Michigan Tepezza Lawsuit Attorney

Tepezza, a prescription drug used to treat Graves’ disease and thyroid eye disease (TED), has been making headlines lately due to the Michigan Tepezza lawsuits. Although Tepezza has been prescribed to thousands of patients suffering from these conditions, many doctors were unaware of the potential risks associated with the drug.

In the event that you or a family member have been impacted by Tepezza and faced challenges related to hearing loss, rest assured that the devoted team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is at your service. As a law firm with a national reputation specializing in cases on behalf of plaintiffs, our foremost aim is to secure the justice and compensation that you rightfully deserve.

Michigan Tepezza Lawsuits

Horizon Therapeutics, the manufacturer of Tepezza, is facing numerous lawsuits filed by patients who claim that the company failed to adequately warn them and their doctors about the risk of hearing loss associated with the drug.

These lawsuits have been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and are part of a multidistrict litigation focusing on Tepezza-induced hearing loss.

Plaintiffs in these cases contend that Tepezza is responsible for their hearing loss, accusing Horizon Therapeutics of insufficiently warning doctors and patients about potential permanent hearing loss and tinnitus.

As these cases progress through the legal system, they are classified as product liability lawsuits, which focus on holding drug companies accountable for any harm caused by their products.

Plaintiffs’ Claims and Horizon’s Defense

The plaintiffs in the Michigan Tepezza lawsuits allege that the drug caused their hearing loss by blocking a protein called IGF-1R, which can damage the hair cells responsible for hearing and balance. They argue that Horizon Therapeutics didn’t test the drug properly before it was released, suggesting that it was defective from the start.

Horizon, in its defense, emphasizes that they disclosed the risk of hearing loss during clinical trials. They argue that the warning labels on Tepezza are regulated by federal law, which overrules any state law tort claims based on the federal preemption doctrine.

This defense strategy has been used in both the Weibel and Nethery cases, where Horizon submitted the same Motion to Dismiss in federal courts, arguing for dismissal based on the federal preemption doctrine.

What Is Tepezza?

Tepezza is a prescription medication that was approved by the FDA in 2020 to treat thyroid eye disease, a condition that affects the muscles and tissues around the eyes [1].

Thyroid eye disease, also known as Graves’ eye disease or TED is a rare autoimmune disorder that can cause symptoms such as eye pain, double vision, and bulging eyes. As a thyroid eye disease drug, Tepezza offers a targeted treatment option for those suffering from this condition.

Tepezza is the first drug to receive FDA approval specifically designed to treat this condition. The drug’s main ingredient is teprotumumab-tube, and it is administered as Tepezza infusions in a doctor’s office.

Tepezza Side Effects & Hearing Loss

Although Tepezza is associated with multiple side effects, recent research reveals a higher risk of hearing loss than initially disclosed during clinical trials. Hearing issues linked to Tepezza include:

• Tinnitus (persistent ringing in the ears)
• Hearing loss or impairment
• Hyper- or hyperacusis (increased or decreased sensitivity to certain sounds)
• Autophony (hearing one’s voice loudly)
• Eustachian tube dysfunction (a condition that affects the small tubes connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat)

These side effects can have a significant impact on the quality of life for patients who have been treated with Tepezza.

Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?

Tepezza does cause hearing problems. Research indicates that Tepezza may cause hearing problems in more than 10% of patients [2]. In fact, during clinical trials, around 10% of participants experienced hearing-related issues such as:

• Deafness
• Eustachian tube dysfunction
• Hyperacusis
• Autophony

However, recent studies have shown that the risk of hearing loss is higher than initially reported, with some cases resulting in irreversible damage for those who suffer hearing loss.

Keep in mind that hearing problems will not affect all patients treated with Tepezza. The severity and duration of the hearing issues can vary from person to person, and some patients may recover fully after stopping the drug.

Despite this, the link between Tepezza and hearing loss has sparked worries among both patients and healthcare practitioners, with some doctors unaware of the potential connection.

TEPEZZA may cause severe hearing impairment including hearing loss, which in some cases may be permanent. – Food and Drug Administration

Types of Hearing Problems Associated with Tepezza

Tinnitus, hearing loss or impairment, hyper- or hyperacusis, autophony, and eustachian tube dysfunction are among the hearing issues associated with Tepezza. Patients who have experienced these side effects report difficulty hearing or understanding speech, sensitivity to certain sounds, and a constant ringing or buzzing in their ears.

In some cases, the hearing problems caused by Tepezza can be temporary and short-lived, while others may experience permanent damage.

Potential Settlements and Compensation in Michigan Tepezza Lawsuits

Settlement amounts for Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits could range from $140,000 to $350,000, depending on factors such as age, preexisting hearing issues, and the severity of the hearing loss. It’s important to remember that each case is unique, and the potential compensation will vary based on the individual circumstances of the plaintiff.

If Tepezza use has resulted in hearing loss for you or a loved one, seeking legal counsel from Tepezza lawsuit lawyers is crucial to assess your case’s potential value and the optimal strategy for pursuing compensation.

Who Qualifies to File a Michigan Tepezza Lawsuit?

Individuals who have experienced hearing loss or damage after being treated with Tepezza qualify to file a Michigan Tepezza lawsuit. To be eligible for a Tepezza lawsuit, you must have experienced hearing loss or damage after being treated with the drug.

If you deem yourself eligible, contacting a lawyer skilled in managing dangerous drug lawsuits and product liability cases is vital. They can assist you in navigating the legal process and seeking compensation for your damages.

Filing a Michigan Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit

Patients who suffered hearing loss and intend to file a lawsuit should engage a lawyer, discuss their situations, and furnish medical records confirming Tepezza as the cause of their hearing loss.

An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you seek the compensation you deserve for your hearing loss or damage.

Statute of Limitations for Michigan Tepezza Lawsuits

The time limit to file a Tepezza lawsuit for hearing loss varies by state, so it is crucial to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case. The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit or pursuing compensation can range between two and four years, depending on the state in which you reside.

To not forfeit your opportunity to seek damages, prompt action and consultation with a seasoned lawyer are crucial.

FAQs

Who can file a Tepezza lawsuit in Michigan?

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 Michigan?

Yes, statutes of limitations apply and vary by state. In Michigan, it’s important to consult with a lawyer promptly to avoid missing the deadline.

Get Your Free Case Review From Michigan Tepezza Lawyers Today

At Schmidt and Clark, LLP we are steadfast in assisting during your times of need. If you or a cherished family member have encountered complications associated with Tepezza, please feel free to contact us without hesitation. Our team possesses extensive expertise in managing cases like these, and we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

You deserve to be well-informed about your legal rights and the potential eligibility for pursuing a lawsuit. Be assured that our consultations are always offered free of charge, and you will not incur any financial commitments unless we secure a favorable outcome for your case.

Do not hesitate to get in touch with Schmidt and Clark today for a comprehensive case evaluation. Allow us to be your trusted partner on this legal journey.

Reference:

1. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-thyroid-eye-disease
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9312457/