Problems with Plavix have been reported among former users of the blood thinner, and lawsuits have been filed nationwide alleging that the drug makers knew about these risks, yet provided false and misleading information to the public and medical community.

Please note that the lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are no longer taking on new cases involving Plavix. The content on this page is provided for informational purposes only.

The manufacturers have encouraged physicians to prescribe Plavix to patients beyond the scope approved by the FDA. Plavix was promoted for use by anyone who had a risk factor for a heart attack or stroke, including those who are obese, suffer diabetes or smoke. However, lawsuits allege that in many cases use should have been limited to those who already suffered a stroke, heart attack, had peripheral vascular disease or acute coronary syndrome.

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are no longer reviewing new cases for individuals who have experienced problems with Plavix. Content provided on this website is for informational purposes, outlining allegations and claims raised by former users of Plavix.

PLAVIX STUDIES

Initial FDA approval was obtained in 1997 in a rare priority review. Although the medication received approval, many experts questioned the safety of Plavix and whether it case superior to Aspirin as promoted.

After it was introduced, several studies have been conducted regarding the use of Plavix to evaluate the use of the blood thinner. The results of some of these studies indicate that Plavix may not be any more effective than Aspirin for some users, and may actually increase the risk of serious injury.

Some of the findings from studies outlined in lawsuits filed against the drugmaker include:

  • Although Plavix cost nearly 100 times more per pill than Aspirin, it is no more effective at preventing heart attacks and strokes.
  • Off-label Plavix use in patients with no prior heart attack or stroke nearly doubles the risk of heart attacks, strokes, internal bleeding or death when compared to Aspirin.
  • Taking Aspirin plus a heart burn pill is more cost effective than taking a Plavix a day, and is less likely to result in stomach bleeds.
  • Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) occurs more frequently with Plavix. TTP is a rare, potentially fatal, drug reaction which impacts the skin.
  • Plavix is substantially more dangerous for patients with previously healed stomach ulcers. Although promotional materials have indicated that Plavix is safer on the stomach than Aspirin, for individuals with prior healed stomach ulcers, the combined use of Aspirin and Plavix results in a 12 times greater risk of recurring stomach bleeds than using Aspirin alone.

▸ INFORMATION: Plavix Side Effects

New cases are no longer being accepted by the lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A.