Drug eluting stent problems lead to sharp fall in sales over last year
Sales of drug eluting stents have fallen over the past year, following reports in October 2006 that the small devices could increase the risk of blood clots which develop months or even years after it is implanted. Doctors throughout the United States have not been as quick to implant the devices, and sales data released last month reflect the continuing concern in the medical community about problems caused by drug eluting stents.
>>INFORMATION: Drug eluting stent problems
Drug eluting stents were approved in the United States in 2003 and 2004. They quickly grew to replace bare metal stents as the top treatment choice for blocked arteries, accounting for over 90% of all stents implanted. By the end of 2006, over 6 million people worldwide had a drug coated stent placed inside of a previously clogged artery to prop it open, and approximately 130,000 stents were being implanted each month.
In October 2006, cardiologists began to question the safety of these newer stents, following studies which confirmed that they increase the risk of potentially fatal blood clots, which could lead to a heart attack or reclogging of the artery. In the months that followed, many doctors turned back to bare metal stents and use of drug eluting stents fell.
Earlier this year, in March 2007, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine further hurt stent sales, when researchers indicated that those with mild chest pains could safely delay implanting a stent to try treatment with drugs. Other studies indicated that heart bypass surgery may produce better long-term results and be a better option for heart patients.
According to data released last month by Goodroe Healthcare Solutions, LLC, fewer heart stents were implanted in June 2007, than in any other month in 2006. The Norcross, Georgia company surveyed 75 hospitals which implant heart stents, finding that all stent usage has fallen another 16% since January 2007.
Only two drug eluting stents are approved for sale in the United States, the Johnson & Johnson Cypher stent and the Boston Scientific Taxus Express stent. The second quarter earning reports for both companies demonstrate a sharp decline in the use of the drug coated devices.
Boston Scientific reported a 42% drop in sales of the Taxus heart stent from the same period a year ago, and Johnson & Johnson reported a 41% drop in U.S. sales of it Cypher heart stent. This data confirms the impact that several medical studies released late in 2006 had on stent sales.
DRUG ELUTING STENT LAWSUITS
Many heart patients who suffered a heart attack or reclogging of their artery as a result of drug eluting stent problems are pursing compensation from the manufacturers. Millions received a medicated stent without being warned of the potential long-term risk of deadly blood clots. The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are continuing to review drug eluting stent lawsuits nationwide.
If you, a friend or family member suffered a heart attack or reclogging of the artery after receiving a drug eluting heart stent, request a free claim evaluation.
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