Digitek recall letters being sent by pharmacies
Following last weeks Digitek recall, people are receiving phone calls and pharmacy letters notifying them that their heart drug may be unsafe. All lots of the Digitek, a generic form of digoxin, were removed from shelves after it was discovered that some tablets could contain twice the appropriate amount of the active drug. This could increase the risk of digitalis toxicity, a serious and potentially fatal illness. In an unusual move, pharmacists are being required to attempt to notify all customers who filled a prescription.
>>FDA LINK: Generic Digoxin Recall
Digitek is prescribed for heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms. It is a form of digitalis, which is a chemical that has been used as a heart medicine for over 200 years. However, the double strength digoxin tablets potentially sold over the past few years could lead to digitalis toxicity for individuals with kidney failure or renal insufficiencies.
Digitalis toxicity is a severe illness that can be fatal in some cases. It is associated with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, vision problems, low blood pressure, slow heart beat and death. Reports indicate that the manufacturer of Digitek received complaints involving the digoxin side effect as early as 2006, raising questions about why the Digitek recall was not issued earlier.
DIGITEK PHARMACY LETTERS AND PHONE CALLS
Although prescription medication recalls are not uncommon, it is rare for individuals who filled the prescriptions to be personally notified that their drug may be unsafe. Given the substantial risk of serious injury or death associated with use of the recalled Digitek, pharmacists have been asked to directly contact customers. Many pharmacies are reaching out to any individuals who had a prescription filled within the past 12 months.
The lawyers at Saiontz, Kirk & Miles, P.A. have been reviewing potential Digitek lawsuits since the recall was announced. Several of the individuals who contacted our office have already received phone calls or pharmacy letters. They are being advised to return any unused Digitek pills and to contact their physicians about health concerns.
DIGITEK RECALL CLAIM EVALUATIONS
Individuals who suffered from digitalis toxicity after taking Digitek could be entitled to financial compensation. Potentially toxic levels of digitalis were provided in pills that were prescribed to help improve health. If you, a friend or family member have suffered digitalis problems, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.
