The Maryland Tepezza lawsuit revolves around the potential risks of taking Tepezza, a drug approved by the FDA in January 2020 to treat thyroid eye disease (TED), and whether it can cause hearing loss or tinnitus. With more individuals coming forward with their experiences, it’s essential to stay informed and understand the legal implications of this situation.
If you or a family member has experienced Tepezza-related hearing loss, the devoted professionals at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, are ready to assist. As a highly regarded national law firm with expertise in representing plaintiffs, our primary mission is to secure the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.
Table Of Contents
- Maryland Tepezza Lawsuits
- What Is Tepezza?
- Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
- Potential Settlements and Compensation in Maryland Tepezza Lawsuits
- Who Qualifies to File a Maryland Tepezza Lawsuit?
- Filing a Maryland Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
- FAQs
- Get Your Free Legal Consultation From Maryland Tepezza Lawyers
Maryland Tepezza Lawsuits
Tepezza, manufactured by Horizon Therapeutics, gained FDA approval in 2020 for the treatment of thyroid eye disease (TED). The drug has reportedly caused hearing damage to numerous individuals, leading to a surge in Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits.
The consolidation of at least ten cases in the Northern District of Illinois underscores the importance of grasping the legal landscape surrounding these claims and the potential compensation available to those affected.
The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) issued a transfer order on June 2, 2023, in response to the growing number of cases. All Tepezza hearing damage lawsuits filed in the federal court system have been consolidated before U.S. District Judge Thomas Durkin is presiding in the Northern District of Illinois for coordinated pretrial proceedings.
He is responsible for managing and overseeing all such proceedings. This consolidation aims to streamline the legal process and address common issues across the cases efficiently.
Plaintiffs’ Claims and Horizon’s Defense
The plaintiffs in the Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits argue that Horizon failed to properly warn patients and physicians about the potential for hearing damage related to Tepezza. They claim that the company knew about the hearing loss risks associated with the drug but did not make it clear that patients should be monitored during treatment.
As a result, some patients subsequently suffered hearing damage. Case studies have shown that there were no improvements in hearing loss after receiving Tepezza injections.
On the other hand, Horizon Therapeutics has objected to the consolidation of the cases, arguing that the cases are too distinct to gain from pretrial coordination. The company maintains that the hearing problems caused by Tepezza are only temporary and should be resolved after stopping the injections. However, many patients have reported permanent hearing loss and hearing problems after taking the drug.
Key Evidence in Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuits
Evidence presented in the Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits includes studies and clinical trial data that suggest a connection between the drug and hearing loss or tinnitus. For instance, the Phase 3 clinical trial data and post-marketing studies have been discussed in the lawsuits. These studies have shown a high percentage of patients experiencing hearing loss or other new hearing problems after taking Tepezza.
The evidence implies that Tepezza could be linked to hearing loss and tinnitus by blocking the insulin-like growth factor-1 and the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor pathway, which helps protect inner ear hair cells from noise-induced damage, ischemia, and medication toxicity. This pivotal evidence significantly impacts the ongoing lawsuits and could sway the cases’ outcomes.
What Is Tepezza?
Tepezza is a medication manufactured by Horizon Therapeutics and approved by the FDA in January 2020 to treat thyroid eye disease (TED) [1]. TED, often associated with Graves’ disease, is an autoimmune condition that affects the muscles and tissues surrounding the eyes, leading to symptoms such as eye-bulging, double vision, and eye pain.
Tepezza works by blocking the insulin-like growth factor-1 and the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor pathway, providing relief to patients suffering from active TED.
Despite its FDA approval and effectiveness in treating TED, Tepezza has been associated with hearing loss and tinnitus as potential side effects. The FDA noted these risks, but patients and medical professionals argue that the warnings were not clear enough and that proper monitoring during treatment was not emphasized.
This has led to the surge in Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits and claims against Horizon Therapeutics.
Tepezza Side Effects & Hearing Loss
Although the FDA acknowledges the potential risks of hearing loss and tinnitus linked to Tepezza, a number of patients and physicians contend that the warnings were insufficient. Horizon Therapeutics has been accused of not properly warning patients and physicians about the potential for hearing damage and the need for monitoring during treatment.
Reports of potentially permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, and other hearing problems have emerged among Tepezza users who suffered permanent hearing loss. The growing number of patients experiencing these side effects has led to a surge in Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits, with plaintiffs claiming that Horizon Therapeutics failed to warn them about the risks associated with the drug properly.
Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
Tepezza does cause hearing problems. The evidence linking Tepezza to hearing loss and tinnitus includes studies, case reports, and the drug’s mechanism of action [2].
Horizon Therapeutics has maintained that the hearing problems caused by Tepezza are temporary and should be resolved after stopping the injections. However, many Tepezza patients have reported permanent hearing loss and hearing problems after taking the drug.
The mounting evidence of a connection between Tepezza and hearing loss or tinnitus has fueled the ongoing lawsuits against Horizon Therapeutics.
As many as 65% of Tepezza recipients experienced hearing loss or other new hearing problems. – The Endocrine Society
Potential Settlements and Compensation in Maryland Tepezza Lawsuits
While there have been no Tepezza settlements or lawsuit payouts yet, the increasing number of lawsuits filed against Horizon Therapeutics indicates that the company may start discussing settlements in the near future. The settlements in Maryland Tepezza lawsuits can vary, but they typically range from around $140,000 to $350,000, depending on the specifics of the case.
Joining a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit could make you eligible to receive both economic and non-economic damages for your losses. Economic damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs, while non-economic damages can encompass pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and emotional distress.
Medical Expenses
In a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit settlement, you may be able to recoup:
- Medical bills from additional treatment
- Past and future medical costs
- Expenses related to hearing loss, including costs for hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other medical devices related to additional treatment.
Moreover, travel expenses for medical appointments and other costs associated with the hearing loss may also be covered.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering is a type of non-economic damages that can be awarded in a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit intended to provide compensation for physical and emotional distress caused by the defendant’s negligence.
The courts determine the amount of pain and suffering awarded based on the evidence presented, taking into account the severity, duration, and impact of the injury on the plaintiff’s life.
In addition to pain and suffering, other non-economic damages that could be awarded include loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress.
Who Qualifies to File a Maryland Tepezza Lawsuit?
An individual who has received one or more Tepezza infusions and has been diagnosed with permanent hearing damage or tinnitus qualifies to file a Maryland Tepezza lawsuit. It’s crucial to act quickly and contact a law firm specializing in Tepezza lawsuits, as there is a limited amount of time to take legal action.
By filing a lawsuit, you seek financial compensation for your losses and hold the drug manufacturer accountable for their negligence.
Filing a Maryland Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
Filing a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit in Maryland requires the following steps:
- Gather evidence, including medical records, testimony from family and friends, and other evidence that shows the physical and emotional distress caused by the defendant’s negligence.
- Enlist the help of an experienced attorney who specializes in Tepezza lawsuits.
- Work with your attorney to assess your case and determine the best legal strategy.
- Your attorney will guide you through the legal process, including filing the lawsuit, negotiating with the defendant’s legal team, and representing you in court if necessary.
An experienced Tepezza lawyer can help you with each step of the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
You can reach out to law firms that specialize in Tepezza lawsuits so that they can provide you with a free legal consultation to determine if you qualify for a lawsuit and help you navigate the complexities of filing a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit in Maryland.
By working with a knowledgeable legal team, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
FAQs
Who can file a Tepezza lawsuit in Maryland?
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.
Is there a time limit for filing a Tepezza lawsuit in Maryland?
Yes, statutes of limitations apply and vary by state. In Maryland, it’s important to consult with a lawyer promptly to avoid missing the deadline.
See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get Your Free Legal Consultation From Maryland Tepezza Lawyers
Schmidt and Clark, LLP are here to provide steadfast assistance during your time of need. If you or a loved one has suffered hearing loss related to Tepezza, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Our team possesses extensive experience in handling such cases and will support you through every step of the process.
You have the right to be informed about your legal rights and your potential eligibility for a Tepezza class action lawsuit. Be assured that you will get a free consultation, and you will not have any financial obligations unless we successfully secure a favorable outcome for your case.
Connect with Schmidt and Clark today for a comprehensive case evaluation. Let us be your trusted partner on this legal journey.
Reference:
- https://www.tepezza.com/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9312457/