Ardoin & Associates fights for maximum compensation in Raptiva pharmaceutical cases. Call our helpful professionals at (877) 701-0222 or contact us online to discuss your legal rights and options.

Raptiva is a prescription drug manufactured by Genetech that was approved by the FDA in 2003. Raptiva suppresses a cell which is part of the immune system to curb psoriasis. The negative side effect of Raptiva is linked to the fact that suppressing such cells increases a patient's susceptibility to infections.

Raptiva's Negative Side Effects

In October of 2008, Raptiva was required to have a 'black-box' warning –the strongest warning issued by the FDA- due to a link with Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but serious viral disease that is present, but inactive, in most adults but could be triggered if the immune system is seriously weakened. PML is caused by a virus that affects the central nervous system and leads to an irreversible decline in neurological function and even death. There is no known cure for PML.

PML symptoms may include unusual weakness, loss of coordination, changes in vision, difficulty speaking, and personality changes.

According to a public health advisory issued in February of 2009 by the FDA, there have been three confirmed and one possible case of PML in people taking Raptiva; three of those people have died. All four people had been taking Raptiva for more than three years; Raptiva was the only immunosuppressant drug they were taking.

Genetech announced in April of 2009 the voluntary phased withdrawal of Raptiva from the U.S. market. Patients who have used Raptiva are at risk of life-threatening infections that may lead to hospitalization or even death.

If you or someone you love has taken Raptiva, you may be at risk and may be entitled to compensation. Call our helpful professionals at (877) 701-0222 or contact us online to discuss your legal rights and options. We can walk you through each step of the process of getting the compensation rightfully owed you.