Xeljanz® and Xeljanz XR are prescription arthritis medications made by Pfizer®, the pharmaceutical giant. Xeljanz® and its extended-release counterpart (XR) were initially developed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ulcerative colitis.
The drug belongs to a class of drugs known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which are designed to lower activity in a patient’s immune system.
How the Xeljanz® Lawsuit Started
An FDA safety communication stated that patients taking Xeljanz® or Xeljanz® XR may be at an increased risk for deadly blood clots in the lungs, which is commonly referred to pulmonary embolism. Other health risks found to be associated with Xeljanz® include pulmonary thrombosis and stroke.
After being approved by the FDA in 2012, the FDA released a safety notice regarding Xeljanz® in February 2019. The FDA cited increased risks of deadly blot clots throughout the body, with the most common types of clots including pulmonary embolisms and deep vein thrombosis.
From 2013 to 2018, the FDA received multiple reports of the side effects attached to Xeljanz®. 15 of those patients had died.
Side Effects of Xeljanz®
Xeljanz® poses a serious risk to many patients. Some of the more common signs of pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis may include:
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest or back pain
- Coughing up blood
- Swelling and discoloration of the skin
- Pain in lower limbs
- Severe sweating and clammy skin
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, speak to your doctor or medical professional immediately.
Pfizer’s® own post-marketing study soon found that those who took Xeljanz® under certain conditions had an increased risk of pulmonary embolism and death.
Final Note
If you or a loved one have taken Xeljanz® or Xeljanz XR®, you may be entitled to financial compensation. To learn more, get a free consultation by visiting our website here.