FDA & Prescription Drugs | InjuryBoard Miami

This morning I ran across an editorial about the recent Vioxx settlement that did a great job pointing out the need for reform in the pharmaceutical industry as well as specific areas where reform is needed. Merck announced a few weeks ago that it would settle Vioxx lawsuits for $4.8 billion. The list of necessary reforms is long. The Prescription Drug User Fee Act passed by Congress in 1992...

The popular drug used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, Zelnorm, was pulled from the market Friday by Novartis, the drug's manufacturer. Zelnorm has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and the FDA recommended Novartis recall the drug.It was the second drug recall in two days. Pergolide, a Parkinson's medicine originally sold by Eli Lilly as Permax and now in generic...

The FDA warned of two more drugs being sold primarily on the Internet, Brazilian herbal supplements containing controlled substances that could cause "serious injury or side effects." The two dangerous supplements are called Herbathin and Emagrace Slim. Both manufactured by Fitoterapicos (also spelled Fytoterapicos) and Phytotherm Sim.In the FDA warning, the FDA said that dieters should avoid...

FDA is warning users of the popular Ortho Evra birth control patch that they are being exposed to more hormones, and are therefore at a higher risk of blood clots and other serious side effects. Consumer groups and some obstetricians are recommending patients stop using the patch and get new forms of birth control. Attorneys have already fimed many Ortho Evra lawsuit, and those same lawyers say...