Drug eluting stent safety being reviewed

Harvey Kirk

By Harvey Kirk
Posted October 26, 2006

ADD YOUR COMMENTS 9

Doctors and scientists are meeting this week in Washington, D.C. to review and debate the dangers of drug-eluting stents.  These cardiac stents are used to open clogged arteries.  However, cardiologists have begun to question the safety of these newer medicated stents, since recent studies have demonstrated that they increase the risk of potentially fatal blood clots when compared with older bare-metal stents.  The issues discussed in Washington will likely be a preview of public safety hearings the FDA will be holding in early December to decide what steps should be taken to protect the public.

>>RELATED POST (9/16/06): Drug coated stents may increase risk of stent thrombosis

Since drug coated stents were introduced in 2003, they have taken over the cardiac stent market, and currently account for nearly 85% of all heart stents used in the United States.  Although they cost nearly three times as much as prior bare-metal stents, studies have shown that they increase the risk of thrombosis, or blood clots, for years after the stents are implanted.

Our product liability lawyers have been following these developments closely since the announcement that we are investigating Plavix side effects lawsuits.  After drug-eluting stents are implanted, patients are often started on a course of Plavix.  In response to our announcement we have spoken with several individuals who received a medicated stent, took Plavix then had a heart attack or stroke. 

We are currently reviewing the studies and intend to post further information about the heart stent dangers over the next few days.  At this time, if someone has received a drug-coated stent and suffered a heart attack, stroke or serious blood clot over six months later, they should request a free consultation to determine if there may be potential claims for these injuries which may have been prevented with the use of cheaper older bare-metal stents.

9 Comments • Add Your Comments

  • Anna G. Fuller says:

    Drug eluting stent implanted January 2006; one per day Plavix. Interested in FDA findings. Thanks

    Posted on November 9, 2006 at 12:12 pm

  • Austin Kirk says:

    We are continuing to follow this matter closely and will be posting additional information regarding drug-coated stents and the different studies which have raised concerns. In addition, we will update this portion of our site if there are any announcements by the FDA following the anticipated hearings in December. To receive copies of news and updates by email, CLICK HERE.

    Our lawyers are currently reviewing potential claims for individuals who have received a drug-coated stent and suffered late stent thrombosis, resulting in a heart attack or additional medical procedure to unclog the artery. For individuals who have taken Plavix, we are investigating claims for those who suffered a heart attack, stroke, internal bleeding or ulcers.

    Hopefully you have not suffered any of those side effects. However, if you wish to review this matter further with our office, please request a consultation or call our office at (800) 522-0102.

    Posted on November 9, 2006 at 9:03 pm

  • Paul Fratiello says:

    I had two medicated stents installed in me on October 13, 2006
    I’ve been on Plavix since then and still am.
    I’m now very very worried that something is going to go wrong.
    Does anyone have any words of encouragement

    Posted on November 16, 2006 at 2:44 am

  • dan burnham says:

    hi paul

    i have 2 medicated stents too i have been on plavix since 2001 when i had 2 unmedicated stents put in which clogged up again may have been plavix that done it or not talk with your doctor for an alternative to the plavix.

    dan

    Posted on November 17, 2006 at 12:53 pm

  • Kathy Wagner says:

    Paul,
    Just pray to God that you will be one that it does not harm. My husband had several stents put in the last couple of years and he also is on PLAVIX. I would suggest talking with your heart doctor, I know we will be talking to my husbands doctor. What state do you live in? I wonder if that has anything to do with it. Most of my husbands was done in Arizona.

    Posted on November 17, 2006 at 4:17 pm

  • Harvey Kirk says:

    UPDATE: A new post was added today on this topic. A recent study has called into question whether there is any benefit for many patients who receive medicated stents days or weeks after a heart attack. Read more here…

    Posted on November 20, 2006 at 11:16 pm

  • Bill Nickersonj says:

    I had an attack and admitted unconcious to the hospital on 3/11/05. I had 2 stents installed and when discharged I was given a card which I am, supposed to carrfy with me at all times to show to any medical personnel who may be treating me.The card says Cordis and gives two bar codes and below the bar codes it states drug-eluting.
    I am 79 and have many aged related problems, but so far there are known that I could directly associate with the stents. But I do occasinally get a congested feeling in the chest which reminds me of the attack in 2005 and worries me. Last month, when I asked for a refill of my Plavix at the drug store, they gave me clopidogrel. I have a Dr appointment for next Monday
    What can I expect in the near and far future?

    Posted on November 30, 2006 at 3:02 pm

  • Austin Kirk says:

    Bill,

    Cordis is a Johnson and Johnson company which makes the Cypher drug-eluting stent. The recent concerns regarding drug eluting stents are over an increased risk of blood clots which can develop years after the stent is implanted. Experts have recommended that individuals remain monitored on a blood thinner to reduce the risk of these blood clots. It appears that you are taking a blood thinner, Plavix (generic clopidogrel).

    You should be aware that Plavix (clopidogrel) has been linked to side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, heart attacks and strokes. If you have concerns regarding those potential side effects, you should review that with your physician. You should NOT stop taking Plavix without first speaking with your doctor (especially since you have a drug-eluting stent). Stopping a blood thinner without proper medical follow up and direction could lead to serious harm.

    Our office is investigating potential lawsuits for injuries caused by drug eluting stents and/or Plavix. Fortunately, it sounds as if you have not been diagnosed with any injury as a result of these medical products. If you have any further questions regarding these legal claims, please do not hesitate to call our office toll free at (800) 522-0102 or request a claim evaluation.

    Posted on November 30, 2006 at 8:11 pm

  • Lilian Simmons says:

    I have had several TIA’S. In August of 2004 I had a stint put in the right side of my timple because of a clogged artry to the brain. I went last year to have to stint checked and the vein is clogged where the stint was inserted. I was told another vein has opened up and for me not to worry. I don’t understand why the stint was even put in if it wasn’t important. I have been on plavix and asprin every since 8-2004

    Posted on March 14, 2007 at 3:59 pm

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