Prevacid Lawsuit for Popular Heartburn Medications
Millions of people who take heartburn and gastric reflux medications are now experiencing increased risk of chronic kidney damage. Nearly 15 million people in the United States use Prevacid (Lansoprazole), Prilosec and Prilosec OTC (ompeprazole), Protonix (Pantoprazole), Aciphex (Rabeprazole), and Nexium (esopeprazole). These medications known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are designed to reduce the overproduction of stomach acid that leads to acid reflux and heartburn.
Study Reveals Potential for Extreme Kidney Damage
A recent Journal of Medical Association (JAMA) and Journal of American Society of Nephrologists (JASN) study collected information for five years from the Department of Veterans Affairs’ national database of new PPI users and compared them to those who use H-2 blockers instead to compare renal outcomes. None of the participants had kidney damage before the study began. The data revealed that these medications increased the risk of acute interstitial nephritis, a condition that inflames the spaces between the renal tubes. This can lead to kidney infections and toxicity. Prolonged use of these medications shown increased risk of chronic kidney damage, kidney damage as well as kidney failure that results in dialysis or death, which is the basis for a Prevacid lawsuit.
The study determined that 15% of people who used these medications were diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in comparison to those that used h2 blockers at just 11%. The PPI group studied were 96% more likely to develop end stage renal disease than the H2 blocker group was. This is the last stage of kidney disease where the kidneys can no longer function at all.
PPIs Can Cause Blockage of Absorption and Production of Vitamins
While it has been believed that PPIs are safe, new data from Kent and Canterbury Hospital shows otherwise. It has been discovered that these PPIs can block the absorption and production of necessary vitamins in the body including B12, magnesium and iron. There is also ongoing research being conduction on these medications’ effects on bone density.
Unfortunately, symptoms such as heartburn or acid reflux may continue after trying to stop taking these medications. However, their long-term effects do not outweigh the risk of kidney damage or renal failure. Ultimately, many medical professionals have determined that many patients should have never been prescribed these medications at all. If you or a loved one have suffered kidney damage, from chronic kidney disease or renal failure due to taking these PPIs, contact a professional lawyer today as you deserve compensation for your pain and suffering. A legal professional can help you navigate through the legal process with a Prevacid lawsuit.
