Tepezza, a drug prescribed for thyroid eye disease, is now the focus of a growing number of lawsuits from patients who have suffered permanent hearing loss or tinnitus after using it. Allegations against Horizon Therapeutics, the maker of Tepezza, center around claims that they failed to properly warn about the medication’s risks.
What are the details of these legal challenges, and what does this mean for those affected? This article will delve into the Wisconsin Tepezza lawsuits, examining the key issues at stake and the potential for compensation.
Read more to discover how these cases could impact you or a loved one and learn how Schmidt & Clark, LLP, can assist you in seeking justice and compensation for Tepezza-related hearing loss.
Table Of Contents
- Wisconsin Tepezza Lawsuits
- What Is Tepezza?
- Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
- Potential Settlements and Compensation in Wisconsin Tepezza Lawsuits
- Who Qualifies to File a Wisconsin Tepezza Lawsuit?
- Filing a Wisconsin Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
- FAQs
- Get Your Free Consultation From Wisconsin Tepezza Lawyers
Wisconsin Tepezza Lawsuits
Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits are product liability cases filed against Horizon Therapeutics. These cases have been initiated by patients who have experienced Tepezza-related hearing loss or tinnitus after receiving Tepezza injections.
These lawsuits are still ongoing and continue to attract attention, especially in Wisconsin, where numerous affected patients are seeking compensation for the harm caused by the drug.
These lawsuits are based on the allegation that Horizon Therapeutics did not sufficiently alert patients and healthcare providers to the hearing damage risk tied to Tepezza treatments.
In addition, the lack of sufficient information on the drug’s label has raised concerns among patients and their families, leading to an increasing number of Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits and the potential for a Tepezza class action lawsuit.
Plaintiffs’ Claims and Horizon’s Defense
Those filing Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits contend that Horizon Therapeutics failed to warn about the possibility of irreversible hearing damage from the drug.
They also claim that the company failed to advise doctors to monitor their patients’ hearing during Tepezza infusions and did not conduct adequate testing before obtaining FDA approval for the drug.
In response to the plaintiffs’ claims, Horizon submitted a Motion to Dismiss in both cases, arguing that the plaintiff’s failure to warn claims should be rejected due to the federal preemption doctrine. However, if new risk evidence emerges, federal law and FDA regulations allow drug companies to update their warning labels without needing FDA approval.
What Is Tepezza?
Tepezza is an injectable prescription medication specifically designed to treat thyroid eye disease (TED), a condition often associated with Graves disease [1]. TED is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the eyes, causing symptoms such as bulging eyes, double vision, and eye pain.
Despite Tepezza’s FDA approval for treating this condition, its usage has been associated with a number of side effects, notably hearing loss and tinnitus.
What Are The Tepezza Side Effects & Hearing Loss?
The Tepezza side effects and hearing loss are critical concerns highlighted in its warning label, which cautions about the potential for severe and possibly permanent hearing impairments.
Despite Horizon Therapeutics’ assertion that most Tepezza users do not experience hearing issues, the company acknowledges that about 10% of patients reported hearing-related events during their monitoring from January 2020 to August 2021.
This ongoing risk of permanent hearing damage underscores the need for vigilance and further investigation into Tepezza’s safety.
Does Tepezza Cause Hearing Problems?
Tepezza does cause hearing problems. Newer studies suggest that Horizon Therapeutics might have downplayed the likelihood and severity of hearing damage resulting from Tepezza.
In a 2022 study, it was found that while hearing loss symptoms generally improved over time, most patients who experienced hearing impairment without other symptoms, such as ringing in the ears or autophony, reported persistent subjective hearing loss at the last follow-up. This could potentially indicate a risk of worsening sensorineural hearing loss in some cases [2].
65% of patients taking Tepezza experienced hearing loss or tinnitus. – The Endocrine Society
Medical literature suggests that insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), a key component of Tepezza, plays a significant role in hearing, and low levels of IGF-I are linked to hearing loss [3]. This connection between IGF-I and hearing loss further supports the claims that Tepezza may carry a higher risk of causing hearing problems.
Potential Settlements and Compensation in Wisconsin Tepezza Lawsuits
Patients pursuing Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits could qualify for settlement amounts and compensation tailored to their cases. The estimated average settlement compensation for a successful Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit is typically between $140,000 and $350,000.
However, the actual compensation awarded may vary depending on various factors, including the severity of the hearing loss or tinnitus, the duration of the injury, and the medical expenses incurred.
Factors Influencing Settlement Amounts
Several factors can influence the settlement amounts in Tepezza hearing loss lawsuits. Some of these factors include:
- The severity of the patient’s harm, with more serious injuries generally resulting in higher settlement amounts
- The duration of the injury
- The medical expenses incurred
- The impact of the hearing loss or tinnitus on the patient’s quality of life
Who Qualifies to File a Wisconsin Tepezza Lawsuit?
An individual who has taken Tepezza and suffered from unrelenting or permanent hearing loss qualifies to file a Wisconsin Tepezza lawsuit. Potential plaintiffs must collate all required evidence and documentation, encompassing medical records, prescription records, and any other documents that corroborate Tepezza’s usage and the ensuing hearing loss.
Suppose you believe you have a case. In that case, it is recommended that you consult with experienced Tepezza lawyers to assess your eligibility and guide you through the legal process to file a Tepezza lawsuit.
Filing a Wisconsin Tepezza Hearing Loss Lawsuit
Filing a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit in Wisconsin involves several steps, including gathering evidence, assessing damages, and submitting a complaint to the appropriate court. An experienced dangerous drug attorney can help you navigate these steps and guide you through the civil lawsuit process.
Securing a lawyer with prior experience in handling Tepezza lawsuits is vital to guarantee appropriate representation of your case.
Evidence and Documentation Required
To file a Wisconsin Tepezza lawsuit, you will need to provide various forms of evidence and documentation. This includes:
- Medical records that show you used Tepezza and experienced the side effects
- Testimony from medical professionals or experts
- Documentation of your damages
- Proof of Tepezza use
A consultation with an attorney is recommended to ascertain that you possess all the required documentation to substantiate your case.
Statute of Limitations for Wisconsin Tepezza Lawsuits
The statute of limitations for filing a Tepezza hearing loss lawsuit in Wisconsin is two years from the date of injury or diagnosis. If the statute of limitations is not met, the plaintiff may be prevented from filing a lawsuit.
FAQs
Can I join a Tepezza lawsuit if I used it years ago?
Yes, you may still be eligible to file a lawsuit depending on the statute of limitations and your diagnosis timeline. Consult a lawyer to evaluate your case.
What evidence is needed for a Tepezza lawsuit?
Evidence includes medical records, proof of Tepezza use, expert testimonies, and studies linking Tepezza to the adverse side effects experienced.
Have there been any settlements for Tepezza lawsuits?
Some cases may settle out of court. Your lawyer can provide guidance on the likelihood and process of settlement based on your specific situation.
Can I sue if I experienced minor side effects from Tepezza?
Lawsuits are typically filed for serious side effects. Consult a lawyer to discuss whether your side effects warrant legal action.
See all related dangerous drugs lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get Your Free Consultation From Wisconsin Tepezza Lawyers
At Schmidt and Clark, LLP we stand by you during your time of need. If you or a loved one has suffered hearing loss from Tepezza, please reach out to us without hesitation. Our legal team has extensive experience in handling such cases and will be there to support you every step of the way.
It would be best if you were well-informed about your legal rights and potential eligibility for a lawsuit. Rest assured, our consultations are always free of charge, and you won’t have any financial obligations unless we secure a favorable outcome for your Tepezza hearing loss case. We are dedicated to serving you with the same care and commitment we would offer to our own families.
Get in touch 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/about-tepezza/how-to-take-tepezza-for-thyroid-eye-disease
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9058351/
- https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml