Rituxan Lawsuit

Side effects of Ritxan may result in the development of a rare, but often-fatal brain infection known as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). At least 57 Rituxan PML brain infection cases have been reported, with a 90% fatality rate. 

STATUS OF RITUXAN LAWSUITS: The potential for lawsuits over Rituxan are being investigated by PML brain infection lawyers, on behalf of individuals who have been diagnosed with the condition.

>>REVIEW A POTENTIAL RITUXAN LAWSUIT WITH A LAWYER<<

MANUFACTURER: Genentech and Biogen IDEC

OVERVIEW: Rituxan is the brand-name for the chimeric monoclonal antibody drug Rituximab. It is a powerful immunosuppressant that is mainly used for treatment of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, but has also been prescribed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and lupus. The drug sales totaled about $2.3 billion in 2007.

The FDA approved Rituxan in 1997.

RITUXAN BRAIN INFECTION SIDE EFFECTS: Warnings were placed on the label in 2006 about potential Rituxan side effects which could cause several viral infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. In 2007, the FDA warned that two people died after using Rituxan for lupus treatment, which is not an approved use.

In September 2008, the FDA notified oncologists, rheumatologists and other healthcare providers about additional cases of the Rituxan PML brain infection, further updating the prescription information about the risk.

A study published in the medical journal Blood in May 2009, indicated that at least 57 reports have been identified of Rituxan PML brain infections. This raises major concerns that given the exanding uses that Rituxan is being prescribed for.

PROGRESSIVE MULTIFOCAL LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY: Commonly referred to as PML, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is caused by a polyomavirus called the JC virus.

The brain disease affects the central nervous system, causing progressive damage or inflammation of the white matter of the brain at multiple locations, resulting in sympmtoms like:

• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• Speech difficulties
• Movement problems
• Dizziness
• Loss of balance

There is no known cure for PML brain infections and they often result in death. According the May 2009 study published in the medical journal Blood, the fatality rate among Rituxan PML cases diagnosed within three months of the last dose was 100% and 84% among those who were diagnosed with PML more than three months after the last dose, resulting in an overall Rituxan PML fatality rate of 90%.