Valsartan Class Actions & Individual Lawsuits
Valsartan lawsuits have been springing up across the country in relation to injuries allegedly caused by the drug used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. A valsartan class action lawsuit has been filed against several sellers and the manufacturer as well. If you or a loved one has developed cancer you suspect is a result of the use of valsartan (a/k/a Diovan), you should consult a valsartan lawsuit lawyer regarding your rights today. You may be entitled to legal compensation. Call us at 1-800-298-0111 for more information.
Why Was Valsartan Recalled?
On July 17, 2018, the FDA issued a press release announcing the voluntary recall of several drug products containing the active ingredient valsartan due to the discovery it contained N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a carcinogen. The American Cancer Association defines carcinogens as substances and exposures that can lead to cancer. At the time of the recall, over 1.5 million Americans were using valsartan daily.
What is Valsartan?
Valsartan is an oral medication given to patients with high blood pressure, heart failure, or patients who have had a heart attack. It is a generic version of the medicine Diovan. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist; which is a class of medication that works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten the blood vessels, ultimately relaxing the blood vessels and putting less strain on the heart.
What is NDMA?
N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is a byproduct of many industrial manufacturing processes including the manufacturing of unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH), which is a component of rocket fuel that requires NDMA for its synthesis. It is classified as a B2 carcinogen–meaning it is known to cause cancer in animals and a probable cause of cancer in humans. Trace amounts can be found in some foods such as bacon. However, trace amounts are not believed to be harmful.
How Did NDMA Get into Valsartan?
It is believed that around 2012, the synthesis process used by generic manufacturers was updated and that this change resulted in a side-reaction occurring that resulted in elevated levels of NDMA being produced. Novartis was the original manufacturer and patent holder for valsartan. They also obtained FDA approval for their processes. After the patent expires on a drug, other companies can make generic versions. NDMA can arise as a byproduct of the body’s breaking down of certain drugs/chemicals in the stomach.
What Injuries Can Valsartan Cause?
The link between valsartan and several types of cancer and organ damage is under investigation. This list of potential damage includes:
- Liver Injury & Failure
- Stomach Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Kidney Injury
- Colorectal Cancer
- Bowel Cancer
If you have taken valsartan for an extended period of time and then been diagnosed with any of those types of cancer or liver or kidney damage, you may have a claim for compensation.
Who Manufactured Valsartan?
Valsartan was made primarily by Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceuticals (ZHP) of China and secondarily by Hetero Labs of India. Other smaller manufacturers and distributors of the drug include:
- A-S Medication Solutions LLC
- AvKARE
- Bryant Ranch Prepack Inc.
- Camber Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
- H J Harkins Company Inc. dba Pharma Pac
- Major Pharmaceuticals
- Northwind Pharmaceuticals
- NuCare Pharmaceuticals Inc.
- Preferred Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
- Prinston Pharmaceuticals
- RemedyRepack Inc.
- Solco Healthcare
- Teva Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd.
- Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Valsartan Lawsuits Over Injury Claims
Currently, there have been numerous Valsartan lawsuits filed across the country alleging that valsartan caused a patient’s cancer or liver damage. The Federal lawsuits have been consolidated into MDL 19-2875 in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey Camden Vicinage before Judge Robert B. Kugler. Call Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. to get connected with an attorney investigating valsartan today if you have been diagnosed with lung, liver, or kidney cancer after prolonged use of valsartan.
Warning: Do not stop taking a prescribed medication without first consulting a physician.