Assisting Those Who Have Suffered Kidney Disease After Taking Nexium, Prevacid or Prilosec

Many people are either prescribed or simply purchase proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to relieve their symptoms of heartburn or other stomach acid-related health problems.

However, recently published studies suggest that these consumers may have been exposed to an increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease as a result of their PPI use.

If you or a loved one has developed chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure after taking commonly sold proton pump inhibitors such as Nexium, Prevacid or Prilosec, you owe it to yourself and your family to learn more about your legal rights and options. The Driscoll Firm, LLC, can help you.

Our firm has an extensive background in investigating and litigating cases involving harmful pharmaceutical products. We have served in key leadership roles in many nationally litigated product liability cases and other complex civil litigation, reflecting the depth of our experience and record of success. We are ready to put our skills and knowledge to work for you.

We are now reviewing cases from across the country involving suspected kidney problems related to PPI use. Contact us today and receive a free case review.

What Are Proton Pump Inhibitors?

Proton pump inhibitors are drugs that block the production of acid made by glands in the lining of your stomach. They are used for the prevention and treatment of a wide range of acid-related conditions such as:

• Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or “heartburn.”
• Peptic or stomach ulcers
• Damage to the lower esophagus caused by acid reflux.

The Stanford School of Medicine reports that PPIs are among the most widely prescribed medications in the country, with an estimated 100 million PPI prescriptions being issued each year. PPI manufacturers enjoy an estimated $14 billion in annual sales.

Among the most popular PPIs are:

Brand name	Generic Name	Manufacturer
Nexium	esomeprazole	AstraZeneca
Prevacid	iansoprazole	Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Prilosec	omeprazole	AstraZeneca

 

Versions of these drugs can also be purchased over the counter such as Prilosec OTC and Prevacid 24HR.

A major concern of medical researchers is that many people take proton pump inhibitors with a clear medical diagnosis and continue using them long after the need has passed. Research indicates that people can stop using PPIs without suffering any adverse effects on their health.

What Problems Are Associated with PPIs?

Although millions of Americans use PPIs for the treatment and prevention of heartburn and similar health issues, new research shows that these drugs may heighten their risk of developing serious kidney problems.

A study published in 2016 in JAMA Internal Medicine analyzed nearly 11,000 individuals and found PPI connected to a significantly higher risk of chronic kidney disease. In fact, the study’s lead author indicated that the risk could be as much as a 20 to 50 percent higher.

Additionally, the study found that the risk of developing CKD was greater among those who received two PPI dosages per day than those who received only one.

If you or a loved one has used Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec or other proton pump inhibitors for an extended period of time, you should pay close attention to any signs of chronic kidney disease. The symptoms tend to develop over time and may include:

• Changes in urination
• Swelling
• Skin rash or itching
• Fatigue
• Metallic taste in the mouth

• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling cold
• Shortness of breath
• Leg or flank pain

Those who are diagnosed with CKD or kidney failure may experience tremendous pain and suffering. They may also require extensive medical treatment, ranging from having to take additional medications to undergoing dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Research shows that many other serious side effects are associated with proton pump inhibitors, including:

• Increased risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction)
• Greater risk of bone fractures, including hip fractures

• Infections
• Rebound acid effect, which is akin to becoming dependent on the drugs.

Additionally, as National Public Radio reports, German researchers have found that “regular PPI users” may face as high as a 44 percent increased risk of developing dementia when compared to non-users.

Harmed by a Proton Pump Inhibitor? What Are Your Legal Options?

If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered chronic kidney disease or other harm after using proton pump inhibitors, you should contact The Driscoll Firm to discuss your case.

We provide free consultations that are aimed at reviewing the facts of your case and explaining the legal options available to you.

Those options may include filing a legal claim in a state or federal court on either an individual basis or as part of a class-action claim.

A claim may allege that the manufacturer of the PPI involved in your case should be held liable based on:

• The defective design of the drug
• Failure to properly warn about risks associated with the drug.

The amount of damages sought in a defective drug case will depend on the nature and extent of the harm you have suffered.

A claim may seek compensation for medical expenses, which can be high when treating chronic kidney disease, as well as for lost income, pain and suffering and more.

As a law firm that has worked with thousands of clients across the country in dangerous pharmaceutical product cases, The Driscoll Firm will know how to investigate your case as well as to how to ensure your rights and interests are protected if your case becomes part of wider national litigation.

Our Lawyers Are Reviewing Nexium, Prevacid and Prilosec Chronic Kidney Disease Claims

It is important to take legal action if believe that you have suffered harm due to your use of proton pump inhibitor to treat heartburn or a similar condition. You may have the right to be compensated for all physical, emotional and financial harm that you have suffered.

Get started today. Call The Driscoll Firm or reach us online to receive a timely, free and confidential review of your case.