The Tepezza lawsuits in Tennessee revolve around the accusation that Horizon failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers of the potential risk of permanent hearing damage associated with using Tepezza.
This article delves into the ongoing legal battles, examines the nature of Tepezza and its side effects, and outlines potential compensation avenues for those affected by Tepezza-induced hearing loss.
Should you or a family member have had Tepezza-related hearing loss, the devoted professionals at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, are ready to assist. As a nationally renowned legal firm with expertise in representing plaintiffs, our main aim is to secure the justice and compensation you rightfully merit.
Table Of Contents
- Tennessee Tepezza Lawsuits
- What Is Tepezza?
- Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
- Potential Settlements and Compensation in Tennessee Tepezza Lawsuits
- Who Qualifies to File a Tennessee Tepezza Lawsuit?
- Filing a Tennessee Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
- FAQs
- Get Your Free Case Evaluation From Tennessee Tepezza Lawyers
Tennessee Tepezza Lawsuits
The main issue in the Tennessee Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit is that Horizon Therapeutics allegedly failed to provide enough warning about the potential risk of permanent hearing damage associated with using its drug Tepezza.
Plaintiffs argue that Horizon prioritized profits over patient safety and did not alert treating doctors to the need to closely monitor their patients’ hearing throughout the series of Tepezza infusions.
Victims who suffered permanent hearing loss or tinnitus due to Tepezza-related hearing loss may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, if they can prove that Horizon failed to warn them of the potential risks adequately.
Plaintiffs’ Claims and Horizon’s Defense
Plaintiffs in the Tepezza lawsuits argue that Horizon Therapeutics was aware of the potential risks associated with the drug. They allege the company put profits ahead of patient safety. They are accusing Horizon of:
- Not having provided sufficient warnings about the potential for permanent hearing damage due to Tepezza’s use.
- According to their pre- and post-market research, there is a very strong correlation between the drug and auditory impairment.
- Horizon didn’t perform sufficient testing on the medication prior to FDA approval.
- Misrepresented the scope of individuals who would benefit from the use of the medication as widespread when, in fact, the number of individuals with TED is quite small.
In response to these allegations, Horizon Therapeutics is denying that hearing loss and tinnitus are side effects of the drug; therefore, it filed a Motion to Dismiss. This legal document argues that the plaintiffs’ claims should be dismissed due to the federal preemption doctrine.
This defense strategy aims to protect the drug manufacturer from liability by arguing that federal law preempts state law in this case.
The outcome of these lawsuits will depend on the strength of the plaintiff’s claims and the effectiveness of Horizon’s defense strategies. As the cases progress, we will gain more insight into the legal arguments and evidence presented by both sides.
Recent Developments in Tennessee Tepezza Lawsuits
Tepezza users who have suffered hearing loss after receiving Tepezza injections are filing lawsuits against Horizon Therapeutics, the manufacturer of Tepezza.
The purpose of the preliminary status hearing in the Tepezza multidistrict litigation (MDL) is to manage the discovery process and set a timeline for gathering evidence from patients who reported suffering hearing loss after using Tepezza.
Judge Durkin is set to oversee the October 25, 2023, status conference in the Tepezza MDL. At this conference, we can expect the judge to:
- Give his opinion on electronic discovery protocols
- Address any preliminary disagreements between the parties about discovery rules
- Provide information about the need for hearing aids for patients affected by Tepezza
What Is Tepezza?
Tepezza is a medication used to treat thyroid eye disease (TED). It works by reducing inflammation in the muscles and tissue that control eyesight [1]. TED is a rare autoimmune disorder that can cause severe inflammation, redness, and swelling in the tissues and muscles of the eye. This often results in:
- Double vision
- Eye pain
- Bulging eyes
- Dry eyes
- Difficulty closing the eyes
Tepezza is administered by intravenous (IV) infusion, with a treatment course that takes several weeks to complete.
Tepezza is known to be a pricey drug, making it a significant investment for patients taking Tepezza seeking relief from the symptoms of TED.
However, the potential hearing loss and tinnitus side effects associated with Tepezza have raised concerns about its safety and efficacy. A more detailed examination of these side effects follows.
Tepezza Side Effects & Hearing Loss
While Tepezza is designed to treat the symptoms of thyroid eye disease, it has been associated with some concerning side effects, such as hearing loss and tinnitus. These auditory issues have led to numerous Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits filed against Horizon Therapeutics.
Studies have shown that:
- Hearing loss and tinnitus are more common in Tepezza users than initially thought.
- A 2022 study even found that the drug could be linked to permanent hearing loss ranging from mild to severe.
Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
Tepezza does cause hearing problems. There is substantial evidence linking Tepezza to hearing loss and tinnitus [2].
Research has shown that:
- Low insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I), which Tepezza targets, plays a significant role in hearing.
- Low IGF-I levels are linked to hearing loss.
- Approximately two-thirds of patients receiving Tepezza treatments experienced hearing damage after around three treatments.
These findings suggest that Tepezza is associated with hearing damage.
Recent studies have shown that hearing loss and tinnitus are more common in Tepezza users than initially thought. Given this evidence, patients contemplating Tepezza treatment should weigh the potential risks against the possible benefits.
Potential Settlements and Compensation in Tennessee Tepezza Lawsuits
Victims of hearing loss caused by Tepezza may be eligible for financial compensation. Filing a hearing loss lawsuit is one way to pursue compensatory damages.
Tepezza-induced hearing damage is more common and more persistent than initially believed, affecting about 65% of patients who received Tepezza infusions. – The Endocrine Society Journal
The amount of compensation a plaintiff may receive depends on various factors, such as the severity of the hearing loss, the impact on the plaintiff’s life, and the strength of the legal case.
If a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit is successful, the average settlement compensation could range from $140,000 to $350,000. This compensation is intended to cover economic and non-economic damages resulting from the hearing loss caused by Tepezza’s treatment.
Who Qualifies to File a Tennessee Tepezza Lawsuit?
An individual who must have experienced chronic tinnitus, partial hearing loss, or total deafness after taking Tepezza for thyroid eye disease qualifies to file a Tennessee Tepezza lawsuit.
If you meet these criteria, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your damages and should consider consulting with an experienced attorney to discuss your legal options.
Filing a Tennessee Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
To file a Tepezza lawsuit, you must secure legal representation with experience in handling such cases, especially when dealing with Tepezza hearing loss in Tennessee. A knowledgeable attorney can help you gather evidence, navigate the court system, and represent your interests in the litigation process.
You can choose to join a class action lawsuit or file an individual lawsuit, depending on your unique situation and the advice of your attorney.
A thorough understanding of potential compensation, settlement amounts, and the factors impacting the value of your case is vital when filing a Tepezza lawsuit. Consulting with a Tepezza lawyer and obtaining a free case evaluation to assess the level of hearing loss or tinnitus you have experienced is essential in building a strong case.
FAQs
Who can file a Tepezza lawsuit in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Yes, statutes of limitations apply and vary by state. In Tennessee, it’s important to consult with a lawyer promptly to avoid missing the deadline.
See all related dangerous drugs lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get Your Free Case Evaluation From Tennessee Tepezza Lawyers
At Schmidt and Clark, LLP we stand with you in your time of need. If you or a loved one has faced challenges related to Tepezza, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team boasts significant expertise in handling such cases and will be there to guide you throughout the entire process. You have every right to be well-informed about your legal rights and the potential for a lawsuit.
Importantly, our consultations are always provided free of charge, and you won’t have any financial obligations unless we secure a favorable outcome for your case. Reach out to Schmidt and Clark today for a comprehensive case evaluation. Let us be your reliable partner on this legal journey.
Reference:
- https://www.tepezza.com/about-tepezza/how-does-tepezza-work-on-thyroid-eye-disease
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9058351/