The Minnesota Tepezza lawsuit comprises product liability cases filed by individuals who suffered permanent hearing loss or tinnitus following Tepezza injections. These patients are seeking monetary compensation for the damage the medication caused and justice for the negligence they believe Horizon Therapeutics, the manufacturer of Tepezza, displayed in not adequately warning them about the potential side effects.
If Tepezza has had an impact on you or a cherished family member, resulting in hearing loss or related issues, Schmidt & Clark LLP's devoted team is at your service. As a nationally acknowledged law firm with expertise in plaintiffs' cases, our utmost goal is to secure the justice and compensation that you rightfully deserve.
Minnesota Tepezza Lawsuits
The Minnesota Tepezza lawsuits involved patients who suffered hearing loss and experienced severe hearing damage after taking Tepezza for the treatment of thyroid eye disease. Plaintiffs allege that Horizon Therapeutics failed to properly inform doctors and patients about the potential risks of hearing loss and tinnitus while using Tepezza, which led to the class action lawsuit.
As of now, around 30 lawsuits have been filed across the United States, some of which involve claims of sensorineural hearing loss. These lawsuits claim cases are currently awaiting a decision on whether they will be combined into a loss class action lawsuit.
The outcome of the initial cases, known as bellwether trials, could significantly impact the remaining cases and determine whether the defendants decide to settle or continue fighting in court.
The Tepezza lawsuits underscore the necessity of appropriate warning labels and clear communication between pharmaceutical companies, doctors, and patients to warn patients adequately. The ongoing legal battle underscores the potential fallout when safety information is not properly communicated.
Plaintiffs' Claims and Horizon's Defense
In the Tepezza lawsuits, plaintiffs claim that Horizon Therapeutics was negligent in not properly informing patients and doctors about the potential hearing damage associated with the drug. They allege that the company:
- Failed to provide instructions for physicians to perform hearing tests during treatment, which could have allowed for early detection and mitigation of hearing damage
- Was aware of the risks of their drug
- Should have been aware of these risks
Horizon Therapeutics has attempted to dismiss some of the lawsuits, defending their actions and the FDA approval of Tepezza. While the outcome of these lawsuits is not yet clear, this legal confrontation underlines the need for accurate warning labels and clear communication among pharmaceutical companies, doctors, and patients.
Recent Developments in Tepezza Lawsuits Nationwide
Since the beginning of March 2023, four more hearing loss lawsuits have been filed in federal courts, bringing the total number of lawsuits to 34. This increase in lawsuits indicates that more patients are coming forward with allegations of hearing loss and tinnitus related to Tepezza use, drawing further attention to the issue.
As the number of lawsuits increases, so do the stakes for Horizon Therapeutics. The company's attempts to dismiss some cases and the ongoing legal battle serve as a reminder of the importance of proper warning labels and transparent communication between pharmaceutical companies, doctors, and patients.
The rulings of these lawsuits could significantly impact the pharmaceutical industry and those dealing with hearing issues linked to Tepezza.
What Is Tepezza?
Tepezza is a prescription drug that is used to treat thyroid eye disease (TED) and Graves' eye disease [1]. It helps to improve the appearance of the eyes and double vision. It is administered intravenously and impacts the growth of eye tissue, helping to alleviate the symptoms of these conditions.
It functions by inhibiting a particular protein responsible for the growth of TED, providing relief for those suffering from these conditions. Tepezza is the only drug approved by the FDA for treating TED, making it a crucial treatment option for many patients.
However, despite its FDA approval and effectiveness in treating thyroid eye disease, Tepezza has been linked to a concerning side effect: permanent hearing loss and tinnitus. This has sparked a wave of lawsuits against Horizon Therapeutics as patients pursue justice and compensation for their hearing damage resulting from Tepezza injections.
Tepezza Side Effects & Hearing Loss
Tepezza has been associated with hearing loss, tinnitus, and deafness in some patients who received the drug. In fact, around 60% of patients experience hearing loss as a side effect of Tepezza. In response to these side effects, the FDA updated Tepezza's warning labels to mention the risk of hearing loss in July 2023.
"65% of patients who received Tepezza injections experienced hearing loss, hearing damage, or tinnitus. This risk exceeds what Horizon revealed on their product packaging and warning labels, leading to worries about the drug's safety and transparency."- The Endocrine Society
Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
Tepezza does cause hearing problems. The evidence linking Tepezza to hearing-related issues is substantial. Patients who received Tepezza injections have reported abnormal reactions, which can cause permanent hearing damage and hearing loss [2].
Further supporting the connection between Tepezza and hearing issues is a case series published in January 2022, which detailed Tepezza-associated hearing loss in 28 patients treated by three doctors.
The authors of the study have shed light on the chemical processes that may be responsible for the hearing damage caused by Tepezza. This could explain how it is having such an effect. Given this mounting evidence, it's evident that Tepezza poses a significant threat to patients' auditory health.
Potential Settlements and Compensation in Minnesota Tepezza Lawsuits
For those involved in Minnesota Tepezza lawsuits, the potential settlements and compensation will depend on the specifics of their cases and the damages they have suffered, such as hearing loss. Factors that may influence the value of a case include:
- The age of the person involved.
- The extent of their hearing loss.
- Any prior hearing issues they may have had.
The anticipated settlement compensation for a well-substantiated Tepezza hearing loss case is expected to range from $140,000 to $350,000. However, cases involving a major, permanent hearing loss in relatively young plaintiffs could be worth significantly more than this estimated range. Ultimately, the value of a case will depend on the individual circumstances and the strength of the evidence presented.
Who Qualifies to File a Minnesota Tepezza Lawsuit?
An individual who has received Tepezza injections for thyroid eye disease and subsequently experienced hearing loss or ringing in the ears qualifies to file a Minnesota Tepezza lawsuit. Those who have suffered from these side effects should seek legal advice to determine their eligibility for settlements or compensation.
Law firms can assist Tepezza users in determining if they qualify to file a hearing loss lawsuit in Minnesota. A free, no-obligation case review can help you understand your legal options and determine the best course of action to seek justice and compensation for the hearing damage you have experienced.
Filing a Minnesota Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
To file a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit in Minnesota, it's crucial to seek the assistance of a law firm with experience in handling such cases. By pursuing legal action, you may be eligible for compensation for the damages you have suffered, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Before altering medications, it's crucial to consult with your doctor and seek legal counsel to ascertain your eligibility for settlements or compensation.
Legal Grounds for Filing a Tepezza Lawsuit in Minnesota
The grounds for filing a Tepezza lawsuit in Minnesota lie in the negligent failure to adequately warn patients and doctors about the potential auditory risks linked to the drug.
The plaintiffs allege that Horizon Therapeutics did not provide adequate information or instructions for monitoring permanent hearing impairment while taking Tepezza, leading to the class action lawsuit.
To initiate a Tepezza lawsuit in Minnesota, you must provide evidence of hearing loss, hearing damage, or tinnitus resulting from Tepezza injections. The strength of your case will depend on the evidence you can present and the specific circumstances of your situation.
Minnesota Statutes of Limitations
Statutes of limitations are deadlines set by each state for filing a civil lawsuit, and they vary depending on the type of case and the jurisdiction. In Minnesota, a six-year window from the date of injury is allotted for filing a Tepezza lawsuit. It's essential to be aware of these deadlines and to take timely action to ensure your right to seek justice and compensation is not compromised.
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Get Your Free Case Evaluation From Minnesota Tepezza Lawyers Today
At Schmidt and Clark, LLP we stand ready to provide steadfast assistance during your times of need. If you or a cherished family member has encountered issues linked to Tepezza, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. Our team boasts substantial experience in managing such cases and will be with you every step of the way.
You deserve to be well-informed about your legal rights and the potential eligibility for a lawsuit. Please be assured that our consultations are always offered without any charges, and you won't have to bear any financial obligations unless we secure a favorable outcome for your case.
We encourage you to connect with Schmidt and Clark today for a comprehensive evaluation of your case. Allow us to be your trusted partner on this legal journey.
Reference:
- https://www.tepezza.com/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9718703/