The Oregon Tepezza lawsuit is an ongoing legal battle involving patients who have suffered hearing loss after taking the medication Tepezza. These individuals allege that Horizon Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Tepezza, did not adequately warn them about the potential permanent hearing damage risks associated with the drug.
The most recent update in this legal saga is the October 2023 hearing, which focuses on patients who took Tepezza for thyroid eye disease (TED) and experienced hearing loss.
If Tepezza has impacted you or someone you care about, leading to issues related to hearing loss, the committed professionals at Schmidt & Clark, LLP are available to assist. As a nationally acknowledged law firm with a specialization in plaintiffs’ cases, our foremost goal is to secure the justice and rightful compensation you deserve.
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Oregon Tepezza Lawsuits
Patients in Oregon are taking legal action against Horizon Therapeutics, claiming the company failed to inform them about the potential hearing loss risks that come with taking Tepezza. The Tepezza class action lawsuit is ongoing, with more plaintiffs joining the case.
These lawsuits are filed by people who received Tepezza injections for thyroid eye disease and then experienced hearing loss or tinnitus. Horizon Therapeutics, the defendant in these lawsuits, has faced more than 30 cases since August 2022.
The Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits have been combined into one large case in the Northern District of Illinois. So far, 54 Tepezza cases are pending in the MDL, with no trials scheduled yet and no court-approved settlements.
Plaintiffs’ Claims and Horizon’s Defense
The plaintiffs in the Tepezza lawsuits claim that Horizon Pharmaceuticals did not provide enough warning to patients or their doctors about the potential for hearing damage from the medication. The plaintiffs in the Tepezza lawsuits claim that the company should have updated the Tepezza label and suggested audiological monitoring for patients.
In the first Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit, the plaintiff accused Horizon of obtaining FDA approval for Tepezza by not revealing raw data, analyses, and other important information that showed patients who used the drug could experience serious hearing-related issues.
On the other hand, Horizon’s defense argues that the plaintiffs’ claims due to lack of warning should be dropped due to the federal preemption doctrine. They assert that the warning labels on Tepezza are regulated by federal law and regulations, which override state law tort claims.
However, drug companies are allowed to change their warning labels without FDA approval if new risk evidence appears due to federal law and FDA regulations.
Updates on Oregon Tepezza Lawsuits
As of October 2023, the Tepezza class action preliminary status hearing is scheduled for September 19, 2023, at 9:15 a.m. Magistrate Judge M. David Weisman is in charge of the discovery process for the Tepezza class action. The outcome of these lawsuits remains uncertain as more cases are being filed and the legal proceedings continue.
What Is Tepezza?
Tepezza is a medication used to treat thyroid eye disease, a condition that causes eye pain, redness, and swollen eyelids. It can even cause the eye to protrude outward, leading to a bulging look and double vision [1].
The FDA approved Tepezza in January 2020. However, since its approval, there have been concerns about the potential side effects of the medication, particularly the risk of hearing loss or damage.
Thyroid eye disease is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects people with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition that causes the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone.
While Tepezza has been effective in treating thyroid eye disease, the potential side effects have raised concerns among patients and medical professionals alike.
Tepezza Side Effects & Hearing Loss
Tepezza has been reported to cause not only the intended therapeutic effects but also permanent hearing problems. Such problems include deafness, hearing loss, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
A study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology revealed that taking Tepezza usually resulted in hearing loss, tinnitus, and other auditory issues [2]. Furthermore, such symptoms were reported by most of the patients who participated in the study.
Over 80% of the 27 patients studied experienced hearing loss and tinnitus after receiving Tepezza infusions. – The Endocrine Society Journal
The exact cause of Tepezza-related hearing loss is still unclear. Still, the high prevalence of hearing problems among patients who have undergone Tepezza treatment has led to increased scrutiny and concern.
As increasing numbers of patients lodge hearing loss claims, understanding the potential risks of this medication and balancing them against the benefits of treating thyroid eye disease becomes crucial.
Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
Tepezza does cause hearing problems. The evidence linking Tepezza to hearing loss is a subject of ongoing debate. Here are some different perspectives on the issue:
- One study showed that 2 out of 3 patients who were given Tepezza experienced new hearing problems.
- Horizon claims that only 10% of users may experience hearing loss as a potential side effect.
- In a small study presented at ENDO 2021, around 65% of patients reported experiencing hearing loss or tinnitus when taking Tepezza.
Although the exact relationship between Tepezza treatment and hearing problems is still under investigation, the growing number of Tepezza users reporting hearing loss after using the medication raises concerns.
Patients and healthcare providers must remain vigilant about the potential risks associated with Tepezza and monitor hearing during and after treatment.
Potential Settlements and Compensation in Oregon Tepezza Lawsuits
Patients who have experienced hearing loss after using Tepezza may be eligible for compensation if they file a successful lawsuit against Horizon Pharmaceuticals. Compensation amounts will depend on several factors, including the severity of hearing loss, the duration of the hearing loss, and the age of the plaintiff.
On average, settlement compensation for a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit may range from $140,000 to $350,000.
Understand that each case is distinct, and compensation amounts can fluctuate based on the specifics of each lawsuit. If you think you have a valid claim, consulting a Tepezza attorney will be invaluable in navigating the legal process and boosting your chances of receiving deserved compensation.
Factors Affecting Compensation Amounts
Several factors can influence the amount of compensation awarded in a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit. The severity of hearing loss is a significant factor, as the more severe the hearing loss, the higher the compensation amount could be. The duration of hearing loss is also an essential factor, as longer-lasting hearing loss can lead to higher compensation amounts.
Another factor that can impact compensation amounts is the age of the plaintiff. Generally, younger plaintiffs may receive higher compensation amounts. Consulting an informed attorney to ascertain the potential compensation amount in your specific case and how these factors can impact your claim is vital.
Who Qualifies to File an Oregon Tepezza Lawsuit?
Individuals who have experienced hearing loss after using Tepezza or believe their hearing problems may be related to the medication qualify to file an Oregon Tepezza lawsuit.
Consulting with an experienced attorney is the best way to determine if you have a valid claim and are eligible to file an Oregon Tepezza lawsuit.
Filing an Oregon Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
To file a Tepezza lawsuit in Oregon, the first step is to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who specializes in pharmaceutical litigation. They can help you with the following steps:
- Gather the necessary evidence
- Submit the lawsuit
- Negotiate a settlement
- Gather further proof to support your claim
A Tepezza law firm can handle your lawsuit and work diligently to secure the maximum settlement amount for your case.
By working with an experienced legal team, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other costs related to your permanent hearing loss.
Gathering Evidence and Medical Records
Gathering evidence and medical records that back your claim is pivotal to filing a successful Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit. Your medical records can prove that you were given the mentioned drug. They also suggest that your permanent hearing loss is not a consequence of any other medical condition.
Furthermore, expert opinions linking Tepezza to your permanent hearing loss can help strengthen your case.
By working with an attorney who specializes in pharmaceutical litigation, you can ensure that all relevant evidence is collected and presented compellingly. This evidence will be crucial in proving your case and obtaining the compensation you deserve for your hearing loss.
Statute of Limitations in Oregon
In Oregon, the statute of limitations varies for different legal actions – three years for felonies, two years for misdemeanors, and six months for violations. Awareness of these time limits is crucial when contemplating filing a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit because failing to file within the stipulated period can lead to case dismissal.
If you think you have a valid Tepezza hearing loss claim, it’s imperative to consult with an experienced attorney promptly to ensure you file within the statute of limitations. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.
FAQs
Who can file a Tepezza lawsuit in Oregon?
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 drugs lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get Your Free Consultation From Oregon Tepezza Lawyers
Schmidt and Clark, LLP are here to provide unwavering assistance when you need it most. If you or someone dear to you has encountered hearing impairment or reported suffering hearing loss associated with Tepezza, please reach out to us without hesitation. Our team brings extensive expertise in handling such cases and will stand by your side throughout the entire process.
You have every right to understand your legal standing and the potential for a lawsuit. We Ournsultations come at no cost, and you won’t bear any financial burdens unless we successfully secure a favorable outcome for your case.
Get in touch with Schmidt and Clark today for a comprehensive case evaluation, and let us be your trusted companion on this legal journey.
Reference:
- https://www.tepezza.com/about-tepezza/how-does-tepezza-work-on-thyroid-eye-disease
- https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420%2821%2900318-3/fulltext