfront legal fees, making filing Tepezza lawsuits more accessible for those in need.
FAQs
What should I do if I experience side effects from Tepezza?
Seek immediate medical attention and consult a healthcare professional. Document your symptoms and consider consulting a lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Are there any class-action lawsuits for Tepezza?
Yes, there may be ongoing class-action lawsuits that consolidate individual claims to streamline the legal process and increase the chances of a favorable outcome.
Can I join a Tepezza lawsuit if I used it years ago?
Yes, you may still be eligible to file a lawsuit depending on the statute of limitations and your diagnosis timeline. Consult a lawyer to evaluate your case.
What evidence is needed for a Tepezza lawsuit?
Evidence includes medical records, proof of Tepezza use, expert testimonies, and studies linking Tepezza to the adverse side effects experienced.
See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get A Free Consultation from Delaware Tepezza Lawyers
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP we stand by your side during your time of need. If you or a loved one has faced complications related to Tepezza, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Our team is highly experienced in handling such cases and will support you every step of the way.
You have every right to understand your legal rights and the potential eligibility for a Tepezza class action lawsuit. Be assured that our consultations are always offered free of charge, and you won’t have any financial obligations unless we secure a favorable outcome for your case. Our commitment is to serve you with the same empathy and dedication we would offer to our own families.
Reach out to Schmidt & Clark today for a comprehensive case evaluation. Let us be your trusted partner on this legal journey.
Reference:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9312457/
- https://myhealth.ucsd.edu/RelatedItems/6,1651114368